Assessment of base areas for local sago-based food development in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia

Sago is not only a source of food for most people in Southeast Sulawesi, but also a cultural identity and tradition in various community activities, in addition to being one of the main staple products in the region. This study aims to assess the base area of local sago food processing and to determine the distribution of this superior commodity through the growth and share of local sago food processing. Assessing the base area of the region for local sago food production can serve as the basis for the evaluation and design of policies. The research results show that five of the eight districts are base areas for local sago food development, characterized by an LQ value of more than one. These areas are South Konawe (3.1), Konawe (2.6), North Konawe (2.5), East Kolaka (1.8), and Kolaka (1.2). Concerning the potential base area, three regencies fell into the superior category, three regencies belonged to the static category, and one regency was classified as potential and dominant. These findings reflect the prospects of local sago-based food processing and support its development as a leading commodity. Encouraging sago processors to maintain and develop the enterprises could support the provision of carbohydrate needs for consumption. There has been hope for the future of the local sago food processor thanks to its inclusive development in resource-rich base areas.