KUCHING, Nov. 5 -- Sarawak's indigenous Engkerebai plant (Psychotria viridiflora) could soon be developed into a high-value cosmeceutical product following the signing of the state's fourth Benefit Sharing Agreement (BSA).

The plant has long been used in Iban culture for dyeing pua kumbu and treating skin ailments.

The agreement, inked between the Sarawak Biodiversity Council and Iban communities from Julau, Pakan, Roban, Lubok Antu, and Pantu, ensures that any future commercial use of the plant will return benefits to the communities that contributed their traditional knowledge.

Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who witnessed the signing, said the research on Engkerebai demonstrat...