Interactive Map Brings Insight into Malaysia’s Coral Reef Health

KUALA LUMPUR, 22 SEPTEMBER 2025 – An advanced interactive map compiling years of data on the health of Malaysia’s reefs from over 300 sites is now available on Reef Check Malaysia’s website.

The interactive map offers a comprehensive and dynamic view of reef conditions, specifically using data from the Reef Check survey methodology, which is widely recognized worldwide.

It provides a robust platform that visualizes data, displaying key indicators such as fish, invertebrates, and substrate data. The platform presents this information in an easy-to-understand format, helping users quickly identify areas of concern and track trends in reef health in Malaysia over the past five years.

The interactive map displays data on the health of Malaysia’s coral reefs.

The new platform was made possible through The APAC Digital Transformation Program by Infoxchange.

“This platform leverages the power of community involvement to gather extensive and diverse data sets. This approach democratizes data collection and encourages public participation, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards reef conservation,” commented Theresa Ng, Chief Operating Officer of Reef Check Malaysia.

“The interactive map also provides timely updates on reef health indicators. This immediate access to current data allows stakeholders to make informed decisions quickly, enhancing the ability to respond to emerging threats,” Ng added.

The data was gathered using the Reef Check survey methodology

The platform is designed with an intuitive user interface and is accessible via Reef Check Malaysia’s website. This ensures that users of all technical backgrounds can easily navigate the map, and access relevant information.

Alongside the interactive map, Reef Check Malaysia has also introduced an educational modules page, designed for teachers, students, and passionate individuals to learn more about marine conservation.

“We invite everyone to explore the map and educational modules,” added Ng. “We hope this platform and modules will help facilitate informed decision-making, promote sustainable practices, and ultimately contribute to the preservation and restoration of coral reefs, safeguarding these vital ecosystems for future generations.”

For more information on Reef Check Malaysia, you may visit them on their website, Facebook and Instagram or contact them at hello@reefcheck.org.my.

MERSING, 12 August 2022 – Reef Check Malaysia (RCM) conducted an awareness talk on safety in boat operation to 21 local stakeholders in Mersing, Johor, last Monday, 8 August 2022.

“The awareness talk was intended to increase the local stakeholders’ awareness of safety issues when they are conducting boating activities”, said Atteleth Don, Sustainable Tourism Programme Manager at Reef Check Malaysia.

“Especially when they are bringing visitors for various water activities around the Mersing islands.”, Don added.

Tourism in the Mersing islands mainly revolves around water activities such as snorkelling, island hopping and scuba diving. Safety in operation and boat handling plays a crucial role in avoiding boating incidents.

The awareness talk was delivered by an expert with 30 years of experience in ship handling and operation. The expert shared some practical guidelines for implementing safety measures in boat operation throughout the talk.

Representatives from local boat operators and government agencies were among the 21 attendees.

The awareness talk is part of a long-term RCM’s programme supported by MISC Group through its Heart of the Ocean marine biodiversity conservation programme. The programme aims to improve ocean health by supporting coral reef conservation, increasing reef resilience, and reducing plastic litter in our oceans.

For more information on what Reef Check Malaysia does, visit their website here or contact them at hello@reefcheck.org.my.