Tan: Tackling pollution crucial to strengthening the resilience of Malaysia’s coral reefs.
Coral bleaching has had significant impact on Malaysia’s reefs as some areas have experienced severe bleaching this year.
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) Faculty of Science and Marine Environment senior lecturer Assoc Prof Dr James Tan Chun Hong said many of the bleached shallow reefs were dead, though some were in the process of recovering as they were gradually regaining colour.
He added that the northeast monsoon, which starts in November, may offer some relief, particularly for coral reefs around Terengganu.
“When the northeast monsoon arrives, it will cool down sea temperatures through heavy rainfall, helping to ease heat stress causing widespread bleaching,” said Tan to StarMetro.
“However, the monsoon also brings new challenges.”
“Strong waves and increased freshwater runoff from the rain can create different types of stress on coral reefs.
“The sudden influx of freshwater, combined with turbulent seas, can further damage vulnerable coral ecosystems.
“Reducing human activities during these periods will help minimise additional stress on the reefs.
“Less activity means lower levels of pollution, less physical damage to the corals and reduced use of freshwater from island sources,” said Tan.
He added that there was also a need to strengthen the resilience of Malaysia’s coral reefs to withstand such environmental challenges.
“This can be achieved by tackling pollution, which remains one of the major human-induced threats.
“For instance, improving sewerage treatment systems on islands and reducing oil pollution from boats would go a long way towards protecting reefs.
“Educating tourists – both local and international – about responsible behaviour when visiting these delicate ecosystems is equally important.”
He also suggested certain reef areas should be designated as conservation zones, restricting human access to allow for natural recovery.
In the long term, Tan said Malaysia, like many other nations, must take action to reduce its carbon footprint.
“Rising global temperatures driven by greenhouse gas emissions are a major cause of coral bleaching events worldwide.
“All Malaysians need to play their part by reducing carbon emissions,” said Tan, adding that addressing climate change was key to preventing future bleaching events and ensuring the survival of these critical marine ecosystems.
The Fisheries Department issued a statement in June, saying that over half of coral reefs in Malaysian waters had been affected by coral bleaching between April and June due to increased sea surface temperatures.
Particularly affected were islands in four Peninsular Malaysia states: Pulau Payar (Kedah); Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Redang and Pulau Tenggol (Terengganu); Pulau Tioman (Pahang) and Pulau Pemanggil (Johor).
