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.

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 FEBRUARY 2025 – Reef Check Malaysia’s 2024 Annual Survey Report reveals that the health of Malaysia’s coral reefs suffered a slight decline for the second year running. Using the Reef Check survey methodology, the Reef Check Malaysia team surveyed over 300 locations across the country.

With over 17 years of data—dating back to the first surveys conducted in 2007—the results indicate that, on average, the coral reefs surveyed have a “fair” level of living coral at 44.65%, marking a slight decrease from 45.87% in 2023.

Reef Check Malaysia attributes this decline to several factors, primarily tourism, pollution, and fishing activities. Additionally, the 4th Global Coral Bleaching Event significantly contributed to the decline, affecting coral reefs worldwide. Bleaching was recorded at nearly 90% of the surveyed locations.

The 4^th global mass coral bleaching phenomenon took place in 2024

The surveys also indicate that most indicator fish and invertebrate populations remain low, while signs of reef disturbance have increased in many areas. Approximately 83% of surveyed locations were impacted by discarded fishing nets and trash, while 56% suffered damage from boat anchors.

In Sabah, 64% of reefs showed evidence of dynamite fishing damage.

Ghostnets damage reefs

“These human activities are having a devastating impact on our reefs. We must urgently address these local threats to protect our marine ecosystems from these unsustainable practices,” said Julian Hyde, CEO of Reef Check Malaysia.

In response to these findings, Reef Check Malaysia is calling for improved management of coastal marine resources. The organization urges the government to consider joint management that integrates local communities into the management of Malaysia’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

“Empowering local communities in marine management gives stakeholders a stronger voice in decisions that affect their livelihoods. Numerous studies suggest that community involvement leads to improved conservation outcomes. Our Community Marine Conservation Groups (CMCGs) are a testament to this approach,” Hyde added.

Reef Check Malaysia has been actively working alongside CMCGs, a network of trained local islanders conducting marine conservation efforts.

The organization also emphasizes the importance of building ecological and economic resilience.

“Resilient reefs have a greater chance of withstanding or recovering from the growing threats of climate change. Likewise, resilient communities diversify their economies instead of solely relying on tourism,” Hyde explained.

Reef Check Malaysia urges the government to consider shifting towards a sustainable tourism model, moving away from mass tourism in favour of environmentally responsible practices.

As coral reef ecosystems provide food and livelihoods for coastal communities, Reef Check Malaysia stresses the urgent need for greater government focus on marine biodiversity conservation issues and stronger efforts to protect Malaysia’s coral reefs.

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.

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