JAYAPURA – The Papua Provincial Government has begun building cross-sector collaboration to develop an integrated sago industry from upstream to downstream. The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen food self-sufficiency while increasing the value of one of Papua's leading commodities.

The commitment was discussed during a meeting between Papua Deputy Governor Aryoko A.F. Rumaropen, local Papuan culinary entrepreneur Charles Toto, prospective investor Sagolicious, and representatives from several regional government agencies at the Office of the Papua Provincial Department of Manpower, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Transmigration.

Aryoko said that sago is one of Papua's greatest natural assets and should be managed sustainably so that it serves not only as a traditional staple food but also as a driver of community economic growth.

"Sago is both our identity and the future of our food security. Collaboration with creative entrepreneurs and strong synergy among government agencies are essential to ensure that sago is valued not only for its cultural significance but also for its economic potential to improve people's livelihoods," Aryoko said.

During the meeting, the government discussed upstream development strategies, including the protection of sago forest areas, the provision of high-quality seedlings, sustainable land management, and improvements in harvesting techniques.

For the downstream sector, discussions focused on post-harvest processing, modernization of product packaging, strengthening business licensing and regulatory compliance, and expanding access to domestic and international export markets.

The Papua Provincial Government is also preparing a comprehensive road map for the development of the sago industry to serve as a coordinated framework for future programs. Assistance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) will be strengthened to enable Papuan sago-based products to compete in the growing healthy food market, including gluten-free products.

In addition, the provincial government is opening investment opportunities through Sagolicious to accelerate the development of the regional sago industry. Production centers will be prioritized in Keerom Regency, Jayapura Regency, Jayapura City, Yapen Islands Regency, and Waropen Regency to improve the quality of sago starch to meet export standards.

During the meeting, Charles Toto also showcased a range of value-added sago products, including sago noodles and various commercially packaged processed foods. These products demonstrate the potential for downstream sago processing to be further developed in partnership with local MSMEs, helping drive Papua's economy through its distinctive indigenous food resources. ***