Decorated Sabah military veteran helps preserve marine habitat

New Straits Times

19-05-2025

KUDAT: For 48-year-old Almudi Eskal, a decorated military veteran from Kampung Sembulan Lama, service doesn't stop even if one no longer wears the uniform.
With over 205 blood donations and a Guinness World Record for participating in a 168-hour underwater challenge under his belt, Almudi is once again giving back to the nation. Only this time as a volunteer in Kudat.
He was among hundreds of volunteers, including 95 divers and students from four schools, who took part in the Largest Coral Fragment Planting Event in Malaysia.
The event, organised by Sabah Parks, is set to be recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBR) today.
Launched on May 5, the initiative involves installing 12,000 coral fragments on 1,000 metal frames near Pulau Kalampunian, off the coast of Tun Mustapha Park (TMP).
Despite his impressive background as the first Malaysian to qualify as a ship diver and later excel in France's Submarine Escape Training Instructor course, Almudi said contributions to the nation can take many forms.
"It's about giving back — whether through national defence, saving lives with blood, or restoring nature," said the head of the Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Department at the Armed Forces Hospital.
During a ceremony to receive the MBR certificate of recognition, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said the achievement coincides with the ninth anniversary of the park's gazettement.
"A large part of this project has been made possible through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions from various parties, including the private sector and non-governmental organisations.
"These contributions reflect the confidence of multiple stakeholders in marine conservation efforts in Sabah and serve as proof that collaboration between the public and private sectors can successfully drive sustainable environmental restoration initiatives."
Sabah Parks director Dr Maklarin Lakim said the activity was part of ongoing efforts to restore damaged marine habitats.
He added that restoration was increasingly necessary due to climate change and declining fish stocks.
"This activity will also provide a marine learning site for students, communities and tourists."
Tun Mustapha Park has become a habitat for more than 528 species of fish, 250 species of coral, three endangered species of sea turtles, dugongs, dolphins, as well as iconic species such as whale sharks and whales.