Management and Science University (MSU) has taken a significant step towards marine conservation and community empowerment with the launch of the MyCoral Community Diver project. This project, which ran from March to May 2024 at Nelayan Resort and Pulau Redang Marine Park, forms part of the MyCoral Eco Marine Project aimed at preserving coral reefs and supporting local communities in Setiu, Terengganu.
Funded through the All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia-Sustainable Development Goals (APPGM-SDG) Income Generation Grant worth RM40,000, the MyCoral Community Diver project focuses on training ten local community members as certified scuba divers and coral restoration experts. Participants include fishermen, boatmen, students, and their families, with the goal of educating, generating income, and encouraging community involvement in coral reef preservation.
The comprehensive 12-module training programme covers scuba diving techniques, coral restoration methods, digital marketing, and financial literacy. By obtaining scuba diving licenses and mastering coral restoration techniques, participants can generate income through eco-tourism and coral restoration tour packages, fostering economic sustainability within the community.
In collaboration with the Department of Fisheries Malaysia, Dorken Reef Resources, RAH Venture, and Persatuan Nelayan Kawasan Setiu, Terengganu, the project ensures a holistic approach to marine conservation and community development. By equipping local community members with the skills and knowledge for coral reef conservation, MSU is fostering a culture of responsibility and ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems.
The MyCoral Community Diver project has three main objectives: educating local community members about coral restoration techniques and scuba diving, generating new income sources through coral restoration initiatives and eco-tourism, and encouraging active community involvement in marine conservation efforts.
The project was officiated by Fisheries Department Deputy Director-General (Management) Wan Muhammad Aznan Abdullah, Terengganu State Fisheries Director Ruzaidi Mamat, and MSU Assistant Director of Student And Career Development, Adnan Rosley. MSU, through its International Media School (IMS) MyCoral Eco Marine Project, seeks to raise public awareness and education about the importance of artificial reefs, boosting marine life and ecosystems while helping the fishing community of Malaysia’s Redang Island off the coast of Terengganu.
The MyCoral Eco Marine Project has progressed to a 7.0 edition for 2024 since its inception in 2016. MSU is contributing to conservation strategies by deploying and maintaining coral propagators to raise the world coral population in Malaysia and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. MSUrians are utilizing their skills for the environmental cause, creating eco-awareness and promoting eco-friendliness in community engagement and environmental sustainability activities.
For a full range of information on flexible programs offered at MSU, interested individuals can contact 03-5521 6868, email enquiry@msu.edu.my, or visit www.msu.edu.my. MSU’s commitment to marine conservation and community empowerment through the MyCoral Community Diver project showcases its dedication to environmental sustainability and community development.