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Positive impact from artificial reef project

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Jamilah speaks to the press. With her is PBB Tanjung Datu Youth chief Azizul Annuar Adenan. Photo: Ghazali Bujang

KUCHING: Some 1,100 artificial reef balls were deployed along the Sempadi-Tanjung Datu coastal waters as part of the Sarawak government’s marine conservation efforts.

Tanjung Datu assemblywoman Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu said the artificial reef would have a positive impact, including increasing the socioeconomy of the community, particularly fishermen.

“This artificial reef is not only to create a habitat for fishes but also to protect other marine life from activities that could harm the coastal ecosystem such as illegal trawling activities,” she said at the ceremony on Monday (Oct 26).

She thanked the Sarawak government for allocating RM70 million for the project that would see 16,800 artificial reef balls planted from Tanjung Datu to Lawas.

“It is hoped that with this project, the fishermen’s catch in Tanjung Datu area would increase thus improving their income, at the same time able to develop this area into a fisheries hub as well as creating a fishing sport here.”

She said Tanjung Datu, together with the availability of the national parks under Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), had huge ecotourism potential.

“Just recently, we had a lab session with SFC, and they have requested a few projects under the 12th Malaysia Plan in order to develop the ecotourism in this area.”

Jamilah said among the projects was a Visitor Information Centre in Lundu and Sematan in view of the increasing visitors.

“Besides that, a Digital Interpretation Centre. This centre is important for the Gunung Gading National Park, and this is in line with the state’s digital initiatives.

“While, the third one will be the Marine Discovery Centre in Sematan or Telok Melano for marine researchers.

“Therefore, we hope that in the 12th Malaysia Plan, the Sarawak government can consider our application.”

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