38th ASM IdeaXchange and ASM Sarawak Chapter Roadshow

Malaysia’s indigenous communities, especially in Borneo, have a long-standing history of protecting the environment and preserving natural resources. This was the focus of the 38^th ASM IdeaXchange, aptly titled “Indigenous Cultures, Practices and Views from Borneo towards the Promotion of Planetary Health”. The session was moderated by Madam Margarita Naming, Deputy CEO of Sarawak Biodiversity Centre.

Professor Dr Poline Bala, Director of the Institute of Borneo Studies at UNIMAS, highlighted how Indigenous Knowledge helps address local challenges. It enhances food production, health, wealth distribution, conflict prevention, and local affairs management.

Dr Elena Gregoria Chai Chin Fern, Principal Assistant Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry & Performing Arts Sarawak, shared her ministry’s efforts to preserve indigenous culture, including traditional knowledge such as folklore, dances, and musical instruments. These efforts are crucial for passing down ancestral wisdom.

The 38^th IdeaXchange was part of the ASM Sarawak Chapter Roadshow. The roadshow, in collaboration with UNIMAS, attracted physical and online participants, including university students, academia and personnel from government and agencies.

Some highlights are Special Talks by the ASM Sarawak Expert Network. The one-day roadshow also showcased several ASM initiatives and programmes, such as the Malaysia Open Science Platform (MOSP), 10-10 MySTIE Framework, e-estidotmy, Young Scientists Network, Science Communication as well as career opportunities in ASM.