Scientific Expedition to Map Biodiversity in Sabah Marine Park Completed

 From September 6–28, 2012, a team of scientists from Malaysia, the Netherlands, and Australia embarked on a three-week scientific expedition to examine coral reef health, marine biodiversity, and the socioeconomic benefits of the proposed one-million-hectare Tun Mustapha Park in Sabah, Malaysia. Data gathered from the expedition will be used to finalize the zoning of the park and raise public awareness about the benefits of protecting and managing marine ecosystems.

 The expedition was supported by USAID’s Coral Triangle Support Partnership in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Sabah Parks, and WWF-Malaysia. The proposed park is home to endangered marine animals such as green sea turtles and dugongs, making it a strategic area for sustainable ecotourism. It also provides a livelihood for 80,000 coastal inhabitants of diverse ethnic groups. CTI-CFF Council of Ministers Chair Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Maximus Ongkili launched the expedition together with representatives of CTI-CFF partners.

Follow this link to watch videos of the Tun Mustapha Park Expedition 2012 

Photos: (Upper right) The Tun Mustapha Expedition team onboard their boat. Credit: E. Madeja/WWF-Malaysia. (Lower right) One of the scientists following a transect line while surveying coral reef health during the expedition. Credit: R. Jumim/WWF-Malaysia.