KOTA KINABALU: Divers are set to attempt a world record of sorts for the longest ghost net clean-up as they meet during the Asia Dive Expo (Adex) Sabah Ocean Partnership Summit here in August.
The ambitious attempt is to capture the world's attention by setting a record for the clean-up dubbed "Ghost Net Hunters - 23 Hours” in waters off the city here.
Adex Sabah is scheduled to take place from Aug 18-20 at the Sabah International Convention Center (SICC), with the ghost net clean-up to take place on Aug 20.
This initiative falls under the Adex Sabah corporate social responsibility programme, aiming to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and conserve Sabah's precious marine environment.
It will feature two Adex ambassadors, Hong Kong actress Hidy Yu, and Guinness World Record Swimmer Ben Lecomte.
The Sabah Tourism Board, with the Adex Sabah team and various government agencies, discussed preparations and logistics assistance for the event here Wednesday (June 14).
State Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, said that ADEX Sabah's initiative gives recognition to the gravity of ghost net issues.
"The event will not only raise awareness about the threats posed by ghost nets but also inspire greater involvement in initiatives that protect Sabah's natural resources.
"Through this remarkable feat, we seek to foster a sense of responsibility and empower communities to actively participate in preserving the pristine beauty of Sabah's marine environment for generations to come," Bangkuai said.
Ghost nets, which are abandoned or lost fishing nets, pose a severe threat to marine life, entangling and endangering numerous species.
The "Ghost Net Hunters - 23 Hours" initiative will bring together a team of divers who will strive to remove as many ghost nets as possible within a continuous 23-hour period, showcasing their commitment to preserving the marine environment.
Bangkuai also urged all local dive operators to unite and actively participate in Adex Sabah, emphasising the significant benefits it can bring.
"I see Adex Sabah as not only a platform for marketing but also an opportunity to gain valuable insights into the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the dive industry.
"Local participants can attend seminars, workshops, and presentations by industry experts, which can help them stay updated with the latest developments and improve their services," he said, adding that the importance of unity and collaboration among local dive operators to foster a vibrant and sustainable diving ecosystem in Sabah.
Adex Sabah project director Theresa Tham said the event aimed to create awareness to protect and conserve Sabah as a premium dive destination.
"We hope to reach out to all dive professionals, businesses, and enthusiasts to come together and experience this international dive expo.
"There will be a variety of topics of interest covered that complement, enhance, and inspire steps forward in the tourism and diving industry, further improving the industry," she added.
