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The Star

Marine conservation boost for Semporna

KOTA KINABALU: Efforts to protect coral reefs and endangered sea turtles in Mabul Island, off Semporna, have received a boost through two new conservation initiatives supported by local partners. The year-long programmes, carried out in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah's Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI-UMS) and conservation group One Ocean Empire, aim to restore marine habitats using scientifically proven strategies. 'The initiatives include the development of coral nurseries, propagation of 200 corals, protection of two turtle nests, and skills training for local communities to support marine conservation, sustainable fishing, and eco-tourism,' said Sawit Kinabalu Group deputy chief executive officer Datin Stella Ambrose. These programmes are part of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment of SKG Property Sdn Bhd (Sawit Property), a subsidiary of the Sabah-owned Sawit Kinabalu Group, and coincide with the upcoming launch of its Eden Suites project in Semporna. 'We are proud to align our business goals with initiatives that protect and preserve the natural beauty of Semporna,' Ambrose said in a statement on Tuesday (April 29). She also presented mock cheques for RM10,000 and RM20,000 respectively to BMRI-UMS and One Ocean Empire at the company's headquarters recently. BMRI-UMS was represented by Associate Prof Dr Zarinah Waheed, and One Ocean Empire by its founder Monica Chin. Also present were members of the group's senior management. Eden Suites, located within Plaza Semporna, is designed for eco-conscious travellers drawn to the area's renowned dive sites and islands, Sipadan among them. Sipadan, Malaysia's only oceanic island off Sabah's east coast, is known around the world for its rich marine biodiversity and top-tier diving. Its coral reefs are teeming with turtles, barracudas, reef sharks and more. Strict conservation rules, including daily permit limits and no overnight stays, are in place to safeguard its fragile ecosystem. Ambrose added that by investing in marine conservation, Sawit Property is helping to preserve Semporna's natural heritage while positioning the district as a destination for sustainable tourism.