Co-engaged Lear ning Pra ctices for Equi ty, Livelih oods and Devel opme nt 62 that can contribute towards improving the livelihood of the villagers. The partnership with various sectors – from grassroots levels to the private sector – with USM as the liaison is an example of how regional networking can contribute towards greener economy through bioprospecting and match-making of biodiversity resources through the right kinds of industry partnerships. RCE Penang, and particularly USM as a higher learning institute, has benefited from the programme in many ways. The fundamental research opened up new, previously disregarded, avenues with regards to traditional medicine. As a result, more transdisciplinary research focusing on different aspects of traditional medicine is currently being conducted. The documentation techniques shared by RCE Bangalore have also benefited USM with tangible outcomes, such as enhanced capacities and increased publications on local herbal use that are more structured and holistic. ESD at the community level has also heightened awareness on the need to preserve traditional medicine knowledge and has changed the paradigm of teaching into more interactive and participatory methods, benefiting all relevant stakeholders. A list of the key project results include: • The development of an herbal medicinal plants database has increased awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation among various stakeholders; • The development of a traditional healers database contributed to an increase in the understanding of traditional healers’ practices and associated natural resources, while increasing interest in conservation of biodiversity; • Revitalisation of home gardens under a ex situ conservation programme has promoted informal learning and revitalised social capital within communities; • A module for young children, from kindergarten age, has been developed to promote interest around the importance and use of herbal medicinal plants; • Organising events like Training of Trainers, workshops and conference created networking and unique learning experiences for RCEs on the contemporary relevance of traditional medicine and its role in community health; and • Development of a local enterprise ‘torch ginger products’ could create sustainable livelihoods for local communities. References Burkill, I.H., Haniff M. 1930. Malay Village Medicine. Gard. Bull. Straits Settl. 6: 165-321. 7
Traditional Knowledge and Biodiversity
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