Sarawak agencies collaborate to develop natural anthelmintic from Sipudun plant for livestock, supporting food security and indigenous knowledge.
KUCHING: The Sarawak Biodiversity Council and Department of Veterinary Services have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop natural deworming products for livestock.
The collaboration focuses on creating anthelmintic products from the Sipudun plant (Picria fel-terrae) for small ruminants affected by parasitic infections.
Sarawak Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn and State Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom witnessed the MoU exchange.
SBC chairman Datuk Adana Jed and DVS director Datuk Dr Adrian Susin Ambud signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations.
The partnership builds on SBC’s Traditional Knowledge Documentation Programme, which recorded the Bidayuh community’s use of Sipudun for treating high blood pressure and deworming.
Initial research by SBC has already validated the plant’s efficacy as a deworming agent in livestock.
SBC will conduct laboratory research, bioassays, formulation optimisation, and stability studies under the collaboration.
DVS will handle field applications through controlled animal trials, veterinary evaluation, and on-site performance assessments.
This initiative supports Sarawak’s long-term goals of strengthening livestock resilience and enhancing food security.
The project aligns with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 and the National Agri-food Policy.
It also supports Malaysia’s broader efforts to promote sustainability and reduce reliance on imported synthetic anthelmintics.
The collaboration offers opportunities for indigenous community participation through structured cultivation and raw material supply networks.
SBC and DVS will validate product performance in real farm settings to benefit livestock farmers and local communities.
SBC has been working with the Bidayuh community to supply the plant and ensure benefit sharing from this traditional knowledge.
