Protect Coral Reefs in Malaysia

Few weeks ago, Tioman Marine Conservation Group (TMCG) was invited by Redang Marine Conservation Group (RMCG) to Redang Island to share their experiences in conducting marine conservation activities alongside reef managers – the challenges as well as the successes.

The RMCG was also taught by TMCG the different reef rehabilitation methodologies being used in Tioman Island. During the 3 days together, RMCG together with TMCG had deployed over 80 coral frames and coral blocks, and attached over 300 coral nubbins onto the coral blocks and coral frames. Together they also removed a ghost net weighing around 50kg.

The knowledge-sharing session is particularly beneficial as RMCG is still very new and in its infancy. According to Muhaimin, who started as a member of RMCG and is now an Assistant Programme Manager of Cintai Redang, “Learning from TMCG member’s experience and success was really interesting and inspired us to continue growing our RMCG.” It is hoped that RMCG will be a success and more locals will participate in reefs management activities.

Two weeks ago, a workshop on 'Empowering Balanced Gender Participation in Conservation Activities’ was given to youth from Larapan, Kulaupuan and Mabul islands. The aim of the workshop was to increase awareness and knowledge on current environmental and gender equality issues. Erynie Natykaf and Sarah Al Schafie, members of Tioman Marine Conservation Group from Tioman Island, were invited to share their experiences in conducting conservation works that are usually conducted by men such as ghost net removals. Their sharing was aim to inspire the female participants from Larapan, Kulaupuan and Mabul islands to be more involved in managing and conserving their reefs. Their sharing also broke the belief among the youth that women must stop working in conservation field once married, as Sarah is still actively involved in conservation work even after she is married and at the same time, she is having a full-time job running family business.