The Reef Dive Resort, well known for its conservation programmes, is hosting its 3rd Reef Ball Coral Conservation Project. The start of the three-day event coincides with World Ocean Day on 8 June. Located on the island of Mataking, the resort is a 45-minute boat ride from Semporna.

Reef balls are constructed using a special type of concrete that doesn’t react with corals. After being prepared, the balls are deployed in strategic positions around the island’s reefs. This year, tour operators Ocean Explorer, together with Pacific Dome from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, organised the collection of broken and damaged corals to be planted onto the reef balls. The corals collected are being identified, measured, photographed and recorded for future monitoring.

Each buddy team of divers will be assigned to a numbered reef ball, and specially trained dive guides will be on hand to assist divers. A marine scientist will also be present to advise divers on planting corals to ensure optimal chances for survival and growth. With each coral garden created, marine life will have more homes to choose from.

The Minister of Tourism for Sabah, YB Tan Sri Datuk Chong Kah Kiat will officially launch the Reef Ball project. International guests from Europe, Japan, Taiwan and other countries in the Asia-Pacific will participate.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 15th, 2006 at 3:12 pm and is filed under Destinations.