MIRI: Sarawak launched its first marine research vessel under the Coral Reef and Reef Ball for Ecosystem Enhancement and Stewardship (COREEFS) project at the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) Jetty here today (Apr 20).
Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Deputy Minister Datuk Len Talif Salleh said the vessel would strengthen the state’s capacity in marine conservation and scientific research.
“This vessel represents a strategic investment in Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable marine resource management.
“It will enhance our capability to conduct scientific research, particularly in marine mammal monitoring, and support evidence-based decision-making in protecting our marine ecosystems for future generations,” he said when officiating at the ceremony.
The vessel was developed with funding support from Bintulu Port Authority (BDA) following a collaboration formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) under the COREEFS project.
SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said the initiative would strengthen conservation efforts, including supporting evidence-based strategies.
He added that the vessel would improve field operations and enable more systematic data collection.
“The commissioning of this vessel marks an advancement in SFC’s capacity to undertake dedicated marine research, particularly in understanding and protecting our marine mammals and ecosystems.
“Through the COREEFS project and strong collaboration with partners such as BDA, we are strengthening our scientific foundation to support informed conservation and sustainable management of Sarawak’s marine resources,” he said.
The COREEFS project focuses on strengthening marine ecosystem conservation through research, restoration, and collaboration with strategic partners.
