Semporna takes action against unsustainable tourism
SEMPORNA (June 27): Unsustainable tourism practices such as anchoring on coral reefs, feeding fish, harassing marine wildlife and polluting the ocean remain ongoing concerns in Semporna.
These actions have been frequently reported to Reef Check Malaysia and if left unchecked, will continue to degrade the fragile coral reef ecosystems that are vital to Sabah's marine biodiversity and tourism economy.
In response, Reef Check Malaysia, with support from Green Fins, KePKAS (Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah), and MetLife Foundation, has launched a targeted initiative under its Sustainable Tourism Programme.
As part of this effort, 65 local snorkelling guides across Semporna and other key locations in Sabah have completed the Eco-Friendly Snorkelling Guide Training this year.
Developed by Reef Check Malaysia, the four-day training is the first of its kind to provide standardised guidelines for snorkelling guides in Malaysia. It equips participants with knowledge on marine conservation, responsible tourism practices, and essential lifesaving skills, including CPR and first aid certification.
'This training fills a critical gap. There is currently no formal training for snorkelling guides in Malaysia. By strengthening their understanding of marine conservation and eco-tourism practices, we're not only empowering local guides with valuable skills, but also actively protecting our coral reefs,' said Adzmin Fatta, Programme Manager of Reef Check Malaysia in Sabah.
'We're encouraged by the growing interest and hope to expand this initiative further across Sabah, especially in high-tourism areas like Semporna,' he said.
For many of the participants, the training was a first and eye-opening experience.
'We learned about coral reefs, their importance, and how some of our common guiding practices can harm marine life,' shared Siti Rugaiyah Maadil, a local snorkelling guide.
'Most importantly, we were trained to deliver proper tourist briefings that promote reef-safe behaviour. The first aid session was especially helpful – now I know how to respond if someone is drowning,' she said.
'Although I've been a snorkelling guide for years, this is my first formal training,' added Mohd Fifi Hafizi Bin Amir Hamja.
'I didn't realise that some things we've been doing damage to the reefs. I'm grateful for this opportunity and hope more guides receive similar training – it's not only good for us, but for the reefs we depend on,' said Mohd Fifi.
With the growing pressures of marine tourism, initiatives like this serve as a vital step toward a more sustainable future, one where local communities are both stewards and beneficiaries of a thriving marine ecosystem.
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