KUCHING: The Sarawak Reef Ball Project has been recognised as the longest artificial reef project in the world, and the credit goes to the state government for its outstanding conservation efforts and achievement.
Reef Ball Foundation of USA chairman Todd Ryan Barber presented a special certificate and plaque to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development permanent secretary Datuk Zaidi Mahdi, witnessed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Datuk Len Talif, and Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) chief executive officer (CEO) Zolkipli Mohamad Aton.
The presentation ceremony took place during the courtesy call by SFC and The Reef Ball Foundation on the Premier today.
This recognition is an honour to the state as the reef ball project, an initiative by the Sarawak government, stands as a testament to the government’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to sustainable practices and the protection of Sarawak’s marine biodiversity.
SFC said under the visionary leadership of Abang Johari, the Sarawak government has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and the conservation of natural resources.
“Recognising the paramount importance of marine conservation, the government has provided steadfast support to SFC in the tireless efforts to maintain marine ecosystems and protect coastal areas.
“The allocation of RM70 million for Projek Rakyat Phase 1, along with an additional RM30 million for Phase 2, further underscores the government’s dedication to this cause,” SFC said in a statement.
As the implementing agency, SFC said it has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives to preserve marine life and responsibly manage Sarawak’s diverse marine ecosystems.
“The government’s unwavering support and the Premier have played a pivotal role in enabling SFC to successfully execute projects like the Sarawak Reef Ball Project, which has now set a global benchmark as the longest artificial reef project,” it said.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Abang Johari reaffirmed the government’s resolute dedication to environmental stewardship.
The project exemplifies the state’s proactive approach to marine conservation efforts and sustainable development, aligning seamlessly with the Sarawak government’s long-term vision outlined in the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
SFC and The Reef Ball Foundation of USA also thanked the Premier for his exemplary leadership and unwavering support for environmental sustainability in Sarawak.
Also present during the courtesy visit were SFC deputy chief executive officer I Abang Arabi Abang Aimran, SFC head of Fauna Research & Conservation (Marine) Section James Bali, Pembinaan Tukun Bebola (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd CEO Wilson Mapus, and Reef Innovations Inc president Larry D. Beggs.
