KUCHING: The Sarawak government’s Reef Ball Project has been recognised for its outstanding achievement as the longest artificial reef project in the world.
In light of this, the Reef Ball Foundation of USA chairman Todd Ryan Barber presented a special certificate and plaque to Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development permanent secretary Datuk Zaidi Mahdi, witnessed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Minister of Urban Planning, Land Administration, and Environment Datuk Len Talif, and Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) chief executive officer (CEO) Zolkipli Mohamad Aton.
The presentation took place during the courtesy call from SFC and The Reef Ball Foundation of USA to the Premier on Monday (July 10).
This recognition serves to honour the Sarawak Reef Ball Project, an initiative driven by the Sarawak government, which stands as a testament to the government’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to sustainable practices and the protection of Sarawak’s marine biodiversity.
SFC said under the visionary leadership of the Premier, the state government has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and the conservation of natural resources.
“Recognising the paramount importance of marine conservation, the government has provided steadfast support to SFC in its tireless efforts to maintain marine ecosystems and protect coastal areas.
“The allocation of RM70 million for Projek Rakyat Phase 1, along with an additional RM30 million for Phase 2, further underscores the government’s dedication to this cause,” it said in a statement.
As the implementing agency, SFC said it has has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives to preserve marine life and responsibly manage Sarawak’s diverse marine ecosystems.
“The government’s unwavering support and the Premier have played a pivotal role in enabling SFC to successfully execute projects like the Sarawak Reef Ball Project, which has now set a global benchmark as the longest artificial reef project,” it said.
Expressing profound gratitude for the recognition, Abang Johari reaffirmed the government’s resolute dedication to environmental stewardship.
The Sarawak Reef Ball Project exemplifies the state’s proactive approach to marine conservation efforts and sustainable development, aligning seamlessly with the Sarawak government’s long-term vision outlined in the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
SFC and The Reef Ball Foundation of USA also extended their appreciation to the Premier for his exemplary leadership and unwavering support for environmental sustainability in Sarawak.
Also present during the courtesy visit were SFC Deputy Chief Executive Officer I Abang Arabi Abang Aimran; SFC Head of Fauna Research and Conservation (Marine) Section James Bali; Pembinaan Tukun Bebola (Sarawak) Sdn Bhd CEO Wilson Mapus; and Reef Innovations Inc president Larry D. Beggs.
