KOTA KINABALU: A major environmental restoration effort is underway with the launch of the Seagrass Planting Programme, aimed at safeguarding Sabah's marine ecosystems.
Initiated by Jetama in partnership with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's Faculty of Science and Technology, the pilot project on Sepanggar Island is set to become a model for future conservation efforts across the state.
Jetama's CEO Ahmad Naim Uddang said the project, which aims to restore subtidal seagrass meadows, was crucial for marine habitats.
"As a forward-thinking company, we understand that corporate responsibility and sustainability are key to long-term success," he said.
Naim added that the Seagrass Planting Programme was part of Jetama's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, targeting environmental preservation and climate action.
"By enhancing blue carbon capture and protecting marine ecosystems, we not only fulfil our environmental duties but also create sustainable value for our stakeholders," he said.
This initiative aligns with Jetama's broader sustainability strategy, integrating environmental goals into core business operations.
The five-day programme involved 15 volunteers, including dive instructors, divemasters from Kota Kinabalu and Semporna, and locals from Pulau Sepanggar.
Seagrass plays a critical role in blue carbon capture, absorbing carbon dioxide up to 35 times faster than rainforests, storing it in its roots and sediments, helping to mitigate climate change.
Beyond carbon capture, seagrass supports marine life like green turtles and dugongs, improves water quality by filtering sediments, and protects coastlines by stabilising the seabed and preventing erosion.
"This makes the seagrass initiative a crucial component of global climate action," Naim added.