Ocean trash: A diver from the Marine Research Foundation carefully retrieving a plastic bottle from the seabed.
KOTA KINABALU: Other than picking up 105kg of trash, 36 divers also rescued marine life caught illegally in fish traps at a marine park here.
Braving strong winds and choppy seas, the volunteers took part in an underwater clean-up mission initiated by the Marine Research Foundation (MRF) at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, some 3km from here, last Saturday.
In total, they collected some 105kg of trash including plastic bottles and containers.
The divers – comprising members of the Sabah Scuba Diving Club, Spartanz Dragon Boat Malaysia Coast Guard, Reef Check Malaysia and Seagrass Guardians, among others – also freed the marine life stuck in illegal fish traps.
“Three batfish trapped within the confines of the illicit apparatus were released back into the ocean.
“Their liberation served as a symbol of hope and sent a reminder of the importance of dismantling such traps to protect marine life,” said MRF conservation officer Brittany Chang yesterday.She said the volunteers had braved the stormy conditions to make a positive impact on marine conservation.
“Armed with determination and a shared love for the ocean, they overcame the odds and accomplished remarkable results,” she added.
The event was held in collaboration with Sabah Parks, Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and Sabah Dive Rangers.
Chang said the local council had helped with handling the collected trash, ensuring proper waste disposal and reinforcing responsible and sustainable practices during the clean-up.
She also said the non-governmental organisation is planning a mega underwater clean-up mission in conjunction with the upcoming International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) Day 2023 in September.
She said the event would provide another opportunity for people to join forces and work towards a cleaner ocean and healthier marine ecosystem.
