PENANG, 2 May 2026 – A delegation from Taman-Taman Sabah (Sabah Parks) recently paid a courtesy visit to the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)’s Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) as part of their official working visit to the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve.

The one-day visit on 18 April, conducted in collaboration with the Penang Hill Corporation, brought together a delegation of 16 representatives led by Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Sabah Parks, Datuk Peter Lintar; and Director of Sabah Parks, Datuk Dr. Marklarin Lakim, along with board members, senior officials, and technical personnel.

Upon arrival, the delegation was warmly received by the CEMACS team comprised of the Director, Associate Professor Dr. Mahadi Mohammad and staff, before proceeding to a formal briefing session delivered by honorary professor and former director, Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai.

The briefing provided an overview of CEMACS’ mandate, highlighting its multidisciplinary research in marine and coastal ecosystems, as well as its role in supporting national and regional sustainability agendas.

Particular emphasis was placed on ongoing initiatives related to biodiversity conservation, blue economy, habitat restoration, and nature-based solutions which align closely with the conservation priorities of Sabah Parks.

The discussion also included topics on marine spatial planning which was spearheaded by the Deputy Director of the Centre for Policy Research USM, Associate Professor Dr. Sazlina Salleh.

The session also served as an avenue for knowledge exchange, where both parties shared experiences and approaches in managing protected areas, including biosphere reserves and marine parks.

Discussions touched on governance frameworks, community engagement, and the integration of science into policy and management practices, reflecting shared interests in strengthening environmental stewardship across Malaysia.

“Building on Penang Hill Corporation’s established sustainable tourism model and the biodiversity significance of the Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve, the study visit by Taman-Taman Sabah was further enriched through the involvement of CEMACS.

“Their internationally recognised expertise in coastal and marine conservation added depth to the programme, fostering a more integrated, science-driven exchange,” reflected Dr. Yang Kok Lee, Senior Project Officer at Penang Hill Corporation, who accompanied the delegates during the visit.

Following the briefing, the delegation was taken on a guided tour of CEMACS facilities. This included visits to research laboratories, hatchery systems, and fieldwork support areas, where participants were introduced to current projects and technological applications in coastal and marine research.

The tour provided a closer look at how scientific research is translated into practical solutions for ecosystem management and conservation.

The visit concluded on a positive note, reinforcing the importance of inter-agency collaboration and continuous knowledge sharing.

It is hoped that this engagement will pave the way for future partnerships between Taman-Taman Sabah, Penang Hill Corporation, and CEMACS in advancing conservation efforts and sustainable management of protected areas nationwide.

Text & Photo: Dr. Annette Jaya-Ram, Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe