Over 130 government and volunteer divers teamed up for underwater clean-ups at islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in Kota Kinabalu. The Royal Malaysian Navy Submarine Force organized the event, called Borneo Ultra Ocean Cleanup, on September 23. Members of the Sabah Diving Squad also participated. Divers from various organizations like the army, marine police, Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency, Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defence Department, National Security Council, and the Fisheries Department were also involved. The cleanup took place at multiple sites, including the Sabah Parks jetty, Mamutik, Manukan, Sulug, and Sapi islands.
The president of the Sabah Diving Squad club, Sim Fui, expressed his hope for more underwater cleanups in the future, stating that club members consistently seek opportunities to improve their competency in scuba diving. He also encouraged these members and other scuba divers to be part of marine conservation efforts. Sim highlighted the importance of participating in underwater cleanup programs to help clear debris from the ocean.
Sim mentioned that the unfavorable weather earlier in the morning initially posed a threat to the program. However, they were fortunate as the weather improved after some waiting time. The visibility and temperature turned out to be suitable for all divers involved. The Sabah Diving Squad club members previously participated in another cleanup organized by the navy, and they have collaborated with organizations like the Marine Research Foundation.
Credit: The Star : News Feed