Protect Coral Reefs in Malaysia

Our marine ecosystems face a wide range of stressors and threats, both natural and human-induced. One significant natural threat is the Crown-of-Thorns starfish (COTs), a coral predator that feeds on coral polyps. When COT populations grow beyond their natural balance, outbreaks can occur, causing extensive damage to coral reefs. Reef Check Malaysia teams are trained to detect these outbreaks early so that immediate action can be taken. We use two methods to manage this issue: injecting COTs with vinegar, which humanely and effectively eliminates them, and manually removing them during dives. Removed COTs are then brought back to shore and buried to prevent further harm to the reef.

Over the past few months, our colleagues across several locations have responded to increasing sightings of this predator. On Pulau Aur, we conducted joint removal operations with divers from the Department of Fisheries Malaysia and the Mersing Marine Conservation Group (MMCG), resulting in the removal of 47 COTs. In Semporna, the Reef Check Malaysia team and the Larapan Marine Conservation Group (LMCG) carried out a similar effort, removing a whopping 1,073 COTs in a single month. This initiative required six dives, during which trained divers worked methodically to extract the COTs from the reef and safely dispose of them on land.

We are deeply grateful for the dedication of our Community Marine Conservation Groups, whose commitment and make these efforts possible. Members of these groups have undergone extensive training in conservation activities and continue to demonstrate strong commitment to protecting our marine environment. Their passion for protecting the marine environment, combined with your generous support, enables us and local island communities to respond swiftly to threats and safeguard the health of our marine ecosystems. Your contributions truly make a meaningful difference.

Reef Check Malaysia’s team in Mersing Island has been making steady progress on waste management and reef protection efforts.

Recently, our Cintai Mersing team hosted a Waste Management and Rumah Kitar Semula (Recycling Centre) demonstration, supported by the Pulau Sibu community. The event brought together 48 participants from Pulau Tinggi and three officers from the Mersing District Council. Participants learned about ongoing waste management initiatives on Pulau Sibu and Pulau Tinggi, followed by a hands-on demonstration of the recycling machinery at Rumah Kitar Semula, Pulau Sibu. One of officers had the opportunity to test out ourglass crushing machine, which will crush used and cleaned glass bottles into fine sand. In Tioman Island where we have the same machine, the crushed glass/ sand is used to make blocks used in our reef rehabilitation efforts. The session was a great example of how community-led action can reduce waste and help keep the islands clean and healthy.

At the same time, our Mersing Marine Conservation Group (MMCG) carried out four underwater cleanup sessions around Pulau Aur, successfully collecting 63 kg of marine debris over the past few months. Most of the debris consisted of ropes and discarded fishing nets — materials that pose serious threats to coral reefs and marine life. These cleanups not only help restore reef health but also give MMCG members valuable hands-on experience in safeguarding their marine environment.