TAMBUNAN: Integrated efforts in river conservation and rural economic development continue to be intensified with the launching of the Tagal Tradisi Programme in Kampung Pahu, here.
It was officiated by the Deputy Chief Minister cum State Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry (Maffi), Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, represented by the Department of Fisheries Sabah (DOFS) Director Datuk Azhar Kassim.
Jeffrey said the ‘tagal’ system is a prime example of how close cooperation between local communities, the Government and implementing agencies such as the Fisheries Department can yield positive results in natural resource management, particularly in inland fisheries.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});“This tagal system, which has been passed down through generations, has not only succeeded in conserving the freshwater fishery ecosystem, but is now being strengthened as a catalyst for food security and sustainable agro-tourism activities,” he said. His speech was delivered by Azhar.
Jeffrey emphasised that the system successfully educated the public to care for and preserve rivers and has increased awareness on the importance of conserving natural resources.
“This system holds significant potential to generate income for rural communities through a range of supplementary activities, including fish harvesting, recreational fishing, interacting with tame fish and nature-based tourism such as riverside camping.
“Active community involvement is the key to the successful implementation of this system,” he said.
He commended the spirit and commitment of the Kampung Pahu residents who have worked together to ensure the success of this initiative with the support of the DOFS.
“As a sign of support and encouragement for the Tagal community, the Government, through Maffi, also presented contributions to the village Tagal committee including signage, ice boxes and fishing equipment such as nets and cast nets,” he added.
Additionally, 10 Tagal communities that signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DOFS also received extra contributions in the form of chairs, fish feed, ice boxes and rubbish bins.
According to him, there are currently 91 registered tagal systems in the Tambunan district, with ten of them officially partnered with the Fisheries Department.
This reflects the success and effectiveness of the tagal system in sustainably managing fishery resources.
Jeffrey also emphasised that the State Government remains committed to strengthening the tagal system as part of Sabah’s sustainability agenda.
“I would like to extend my congratulations to DOFS and the residents of Kampung Pahu for their efforts in conserving rivers and developing the tagal system.
“This success proves that with solid cooperation and commitment, we are capable of managing river fisheries resources sustainably,” Jeffrey said.
The event also saw the officiating ceremony the tagal system, marking another step forward in empowering rural communities through tradition and innovation.
Also present were District Officer Sobitun Makajil, heads of departments, Native Chiefs, and members of the local community who showed up with strong spirit and commitment.