BINTULU – In celebration of World Biodiversity Day, the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) together with the Bintulu Port Authority (LPB) launched a coral reef cleanup initiative at the Marine Police Force Jetty Base, Region 5, Bintulu.
The event, themed “Acting locally with global impact”, was officiated by Deputy Chairman of SFC and Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment, Yang Berhormat Datuk Haji Len Talif Salleh.
He was joined by SFC General Manager, Tuan Abang Arabi Abang Aimran, and LPB Acting General Manager, Capt. Zakhir Khan Bin Yusop.
This awareness programme forms part of the Coral Reef and Reef Ball for Ecosystem Enhancement and Stewardship (COREEFS) 2023–2030 Project.
It also supports the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and LPB’s ambition to achieve Green Port status.
As part of the initiative, 300 environmentally friendly artificial reef balls have been anchored across waters stretching from Balingian to Tatau.
These structures will contribute to a 761-kilometre reef barrier designed to protect seabed ecosystems from destructive trawling activities while creating new habitats for marine life.
To carry out the coral reef cleaning mission, 33 divers from multiple agencies and community groups took part.
This team of “ocean heroes” included representatives from SFC, the Marine Police Force (PPM), the Economic Planning Unit (EPU), BOMBA, UKPS, and diving operators from Miri.
Their combined efforts highlight the importance of collaboration in safeguarding marine biodiversity. SFC expressed its gratitude to LPB, the Marine Police Force, researchers, volunteers, and all participants for their dedication.
The corporation emphasised that empowering local communities and fostering partnerships are key to ensuring Sarawak’s marine ecosystems remain protected for future generations.
The ceremony also saw attendance from several distinguished figures, including YB Encik Johnny Pang Leong Ming (Assemblyman for N.68 Tanjong Datu), YB Tuan Iskandar Turkee (Assemblyman for N.67 Jepak), ACP Hj Ab Rahman Bin Mat Hasan (Commander, PPMW5 Sarawak), Tuan Hj Abdul Wahab bin Haji Rahim (Director of UKPS), YBhg Datu Haji Hamden Bin Haji Mohamad (Director, Sarawak Forest Department), YBhg Datu Sr Haji Zainal Abidin Abdullah (General Manager, PUSAKA), YBhg Datu Sr Haji Zaidi bin Haji Mahdi (General Manager, LCDA), and YBhg Datu Jack Liam (Controller, NREB).
World Biodiversity Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect ecosystems at both local and global levels.
The Bintulu initiative reflects Sarawak’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that marine treasures are preserved for generations to come.
