REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, MAKASSAR -- The Faculty of Agriculture of Hasanuddin University in Makassar, South Sulawesi, and the Graduate School of Agricultural Science, University of Tohoku, in Japan are conducting a joint research to develop South Sulawesi's traditional paddy.

"The extensive biodiversity of South Sulawesi has drawn our interest to develop the local paddy species," Dr. Tadashi Sato, a researcher from Japanese research institute RIKEN Nishina Center, which is also involved in the joint research, said here on Wednesday.

It has been a hereditary practice for local people to cultivate this species of paddy.

As compared to other species of the crop, the one in South Sulawesi is more delicious, more resistant to pests, and more adaptable to environmental conditions.

However, the local paddy species has a higher stem than others that is less favorable and makes it fall easily.

"We are trying to develop a dwarf type of this paddy to ensure that it does not fall easily," Sato affirmed, adding that the joint research team will also study the local plants cultivated by the people.

People in South Sulawesi plant paddy and cultivate fish in the same land.

"This system is unique and environmentally friendly as it does not require the use of chemicals," Sato pointed out.

Moreover, a member of the research team from Hasanuddin University, Dr. Rinaldi Sjahril, noted that the joint research was agreed upon through a Memorandum of Agreement that enables an exchange program for students and academicians.

The joint research will also facilitate Indonesian researchers, especially those from Hasanuddin University, to publish their scientific papers.

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