KOTA KINABALU: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) has strengthened its marine research capabilities with the acquisition of five new boats to support teaching, learning and research activities under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP).
UMS vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor said the acquisition was a strategic move to ensure marine research could be conducted more effectively and safely, in line with the university’s role as a regional and global leader in marine science and aquaculture.
He said the Borneo Marine Institute (IMB) had previously relied on ageing research boats, some of which were more than 20 years old, affecting operational efficiency and the safety of researchers and students.
“The acquisition of these new assets will enhance teaching and learning activities as well as research, particularly for Marine Science and Aquaculture students,” he said.
His speech was delivered by UMS deputy vice-chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Ir Dr Rosalam Sarbatly during the launch ceremony for the new IMB boats at the UMS jetty on Wednesday.
Kasim said the acquisition of the modern assets aligned with the UMS Strategic Plan 2023-2027, which focuses on high-impact research and talent development.
“This initiative also supports the aspirations of the Higher Education Ministry and the development of the Blue Economy, while reinforcing UMS’ role as a key reference hub for tropical marine science in the region,” he said.
He also expressed hope that IMB staff would fully utilise and properly maintain the assets to ensure the sustainability of the university’s research excellence.
Meanwhile, IMB dean Associate Professor Dr Ching Fui Fui @ Faihana Ching Abdullah said the five new boats were acquired under the 12MP Rolling Plan 5 (RP5) to replace outdated assets no longer suitable for use.
She said the boats would have a significant impact on academic and scientific activities, particularly in facilitating practical training and field studies in a more effective, efficient and safer manner.
“The five new boats comprise three Vanguard-type vessels — UMS Enhalus, UMS Epinephelus and UMS Batillipes — as well as two catamarans, UMS Cheilinus and UMS Astrea,” she said.
Faihana said the names of the boats were inspired by marine biodiversity treasures and IMB’s key research areas.
She said Enhalus referred to the dominant seagrass species Enhalus acoroides found in Sepanggar waters, while Epinephelus was derived from the genus of grouper fish.
“Batillipes is the scientific name for the water bear or tardigrade, symbolising resilience and precision in marine biodiversity exploration.
“Cheilinus and Astrea refer respectively to the genus of wrasse fish that is a key research species under IMB’s HICoE programme and a coral genus, reflecting IMB’s commitment to marine ecosystem conservation,” she said.
She added that all the boats were equipped with safety features that complied with Sabah Ports and Harbours Department standards and were capable of accommodating crew members and passengers for research operations in Sabah waters.
The Borneo Marine Institute, formerly known as the Borneo Marine Research Institute, is a UMS centre of excellence focusing on oceanography, sustainable aquaculture and marine biodiversity conservation.
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