SEMPORNA: The Semporna Professional Divers Association (SPDA) here expressed their concern on the further increase of diving permits in Sipadan given to tour operators.
"Previously, the Sipadan permit was only distributed to 12 tour operators. It has been given to 12 more tour operators in the last two years, increasing the number to 24 tour operators so far.
"More surprisingly on Aug 30 this year, the Sipadan Island regulatory management committee decided to add 13 more operators," said the association spokesperson.
SPDA said the situation was already detrimental for the marine life in Sipadan with the current 24 operators, and it would only get worse with 37 operators which would see 254 visitors per day visiting the island.
The spokesperson added that with 37 boats moving around Sipadan every day, marine life would avoid the reefs and go deeper into the sea.
Such a scenario would threaten Sipadan's status as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world.
"SPDA urges authorities and the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry to take serious action regarding this matter for the sake of protecting our gems.
"The unique attraction of Sipadan Island is very beneficial to the country's economy and provides more job opportunities to Malaysians.
"It is also why Sabah, especially Semporna, has become a choice for foreign tourists as their vacation destination.
He added that the short notice to enforce the new ruling this Saturday is also affecting existing dive operators' operations, which are already booked in advance by divers for the next few months.
As of press time, the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry and Sabah Parks have yet to respond on the issue.