NSJA Launches Underwater Cleanup Operation in Northern Sarawak, Aims to Clear 100kg of 'Ghost Nets' from Miri-Sibuti Coral Reefs Park

(Miri, 25th) – The Northern Sarawak Journalists Association (NSJA) today launched its “Underwater Cleanup Operation” at the Miri–Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park, demonstrating the association’s long-term commitment to marine conservation in the Northern Sarawak region.

This project has been ongoing since 2019 and has now entered its sixth year, becoming one of NSJA’s most representative environmental activities, with the aim of safeguarding Sarawak’s unique marine biodiversity.

The Miri–Sibuti Coral Reefs National Park is one of Malaysia’s richest areas of marine biodiversity, home to spectacular coral reef ecosystems and diverse marine life. However, in recent years, the waters have faced threats from “ghost nets” (abandoned fishing nets) and an overpopulation of crown-of-thorns starfish (COT), both of which seriously harm coral reefs and the ecosystem.

This year, NSJA has set a clear target: to remove at least 100 kilograms of ghost nets from two key dive sites, including the Kenyalang Wreck at about 22 meters depth and Batu Belais at 18 meters depth. Among them, Batu Belais requires not only the removal of 50 kilograms of abandoned nets but also the eradication of coral-damaging crown-of-thorns starfish, as signs of potential coral bleaching have already been detected there.

At the flag-off ceremony held at Marina Jetty, NSJA President Chai Chon Chin stated that this is the first of two consecutive underwater cleanup operations, starting at Batu Belais and with the second phase set for September at the Kenyalang Wreck dive site.

“Ghost nets are the ‘silent killers’ of the sea-floor; they entangle fish, sea turtles, rays, and even dolphins, while also smothering coral reefs. By removing them, we are rescuing countless marine animals and giving coral ecosystems a chance to recover.”

He pointed out that since 2019, the association has successfully removed more than 200 kilograms of ghost nets in this area, achieving significant results. In addition to underwater conservation, the association is also actively launching beach cleanup activities, with the next beach cleanup scheduled for October.

Chai Chon Chin thanked Organising Chair Clare Cinderella and her team for their diligent planning and also acknowledged the technical support divers for their expertise, which ensured the operation’s safety and efficiency.

“Conservation is not the responsibility of a few, but our collective mission. Protecting the ocean means protecting our future.”

After the ceremony, the dive team immediately began underwater cleanup in the park’s waters, taking a step forward in safeguarding Sarawak’s vital marine ecosystem.