Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is taking an innovative step into “metal farming” through the use of unique hyperaccumulator plants that can extract nickel from the soil, a move described as a breakthrough in sustainable resource management.
The project, led by Botanickel Sabah Sdn. Bhd. in partnership with the State Government, was formalised on Friday with the signing of a Benefit-Sharing Agreement and the awarding of a Commercial Access Licence for biological resources.
State Secretary Datuk Seri Panglima Sr Safar Untong said the initiative demonstrates how agriculture and mineral resources can be integrated through advanced phytoextraction technology, turning Sabah’s biodiversity into a driver of green economic growth.
“This project not only optimises the State’s natural resources but also has the potential to generate renewable energy to supply local communities. It aligns with the Sabah Energy Roadmap and Master Plan 2040 in advancing sustainable green energy solutions,” Safar said in a speech delivered by Deputy State Secretary (Development) Datuk Ahemad Sade.
He added that the recently launched Sabah Biodiversity Strategy 2024–2034 and Sabah Biotechnology Action Blueprint 2024–2034 will guide the State to remain on the right path not only in biodiversity conservation but also in the planned, strategic and sustainable use of biological resources.
Safar said that the milestone achieved was the result of careful deliberation between the State Government, through a Technical Committee chaired by Natural Resources Secretary Datuk Sernam Singh and strategic partner Botanickel.
He also commended Botanickel’s professionalism and commitment in adhering to the guidelines set.
The landmark agreement represents the first since the 2017 amendment to the Sabah Biodiversity Enactment 2000, which incorporated Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) provisions in line with the Nagoya Protocol under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
The event was attended by French Honorary Consul Laurence Leizerovici, Sabah Biodiversity Centre Director Ken Kartina Khamis, Botanickel Chairman Dr Aurelien Buteri and Botanickel Managing Director Mohd Dehya Mahadin.
