In an ambitious move to celebrate and showcase Sabah's unique indigenous food, there are plans underway to host a world food forum next year. At the heart of this international culinary gathering will be the ancient and revered dish of the Kadazandusun community, the 'bosou'.
Sabah Indigenous Bosou Enterprise Association president Jiliah Situn expressed the profound significance of 'bosou' in the hearts of indigenous Sabahans. The dish, known for its distinctive preparation process and locally sourced ingredients, has gained international acclaim since a Unesco representative took notice in 2017.
"Sabah's 'bosou' is unique, setting it apart from similar dishes in other countries," Jiliah emphasised. "The United Nations recognises the importance of the Kadazandusun food system in preserving cultural heritage and promoting sustainable indigenous food practices."
The association aims to facilitate cross-cultural learning by inviting participants from around the globe to share insights about their own 'bosou' dishes. This initiative aligns with the goal of the proposed world food forum, which intends to highlight and celebrate the essence of Sabah's 'bosou' on the global stage.
Peter Bangkuai, a representative from the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), encouraged the association to develop a comprehensive framework for the 'bosou' international food festival. He emphasised STB's commitment to supporting homegrown events that not only add value but also draw international participants.
"This forum provides a valuable opportunity for both local and international participants to exchange 'bosou' stories and traditional preparation techniques passed down through generations," Bangkuai noted. "It will foster discussions on sustainable indigenous food systems, potentially leading to valuable insights and collaborations in agriculture and food production."
The proposed event, according to Bangkuai, holds the potential to elevate tourism in Sabah by attracting tourists and culinary enthusiasts eager to experience the unique flavours of 'bosou' and delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Sabah.
As Sabah sets the stage to host the world food forum, the gastronomic spotlight shines brightly on 'bosou,' a culinary jewel deeply embedded in the cultural heritage of the Kadazandusun community.
This global gathering promises not only to tantalise taste buds but also to serve as a platform for meaningful discussions on sustainable food practices and cross-cultural culinary exchange.