MIRI – Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) has officially launched its first marine research vessel under the Coral Reef and Reef Ball for Ecosystem Enhancement and Stewardship (COREEFS) Project.
The ceremony took place on 20 April 2026 at the UKPS Jetty in Miri, marking a significant step forward in marine conservation and biodiversity research in Sarawak waters.
The event was officiated by YB Datuk Haji Len Talif Salleh, Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Sarawak, who served as the Guest of Honour.
He was welcomed by SFC General Manager, Tuan Abang Arabi Abang Aimran, alongside Deputy General Manager (Conservation), Tuan Haji Madhan Kiflie.
The vessel was made possible through funding support from the Bintulu Port Authority and a strategic collaboration with SFC under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The COREEFS Project aims to strengthen marine ecosystem stewardship by enhancing coral reef habitats and supporting long-term monitoring programmes.
Key stakeholders attended the launch, including representatives from the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) Miri, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Miri, and the Sarawak Marine Fisheries Department Miri.
Members of SFC’s management team were also present, reflecting the broad cooperation between government agencies and conservation bodies.
The newly launched vessel will serve as a dedicated platform for scientific research, enabling comprehensive monitoring of marine biodiversity and supporting conservation initiatives across Sarawak’s coastal waters.
Officials highlighted that the vessel will allow researchers to conduct more detailed studies on coral reef health, fish populations, and marine ecosystems, providing vital data for sustainable management.
The COREEFS Project is part of Sarawak’s wider environmental agenda, which focuses on balancing development with ecological preservation. By investing in marine research infrastructure, the state aims to safeguard its rich biodiversity while promoting sustainable use of marine resources.
The launch of the vessel is seen as a milestone in Sarawak’s conservation journey, reinforcing the state’s commitment to protecting its marine environment.
It also underscores the importance of partnerships between government agencies, enforcement bodies, and conservation organisations in addressing environmental challenges.
Officials concluded that the vessel will not only enhance scientific capacity but also strengthen Sarawak’s role in regional marine conservation efforts.
The initiative is expected to contribute to long-term sustainability, ensuring that future generations benefit from healthy and resilient marine ecosystems.
