MSU brings knowledge transfer benefits to environment and community
Eco-Marine Youth Expedition MyCoral 2.0 continues sustainability efforts by Management and Science University (MSU)
Coral reefs and their associated flora and fauna form a key natural habitat for numerous marine life forms including commercial fish species. Exposed to various stressors, either naturally occurring or human-caused, their decline is a threat to sustainability. Management and Science University (MSU) brings the benefits of translational research to the waters of Geluk Island Terengganu and to the local community.
MyCoral 2.0 picked up from where the
first edition
had left off. Progress checks on the starter corals were supplemented by the planting of new ones. Lessons on care of both corals and turtles were taken from local-authority marine biologists, and mangrove saplings planted, as the health and extent of coral reefs can be helped on by the turtle population as well as the coastal mangrove forest.
The MyCoral project by Management and Science University (MSU) aims to benefit both nature and society. Its long-term views are to encourage marine biology research in Malaysia as well as to boost the country’s eco-tourism potential through the development of new eco-parks. The planting of starter corals seeks to give life to an artificial reef, and consequently to propagate it into a brand new marine ecosystem.
Other than promoting understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of Malaysia’s marine heritage, MyCoral is also a knowledge transfer programme aiming to lift the local economy. Educating the local community on the importance of corals and ways to sustain them is an education in socio-entrepreneurship as coral propagation for income is also encouraged.
Leading the way to environmental sustainability practices, the team from Management and Science University (MSU) engaged with the community of Kampung Mangkok to clean up the beach and the local mosque. Health checks were also performed on the villagers. The Eco-Marine Youth Expedition wrapped up with the MSUrians learning survival skills and using them in an Explorace.
MyCoral 2.0 counted the participation of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS); Bachelor in Medical Sciences; Bachelor in Outdoor, Leisure & Adventure Management; and Diploma in Outdoor, Leisure & Adventure Management students of Management and Science University (MSU).
MyCoral is one of ten projects delivering the Management and Science University (MSU) commitment to environmental sustainability. Thanks to its five-year research grant, ten custom-made hexagonal iron-rod tower frames currently lay on the seabed off the shores of Geluk Island, bearing Agropora and Staghorn starter corals.