U.S. Support to the Coral Triangle Initiative

Malaysia Completes Scientific Expedition to Map Biodiversity in Sabah Marine Park

A researcher follows a transect line while counting species during the expedition Photo: R. Jumin/WWF Malaysia

On September 6-26, 2012, a team of scientists from Malaysia, the Netherlands and Australia undertook a three-week scientific expedition that examined coral reef health, marine biodiversity, and the socioeconomic benefits in the proposed one-million hectare Tun Mustapha Park in Sabah, Malaysia. Data gathered from the expedition will be used to finalize the zoning of the park and raise public awareness on the benefits of protecting a

A giant clam seen during the expedition Photo: R.Jumin/WWF-Malaysia

nd managing marine ecosystems.The expedition was supported by USAID's Coral Triangle Support Partnership in collaboration Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Sabah Parks and WWF-Malaysia. The proposed park is home to endangered marine animals, such as green sea turtles and dugongs making it a strategic area for sustainable ecotourism. It is also source of livelihood for 80,000 coastal inhabitants of diverse ethnic groups.