KUALA LUMPUR: Managing Malaysia's marine ecosystem must be prioritised to promote it as a diving destination, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, citing the National Marine and Atmospheric Administration findings, said about 84.4% of corals globally were under heat stress between January 2023 and September last year.
He said that 90% of corals in Malaysia were reported to have experienced coral bleaching.
“Without healthy coral reefs, Malaysia will not have a world-class scuba-diving industry domestically.
“Without responsible management, there will also be no sustainable marine tourism economy.
“We must step beyond just selling destinations and focus on managing the ecosystem responsibly,” he said in his speech when opening the Malaysia International Dive Expo here on Friday (June 5).
Tiong’s speech was read by the ministry’s deputy secretary-general (Tourism), Chua Choon Hwa.
The minister also stated the importance of professionalism within the scuba diving industry locally.
He said Malaysia officially has international standards in scuba diving training.
“We will not hesitate to take stern action against unlicensed operators and those who misuse their licences,” he said.
In his speech, Malaysia Scuba Diving Association president Aminor Azmi Abdul Latip said the global geopolitical crisis has impacted how the scuba industry operates.
He also urged operators to ensure they hold valid licences in accordance with the Tourism Industry Act.
The event’s organiser, Ness Puvanes, said Malaysia has an estimated 500,000 certified divers.
