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.

Reef Check Malaysia (RCM) was pleased to hear the announcement by the Government to not proceed with the construction of the airport on Tioman Island, a decision the Cabinet made after the Technical Committee meeting on the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA).

RCM applauds the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change’s (NRECC) stand on their commitment to preserve and conserve natural resources and the environment in a responsible manner.

The rejection of the proposal to construct a new airport on Tioman Island is a huge victory for the environment and biodiversity, not only on Tioman Island but in Malaysia as a whole. It also means the local community’s livelihood on Tioman Island will not be negatively affected as its economy recovers from the Covid-19 lockdowns.

The concerns voiced by the public regarding the reclamation of protected marine areas that will destroy coral reefs, which are important habitats for various marine life, made an impact. RCM expresses gratitude to the public; a total of 1,412 people who have commented on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) from 21 June to 4 August 2023, over 26,000 people who have signed the petition to oppose the construction of the new Tioman Airport on Change.org, the SmallTownsMy team for producing awareness videos which showcase the local islanders’ voices and impacts of the construction, the Youths United For Earth (YUFE) for the awareness videos, the various local and international media partners for covering the story and bringing light to the situation, and the Reef Check Foundation headquarters and network for standing in solidarity with it.

RCM would also like to express its deep gratitude to the government agencies for making the right decision, the scientists for lending their expertise and providing feedback on the EIA, and to all the NGOs and countless people for sharing the stories and raising awareness.

Most importantly, RCM thanks the local community of Tioman Island for standing strong and fighting for the protection of their island and its biodiversity.

RCM hopes this will be the final and conclusive decision on any proposal to construct a new airport on Tioman Island to ensure the protection of Malaysia’s environment and biodiversity. Reef Check Malaysia fully supports this decision and looks forward to working with the relevant authorities to ensure sustainable tourism development, both on Tioman and throughout Malaysia.