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SDG16
PEACE, JUSTICE & STRONG INSTITUTIONS
16.3  Working with government
16.3.3   Participation in government research

Undertake policy-focused research in collaboration with government departments
No.
Description
Evidence
1.
UNIMAS Plays Key Role in Developing the Coconut Industry through Agro-Research Lab in Sebuyau

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) is set to play a pivotal role in the development of the coconut industry in Sarawak with the establishment of an innovative Agro-Research Lab in Sebuyau. The lab is part of a strategic initiative to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of the coconut sector, which is expected to play a significant role in driving the state's agricultural economy.

According to the project plans, the Agro-Research Lab will focus on advancing research, innovation, and best practices in coconut cultivation and processing. UNIMAS, with its expertise in agricultural sciences, research, and technology, will be at the forefront of this effort. The university’s involvement will include providing research-driven insights into improving coconut yields, developing new technologies for processing, and exploring sustainable farming practices that benefit local communities.

The collaboration between UNIMAS and the Sebuyau Agro-Research Lab will help equip farmers with the knowledge and tools to optimize coconut production while ensuring environmental sustainability. The project aims to boost the coconut industry not just in Sarawak, but across Malaysia, by increasing efficiency, improving quality, and creating new market opportunities.

Through this partnership, UNIMAS is also contributing to the upskilling of local farmers, providing training and capacity-building programs that integrate research and technological innovation into practical applications. This initiative aligns with UNIMAS’s broader commitment to fostering sustainable agriculture and rural development, ensuring that local communities benefit from the economic opportunities generated by the coconut industry.

In summary, the Agro-Research Lab in Sebuyau, supported by UNIMAS’s expertise, will be a catalyst for transforming the coconut industry in Sarawak, helping to elevate the sector's productivity and sustainability, and creating lasting positive impacts for the local economy and communities.
2.
The article highlights the important role of the Borneo Studies Institute (ISB) at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Sarawak through research. The institute focuses on safeguarding the state's unique traditions, languages, and practices, contributing significantly to the understanding and appreciation of Sarawak’s diverse cultural landscape.

The research at ISB aims to document and protect indigenous cultures, particularly those that are at risk of disappearing. Through various studies, the institute works closely with local communities to gather knowledge about their customs, rituals, arts, and languages, ensuring that these aspects of Sarawak's rich heritage are preserved for future generations.

Additionally, the institute collaborates with other academic bodies, government agencies, and cultural organizations to promote cultural awareness and sustainable preservation efforts. ISB’s research also supports policy development aimed at protecting Sarawak’s cultural assets and fostering a sense of pride and identity among its people.

In summary, the article underscores ISB's vital contribution to Sarawak’s cultural preservation through academic research, community engagement, and collaboration, helping to safeguard the state's cultural legacy.