MIRI: Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) today marked a significant milestone in advancing marine conservation efforts with the official launching of its first marine research vessel under the COREEFS Project.

According to a statement by SFC, the ceremony was held at UKPS Jetty and officiated by Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh.

“The newly launched vessel will serve as a dedicated platform to support scientific research and monitoring activities, particularly in the survey of marine mammals such as dolphins, as well as broader marine biodiversity within Sarawak waters.

“The development of the vessel was made possible through funding support from Bintulu Port Authority, following a strategic collaboration formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SFC under the COREEFS Project.

“This initiative underscores the importance of partnerships in strengthening conservation capacity and research capabilities in the state,” it said on Monday.

The COREEFS Project is a key initiative aimed at enhancing marine ecosystem conservation, including coral reef rehabilitation and long-term biodiversity monitoring in Sarawak’s marine protected areas.

Datuk Len highlighted the importance of strengthening scientific capacity in marine
conservation efforts.

“This vessel represents a strategic investment in Sarawak’s commitment towards sustainable marine resource management.

“It will enhance our capability to conduct scientific research, particularly in marine mammal monitoring, and support evidence-based decision-making in protecting our marine ecosystems for future generations,” he said.

Meanwhile, SFC General Manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran described the launch as a pivotal step forward for marine conservation efforts in Sarawak.

“The commissioning of this vessel marks a significant advancement in SFC’s capacity to undertake dedicated marine research, particularly in understanding and protecting our marine mammals and ecosystems.

“Through the COREEFS Project and strong collaboration with partners such as Bintulu Port Authority, we are strengthening our scientific foundation to ensure informed conservation and sustainable management of Sarawak’s marine resources,” he said.

He added that the vessel will enhance field operations, enabling more systematic data collection and supporting evidence-based conservation strategies.

The launch of this vessel reflects SFC’s continued commitment towards safeguarding Sarawak’s rich marine biodiversity and reinforcing its role in leading conservation initiatives at both the national and regional levels. -UKASnews