Divers collect 105kg of trash, rescue batfish in KK waters

A diver from the Marine Research Foundation carefully retrieving a plastic bottle from the seabed. -Photo by Jackson Tang

KOTA KINABALU: Thirty-six volunteer divers braved strong winds and choppy seas to retrieve trash in an underwater clean-up at the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, some 3km from here.

And not only did the divers collect some 105kg of rubbish consisting primarily of plastic bottles and packaging, they also freed marine life stuck in illegal fish traps.

The divers found the traps while combing the seabed during the initiative organised by local marine NGO Marine Research Foundation (MRF) on Saturday (July 15).

“During the removal, three batfish trapped within the illicit apparatus were released back into the ocean,” MRF conservation officer Brittany Chang said on Thursday (July 20).

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“Their liberation serves as a symbol of hope and stresses the importance of dismantling such traps to protect marine life.

“The clean-up proved to be an extraordinary adventure, with volunteers braving stormy conditions to make a positive impact on marine conservation.

“Armed with determination and a shared love for the ocean, they accomplished remarkable results,” she added.

Besides the MRF, there were also divers from the Sabah Scuba Diving Club, Spartanz Sabah dragon boat team, Malaysia Coast Guard, Reef Check Malaysia and Seagrass Guardians, among others.

The event was held in collaboration with agencies such as Sabah Parks, Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and local group Sabah Dive Rangers.

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“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sabah Parks for its invaluable support and the participation of its own diving team, SParks,” Chang added.

DBKK also provided assistance in handling the collected trash.

“DBKK's... support and collaboration have been pivotal in ensuring proper disposal of the collected debris,” she said.

Meanwhile, Chang said MRF was planning a mega underwater clean-up in conjunction with the upcoming International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) Day which falls on Sept 16 this year.

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She said ICC Day will be another opportunity for individuals to join forces and work towards a cleaner ocean and healthier marine ecosystem.

“We eagerly anticipate the return of the enthusiastic volunteers who took part in this clean-up and also new volunteers from more local agencies and organisations to clean up the reefs of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park.

“The success of this event serves as a testament to the immense impact that collective action can achieve,” she said.