KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s traditional cuisine plays an important role in preserving cultural heritage while promoting sustainable living through kitchen garden practices, said Sabah Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.
He said many traditional Sabahan dishes are closely linked to the use of local produce and ingredients commonly grown in home gardens.
“Many of our traditional dishes use ingredients such as lemongrass, turmeric, chillies, pandan leaves, ulam, village vegetables, and various local herbs grown in home or kitchen gardens,” he said when officiating the 80 Sabahan Menus programme here today.
Jamawi said the programme was not merely about food, but also carried an important message on the importance of the Kitchen Garden Initiative in today’s society.
“In a time when the cost of living is becoming increasingly challenging, growing basic cooking ingredients at home is a very good and practical step,” he said.
He added that many traditional Sabahan dishes would not be complete without fresh ingredients from kitchen gardens, reflecting the close relationship between heritage food and nature.
Jamawi said efforts to encourage kitchen gardens, especially among younger generations, could help preserve traditional food heritage while promoting community agriculture and sustainable lifestyles.
He also described traditional food as more than just a meal.
“Traditional food is not merely a dish, but a story about the culture, customs, and identity of communities passed down through generations,” he said.
Jamawi added that the programme also served as a platform to promote Sabah’s gastronomic tourism in conjunction with Visit Sabah Year.
Also present were Assistant Minister Ruslan Muharam and Yusni Mohamad Ali.
Ends.
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