By Associate Professor Dr. Tan Chun Hong

Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) and Aquaria KLCC collaborated recently and officially launched Phase 3 of the Guardian of the Reefs campaign, continuing a national initiative to restore coral reefs in Malaysia.

This new phase introduced the Coral Adoption Programme, aimed at encouraging greater public and corporate participation in marine conservation.

The launch event, held at Aquaria KLCC, was officiated by Dato’ Simon Foong, Chairman of Aquaria KLCC; Dato’ Haji Azahari Haji Othman, Deputy Director General (Development) of the Department of Fisheries Malaysia; and Professor Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, Vice Chancellor of UMT.

A live coral fragging demonstration was conducted by Associate Professor Dr. James Tan Chun Hong from UMT’s Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, showcasing the scientific techniques involved in reef restoration.

During the campaign’s Phase 2 in 2024, more than 1,000 coral nubbins were restored at Pulau Bidong through an RM200,000 collaboration. This milestone marked a shift from education and awareness to direct ecological action. Phase 3 will build on these efforts by expanding public access and corporate engagement through the Coral Adoption Programme.

The programme offers structured adoption packages to individuals and organisations. For the public, contributions range from RM10 to RM350 and include items such as coral-themed pins, e-certificates, pouches, and conservation newsletters.

For companies, tax-exempted contributions are aligned with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments. Corporate participants will receive documentation of measurable environmental outcomes and opportunities for employee and stakeholder engagement.

During the launch, Aquaria KLCC presented a symbolic cheque of RM52,500, representing 150 coral adoption packages sponsored by its employees and guests. The programme targets the restoration of 3,000 coral nubbins and aims to expand the coral garden to 2,000 square metres by the year 2027.

Coral reefs play a critical ecological and economic role, supporting more than 25% of marine species despite covering less than 0.1% of the ocean floor. They provide coastal protection, support fisheries and livelihoods, and are key to Malaysia’s marine biodiversity. However, these ecosystems are increasingly threatened by climate change, pollution, and unsustainable tourism. The Coral Adoption Programme offers a practical, science-based approach to addressing these challenges and mobilising community involvement.

UMT and Aquaria KLCC remain committed to enhancing public awareness and national capacity for marine conservation. This partnership demonstrates that effective conservation requires collaboration between research institutions, the private sector, government agencies, and the wider community.

For more information or to participate in the Coral Adoption Programme, visit:
To support the movement or adopt a coral, visit UMT’s Coral Conservation page or follow @officialUMT on social media.