Monthly Monitoring Safeguards Coral Reef Health
Every month, members of the Tioman Marine Conservation Group (TMCG) carry out regular monitoring and cleaning at the reef rehabilitation sites to check on the growth and health of the corals. In order to protect corals that are undergoing bleaching, physical contact with corals is not allowed, to reduce the risk of further damage as well as from threats that can hinder their growth and recovery process. Healthy coral reefs not only provide habitat for various marine species, but also play a role in stabilizing marine ecosystems and protecting beaches from erosion.
A reef rehabilitation site showing positive progress and growth
Engaging Island Students in Ecosystem Conservation
In the third quarter of 2024, we conducted 10 school programs with schools on the island, exposing the students to a variety of interactive and fun educational activities. These programs are specifically designed to give students in-depth knowledge as well as increase their awareness of the importance of protecting their island's ecosystem. Among the topics discussed include climate change, coral reef conservation, and the importance of protecting marine life. This continuous effort is hoped to produce more students who are sensitive to environmental issues and become leaders in conservation efforts in the future.
addressing persistent threats to coral reefs
Ghost nets and Crown-of-Thorns starfish (COTs) have been a problem in Tioman Island for several years. The TMCG are consistently receiving reports of both these threats and they work together with local stakeholders to address the issue immediately. In this last quarter, although the number of ghost net reports have reduced, our team together with scuba diving shops and the local community managed to remove 1,500kg of ghost nets from the waters around Tioman. If left behind, these nets can cause damage to coral reefs and endanger marine life such as turtles, crabs, and dolphins that get entangled and eventually die.
We have also been actively implementing control measures for the population of the Crown of Thorns starfish. This action involves delivering a lethal injection to the Crown of Thorns, to ensure a balanced ecosystem and the sustainability of marine life. Previously, we have also collected these predators and brought them back to land where they are buried. Such efforts are crucial, especially during bleaching episodes when coral reefs are most vulnerable to damage.
TMCG and local stakeholders with the ghost nets removed
A diver delivering a lethal injection to a COT
Hands-On Conservation and Environmental Stewardship
In August, our Tioman colleagues hosted a team from ETIKA HOLDINGS, marking the second year of partnership for volunteer activities. During this three day visit, the volunteers were involved in several conservation activities aimed at protecting and preserving the environment on Tioman Island, including population control of the Crown of Thorns starfish (COTs). The presence of volunteers from ETIKA HOLDINGS has had a positive impact not only on the ecosystem but also on the local communities involved, and helped increased awareness among the volunteers themselves.
In September, we carried out a conservation program with IGB International School who visited the island. The participants helped clean and crush glass bottles using a glass crusher, which helps reduce waste and contribute towards effective waste management. The crushed glass pieces were used to make coral pots, which will be used in our reef rehabilitation efforts. This activity not only gives students practical experience but also emphasizes our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment.
Students cleaning glass bottles before crushing them