KOTA KINABALU: Moves are afoot to set up a Sabah Herbs Growers Association, in view of the importance they play in sustaining good health.

Sabah Pharmaceutical Society President, C.V.Chin said a meeting would be held on Thursday from 5pm to 6.30pm at the Sabah Pharmaceutical Society secretariat at Lot 69, Block H, 3^rd Floor, Aisa City.

He said several articles concerning the vast potential of herbs as an industry have appeared in various newspapers, in particular the Daily Express.

"These articles have generated a lot of interest in many far-sighted and ambitious herbs enthusiasts," he said.

It was reported that Malaysia has identified some 1,250 herbal plants with medicinal values and records show that 1,230 species are used in traditional therapies practised by the various ethnic communities in the country.

At present almost all the local herbs used for medicines are collected from their natural habitat. Hence the source will be exhausted soon.

Many self-made so-called herbs farmers have already in some ways, started planting them in their small farms and gardens. This is an encouraging sight. However teamwork is essential for a successful industry to grow.

Therefore there is a need for all herbs-growing enthusiasts to gather together to consider forming an association to promote herbs planting in Sabah.

For details, contact Chin at 010-8608308, or 017-8119091 or 087-332908 or June at 088-255050.

Source: Daily Express, 1.3.2000