Protect Coral Reefs in Malaysia

Not too long ago, Reef Check Malaysia held an Eco-Friendly Snorkelling Guide training in Kudat, Sabah. Thirteen locals joined the training. During the training, participants learned basic marine conservation knowledge, guiding skills, and eco-friendly practices while snorkelling. They also had to pass the First Aid Responder certification as part of the module. The training was co-organized with WWF Malaysia (Kudat) and supported by our training partners BSMM Sabah and Tajau Laut Guest House. It is hoped that the locals will practise what they have learned. Responsible and sustainable marine tourism practices not only protect the locals' nature heritage (the coral reefs) but also provide social and economic benefits for them in the long run.

Reef Check Malaysia believes in co-management and raising awareness. Some of our focuses are empowering local community participation in conservation, creating economic opportunities, and raising awareness especially among school children.

Born and raised on Tioman Island, Aqhari joined our school programmes since he was a 7-year-old boy. Fast forward 11 years, he is now a member of the Tioman Marine Conservation Group (TMCG). TMCG is formed to provide local community the opportunity to work alongside reef managers in managing and protecting marine resources on their island.

Aqhari is a certified diver, has a full-time job running family business on the island and frequently joined Reef Check Malaysia conducting conservation activities such as ghost net removal, crown-of-thorns culling and clean-ups.

This shows the important of awareness raising programme, to inform and educate people, especially among young children. It is never too early to start familiarising children with nature.