Providing eco-friendly waste solutions on idyllic island

Aerial view of the village on Pulau Mantanani.

SEIKO Malaysia is strengthening its commitment to ocean conservation through its latest collaboration with Reef Check Malaysia.

It has embarked on a three-month community-led waste management and recycling programme on Pulau Mantanani, Sabah.

Called Seiko Prospex Save the Ocean, it supports marine conservation activities to give back to the divers’ community.

Thong Sia Sdn Bhd (sole distributor of Seiko timepieces in Malaysia and Brunei) general manager Michael Lim said: “The ocean contains more than 97% of the world’s water, and it provides millions of livelihoods that stimulate local and global economies.

“The objective of the campaign is to prevent the pollution of the local coastal environment as well as to raise awareness of the prevention of marine debris for cleaner, healthier oceans.”

In January alone, 5,872kg of waste were collected from 174 participating homes, 85% of which was food waste.

Without funding to manage the waste and recycling collection, the islanders’ only solution is burning, burying or dumping the trash into the ocean.

Reef Check Malaysia (Sabah) programme manager Adzmin Fatta said it was important to have a proper waste management system on any small or remote island.

“This is to protect the health of the local islanders and the environment while ensuring the island is kept clean to attract tourists,” said Adzmin.

Located 25km off the coast of Sabah, Mantanani is home to 1,024 islanders who face challenges due to its remote location and limited facilities as well as resources for waste management.

The programme also provides alternative incomes to local island communities.

Currently, 10 local islanders are hired to help with the programme, efficiently collecting waste from villages.

The waste management programme transforms the lives of local communities and protects the ocean from pollution.

Reef Check Malaysia is continuously looking for ongoing support in their efforts to combat marine debris.