
Reef Check Malaysia (RCM), an NGO established in 2007, is part of the worldwide Reef check network. RCM works on coral reef monitoring, environmental education and engaging communities in marine conservation with collaboration, research and advocacy.
What do they do?
EcoAction
Through their EcoAction programme RCM teach certified divers how to do surveys on coral reefs, then every year a survey of coral reefs around Malaysia is organized. Today more than 1000 divers have been trained which allows RCM to collect data in over 300 reef sites.
Science
RCM conducts research on coral reefs to improve their understanding of it. One programme is dedicated to the rehabilitation of specific coral reefs, and their resilience is studied through surveys in various islands.
Advocacy
Education and awareness programmes play an important role in the protection of coral reefs.
Community involvement
RCM is committed to the involvement of local communities in the “management and conservation of their island’s resources”.
How can you help?
Your donation directly benefits their needs:
- 20$: create public awareness on marine conservation and its issues
- 25$: policy advocacy and collaboration with government agencies
- 30$: removal of ghost nets and oil spills clean-ups
- 40$: installation of mooring buoys to prevent boat anchor damage to reefs
- 50$: training and certification relating to marine tourism
- 100$; restoring coral reefs through rehabilitation efforts and maintenance
- 200$: skills training courses for local marine conservation groups
If you are a certified diver you can participate in a training session to learn how to do Reef Check surveys and protect coral reefs.
In September, all volunteers are welcome to participate in the International Coastal Cleanup Day.
EXO Foundation support
EXO Foundation has supported RCM with a donation that will go into the implementation of a waste management system in Selakan Island. The island suffers severe environmental challenges due to improper waste disposal, thus the community has requested a waste management system. A community-based approach will be implemented where households segregate waste and the authorities transport it to the mainland to be recycled when possible.
A recycling learning lab will also be created to raise awareness among tourists and local while generating income with recycled products.