December 21, 2010

The Government of Japan has provided funds under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project Scheme（GGP） for “a Project for Environment Protection and Empowerment of Local People through Sustainable Development of Sago Palm Ecology”. The dedication ceremony of the Sago Learning Center, which is funded by GGP, was held on December 20, 2010 at Khok Saba sub-district, Na Yong district in Trang province. Mr. Seiji Kojima, Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Thailand, and Mr. Maitri Intusoot, the Governor of Trang, participated in this ceremony.

Sago palms grow naturally in Southeast Asia and Oceania. Starch extracted from sago stems has long been used as food; however, recently it has been attracting attention as a feedstock for biofuels. The leaves and branches are used for building materials and roofing materials; moreover, the firm fibers can also serve as ropes. The bark can be used as fuel; in addition, wood residues and strained lees of starch can be used as fertilizers and livestock.

The Sago palm is less susceptible to both pest damage and the impact of climate change as it is perennial. It grows with little or no fertilizer, and is well suited for infertile soils and wetlands. It is also safe for people and ecosystems; with fast growth and high absorption of carbon dioxide. It is said to contribute to reducing global warming.

In recent years, through the influences of agricultural modernization, industrialization, and the globalization, the traditional use of sago palm has decreased. These days, crops such as oil palm and natural rubber are extensively cultivated instead.

Income generation for farmers through effective use of Sago Palm, construction of the Sago learning center aiming at environmental restoration and protection through ecological restoration of Sago palm, as well as activities for deepening understanding and vocational training, have all been implemented through this project in the middle reaches of Pailin River in Na Kaosia sub-district and Khok Saba sub-district, Na Yong district, Trang Province.

Through this project, it is expected that local people and local governments will become aware of conserving Sago palms. Management and effective utilization of Sago palm for food security and income generation is expected to improve; also, sustainable ecological restoration of Sago palm will follow.

The Government of Japan is willing to consider providing further support to projects that contribute to social and economic development at grassroots level through the GGP scheme.