KOTA KINABALU: Reef Check Malaysia (RCM) has urged the government to introduce more sustainable tourism models for the conservation of marine ecosystems.
RCM, in a statement, said it had surveyed 323 coral reef sites nationwide last year and found a "fair" level of live coral cover, at 47.83 per cent.
"This is a slight increase from the previous year's surveys (44.26 per cent), and it continues an upward trend noted since last year's surveys, reversing a decline that started in 2015.
"RCM believes that the improving trend is due to the significant reduction in tourist numbers to coral reefs during the Covid-19 pandemic.
"One of the report's recommendations is that temporary site closures should be considered as a management measure for the conservation of marine ecosystems," the statement read.
In Sabah, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park (TARP) here, Kapalai in Semporna and Usukan Cove in Kota Belud have more than half of their coral in poor condition.
The condition of five-island TARP was below the North Borneo region average of 43.31 per cent, with the disturbance indicators extremely high.
"Rubble level is very high at all sites. The level is especially high at Base Camp, Mamutik, Manukan West and Sulug, all sites recorded over 50 per cent.
"All are considered signs of unhealthy reefs. While available substrate for coral recruits to attach is very high, high levels of disturbance indicators may deter coral growth if they are not dealt with."
At Kapalai, RCM reported that corals were impacted by boat anchors, discarded fishing nets and trash, fish bombing, and drupella predation. All sites were impacted by warm water bleaching.
As for Usukan Cove survey site, sand and rubble levels are high at Pandan-Pandan and Uban-Uban, while Usukan Cove Lodge recorded high silt level.
Drupella predation and fishing activities were observed at Usukan.
RCM general manager Julian Hyde said that the government has to intensify efforts to protect Malaysia's coral reefs, with the hope that more pro-active actions will be taken to conserve and protect them.
"By doing so, we can ensure the protection of our marine ecosystem, as well as livelihoods and food security.
"Reefs provide not only food, but also important jobs for many coastal communities in Malaysia, and they are an important tourism product."
The survey programme was conducted together with partners from Department of Fisheries, island communities and trained volunteers.
Full report can be read at https://www.reefcheck.org.my/reports