KOTA KINABALU: Sabah wants to achieve sustainable agricultural practices to maintain healthy watersheds and coastal areas, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan today.
"The United Nations defines the Blue Economy as one in which the sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources generates equitably and inclusively distributed benefits for people.
"It protects and restores healthy ocean ecosystems, builds resilience, and contributes to global ambitions for a sustainable future.
"The vision of a Blue Economy is not confined to marine resources but also encompasses agriculture's role in supporting and enhancing coastal and marine ecosystems.
"By prioritising environmentally friendly farming techniques, we can reduce runoff, prevent pollution and boost the health of our marine ecosystems."
He said this during the closing of Sabah International Blue Economy Conference here.
Kitingan, who is also the state agriculture, fisheries and food industry minister, said the discussions and initiatives from this conference had opened the door to important conversations about sustainable fisheries, renewable ocean energy, marine tourism and innovation in agriculture.
He added that Sabah was uniquely positioned to benefit from marine resources, such as seaweed and marine sponges, which can contribute to economic growth and health and pharmaceutical fields.
"Seaweed farming is a thriving industry in Sabah, with uses ranging from food products to biofuels.
"Marine sponges also hold significant promise in pharmaceutical research for developing new drugs and medical treatments.
"The 'tagal system', a community-based approach to river management, not only protects our rivers from overfishing and environmental degradation but also increases the incomes of communities."