KUCHING: Petronas, in partnership with Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), has successfully completed the RM8mil Eco-Marine Project at Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park, making significant improvements to the marine environment in the area.
During the closing ceremony held here on Friday (June 9), SFC chief executive officer Zolkipli Mohamad Aton stated that the five-year initiative involved the deployment of 1,750 artificial reef balls within the national park, leading to positive outcomes.
“There are now more frequent sightings of iconic marine species such as whale sharks, turtles, and dolphins in Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park,” said Zolkipli. He stressed the tangible benefits provided by the reef balls, which contribute to tourism products, protect the seabed, and create nurseries for marine life to thrive.
“Petronas is committed to establishing a healthy marine ecosystem in Sarawak, with ongoing efforts for almost a decade. We are proud to be a strategic partner in this project, which aligns with Sarawak’s 2030 conservation commitment and the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability,” stated Petronas Sarawak general manager Zulaihi Mantali.
Zulaihi further highlighted the significant impact on marine life and habitat resulting from the Petronas-SFC Eco Marine Project and the Biodiversity, Environment, and Conservation (Beacon) project carried out by Petronas subsidiary, Malaysia LNG Sdn Bhd.
The deployment of over 3,000 artificial reefs in Similajau and Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Parks has fostered the growth of new corals, provided shelter for fish and turtles, and deterred illegal trawling activities.
The ceremony was attended by Sarawak Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development, Datuk Len Talif Salleh.
Launched in 2016, the Petronas-SFC Eco Marine Project aimed to conserve and protect marine life in the designated area of 186,930 hectares and 15 nautical miles from the shores of Kampung Baluboh, Luak to Kampung Suai, Miri. The project’s timeline was extended due to challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Eco Marine Project at Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park marks the second marine conservation initiative jointly undertaken by Petronas and SFC in Sarawak waters.
In 2013, Petronas subsidiary, Malaysia LNG Sdn Bhd (MLNG), invested RM4.7mil in the Beacon Project at Similajau National Park in Bintulu, involving the placement of 1,500 artificial reef balls.
Building on the success of the Beacon project, Petronas continued its collaboration with the Eco Marine Project, which falls under the Petronas-Sarawak Government Joint Working Committee’s focus areas (JWC).
