Indonesian Ambassador Dupito Darma Simamora has called on the people of Fiji to return to their roots by embracing traditional and organic foods. He made this statement during the 50th anniversary celebrations of Fiji and Indonesia’s diplomatic relations at Albert Park in Suva this week.
Mr. Simamora highlighted the global issue of non-communicable diseases, noting that Fiji faces a higher prevalence of these conditions compared to Indonesia, which has a population of 275 million, while Fiji has around 920,000 residents. He emphasized that reverting to traditional and organic food could be a solution to this growing health concern.
He pointed out that plant-based salt results in less hypertension compared to regular salt, attributing health issues partially to modern lifestyles and eating habits. The ambassador stressed the importance of instilling healthier eating practices in children and encouraged a shift back to traditional cooking methods rather than relying solely on modern conveniences.
“Instead of purchasing food from supermarkets, individuals should visit local markets to select high-quality food, which supports farmers and is often more affordable than store-bought options,” he advised.
The three-day celebration included the screening of a film titled “Orpa,” which tells the inspiring story of a young girl from Papua striving for her education despite numerous challenges. The event also comprised discussions on Melanesian gastronomy and a cooking demonstration showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the Pacific region.
Mr. Simamora stated, “By hosting a Pacific original food festival, we can delve deeply into the culinary treasures each nation possesses. It is crucial to avoid modern food and reconnect with traditional options.”
He also noted the significance of local and traditional knowledge in adapting to climate change, urging countries to engage with their histories to revive forgotten recipes and traditional foods that can effectively tackle climate-related challenges.