Photo courtesy of Universiti Malaya
SEMPORNA: The first tropical eucheumatoids seaweed restoration project in the country has been initiated off Selakan island here.
The restoration project brings together researchers, conservation practitioners, government agencies, and the local community in a collaborative effort to safeguard one of the country's important marine resources.
It was led by Universiti Malaya (UM) in collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia, Sabah Parks, and the Selakan Marine Conservation Group.
UM's Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences’ Professor Dr Lim Phaik Eem said the initiative a landmark achievement for the nation.
"This is the first seaweed restoration project in Malaysia focused on tropical eucheumatoids, a group of seaweeds that are ecologically important and economically valuable to coastal communities.
“Through this project, we aim not only to restore wild populations but also to strengthen scientific knowledge, conservation practices, and community stewardship of marine resources," said the project leader in a statement.
Eucheumatoid seaweeds, including commercially important carrageenan-producing species, play a vital role in supporting biodiversity, coastal livelihoods, and the growing seaweed industry.
However, wild populations are increasingly facing pressures from climate change, environmental degradation, and other anthropogenic impacts.
The Selakan restoration site was selected due to its ecological significance and the strong commitment of the local community.
The restoration effort forms part of the international Seaweed-PROTECT project, funded by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).
The project is implemented through a global partnership involving the Natural History Museum (United Kingdom), the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS), and Universiti Malaya, with additional support provided through the UM Matching Fund.
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