Merdeka Dive 2025 Launched in to Protect Marine Ecosystem

nabalunews
Aug 16
1 min read

16 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Merdeka Dive 2025 was officially launched today by First Admiral Kamalrulzaman bin Zainul Ahkmar, Submarine Admiral, in a meaningful effort to protect and restore Sabah’s marine ecosystem. The event brought together 80 divers representing government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and academic institutions.

Participating organisations included the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), Marine Police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), Sabah Parks, Deus Diving Club, HYTECH-POMMEC, and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).

The initiative, held in conjunction with the Merdeka season, focuses on the scientific restoration of coral structures while raising public awareness about the importance of preserving marine biodiversity. It also aims to foster stronger collaboration between government bodies and NGOs, with support from UMS marine biologists who provide scientific guidance and technical expertise. Additionally, divers will carry out underwater clean-up operations, targeting marine debris and controlling harmful species such as sea urchins and crown-of-thorns starfish, both known for their destructive impact on coral reefs.

First Admiral Kamalrulzaman, in his address, emphasised the significance of environmental stewardship as a patriotic duty, stating that the programme embodies the spirit of unity and shared responsibility in safeguarding the nation’s natural heritage.