UMT | Portal Rasmi Universiti Malaysia Terengganu

UMT’s release of over 1,000 clownfish enters MBOR

UMT’s release of over 1,000 clownfish enters MBOR

Wednesday, 17/08/2022

Share This Article :

KUALA NERUS – Universiti Malaysia Terengganu’s release of 1,270 clownfish fry yesterday at Bidong Island waters has entered the Malaysian Book of Records (MBOR) as the first of such event in the country.

The event was the highlight of the Bidong Merdeka Dive 2022, held at UMT’s Marine Natural Research Station on Bidong Island. Bidong Merdeka Dive is one of the university’s annual traditions.

UMT Vice Chancellor Professor Dato’ Dr. Mazlan Abd Ghaffar said that the release of the fry was carried out in conjunction with Malaysia’s national month celebration and the gesture was intended to symbolize freedom. At the same time, the event was part of the marine life conservation campaign.

“Bidong Merdeka Dive 2022 was a medium for disseminating knowledge about conservation of valuable treasures at the bottom of the sea and the importance of marine ecosystem conservation.

“Indirectly the programme contributed to Terengganu’s economy by encouraging an influx of tourists to the state,” Professor Mazlan said.

“All the fry were hatched and reared at the Hatchery Centre belonging to the Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP) after a series of studies had been completed by a group of UMT researchers.”

Professor Mazlan added that UMT continuously addresses issues related to marine lives and the environment.

“As a university with a focus in the marine field, UMT feels there is a need to create awareness among the public of the importance of marine conservation so as to produce a generation with high level of knowledge and awareness about the importance of maintaining the ecosystem sustainability.”

The programme received support from the Department of Tourism Terengganu, which aims to promote scuba diving activities as one of the state’s tourism attractions.

Professor Mazlan said that for the programme to achieve its goals it needs support, whether expertise or financial, from government bodies, non-government organizations, corporate bodies, and individuals.

 

Published by:

Corporate Communications Office
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu