Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tan Chun Hong (James) joined Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) as an Academic Fellow in 2015 before becoming a permanent lecturer in 2016. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UMT. James Tan obtained his PhD from James Cook University, Australia, in 2013. He is currently a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Science and Marine Environment.

James Tan is a marine biologist whose research interests revolve around coral biology and ecology. He studies the demographics (e.g., growth, mortality, and reproduction) and population dynamics of coral populations in Malaysia as well as in Australia. His research has shown that there are reproductive constraints in coral populations across a wide latitudinal area. He has also recently recorded multi-species coral spawning in tropical regions.

In addition, James Tan examines the impact of climate change (e.g., abnormally high seawater temperatures and ocean acidification) on coral communities. The results have been used to support marine resource management and conservation in Malaysia.

He is actively involved in public awareness programmes to disseminate scientific knowledge to Malaysians. He has been invited to appear on national TV channels such as Selamat Pagi Malaysia, Bernama, and 8TV, as well as at talks organized by private organizations and NGOs.

At present, James Tan leads the Research and Education on Environment for Future Sustainability (REEFS) Research Interest Group. REEFS was awarded the International SeaKeepers Asia Achievement Award in 2022.