Kuching, Sarawak, 4th November 2025 – The Sarawak Biodiversity Centre (SBC) marked another historic milestone today with the signing of its fourth Benefit Sharing Agreement (BSA) with Iban communities on the valuable indigenous plant, Psychotria viridiflora, locally known as Engkerebai. This milestone builds upon previous BSAs signed between SBC and local communities on LitSara® (2019), AdenoSara® (2020), and MadhuSara® (2023).
The ceremony was witnessed by Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development. The BSA was signed between the Sarawak Biodiversity Council and five (5) Iban communities from:
- Rumah Bajau, Rantau Kuyang, Julau
- Rumah Lembang, Nanga Segera, Pakan
- Rumah Machup, Kedoh, Sg Tapang, Roban
- Krangan Mong, Lubok Antu
- Kampung Rapak Tebus, Pantu
In his speech, YB Dato Sri Roland Sagah commended the continuous collaboration between SBC and indigenous communities in implementing the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) under the Nagoya Protocol, reflecting Sarawak’s commitment to ensuring monetary and non-monetary benefits gained from the use of traditional knowledge and genetic resources are shared fairly and equitably.
Engkerebai is traditionally used by Iban communities as natural red dyes for their “pua kumbu” and to treat minor wounds and itchiness. The plant, native to Sarawak’s forests, holds potential bioactive compounds that have been the subject of ongoing research at SBC. Its inclusion in this BSA highlights how indigenous wisdom guides scientific research while promoting conservation, innovation, and community empowerment.
The BSA plays an important role in fostering a sustainable value chain from traditional knowledge to commercially viable products. Through SBC’s research and development, plants such as Engkerebai can contribute to the production of bio-based products in sectors such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. This initiative not only enhances the commercial value of Sarawak’s rich biodiversity, it also ensures that Sarawak’s indigenous communities benefit from these innovations.
In his welcoming remarks, SBC Chief Executive Officer, Dato Dr Yeo Tiong Chia, expressed appreciation to the participating communities for their trust and collaboration, noting that the Engkerebai project exemplifies how traditional knowledge and science can work hand in hand to create sustainable opportunities in line with the aspirations of PCDS 2030. With this signing, Sarawak continues to strengthen its position as a regional leader in biodiversity-based innovation.
