Marine Ecosystems

As part of the “Planting Tomorrow” effort by Yayasan PETRONAS, the Seagrass Mapping and Community-Based Programme initiative aims to strengthen conservation in Malaysia and empower communities to build resilience against climate change.

Protecting Life Below Water

Malaysia’s rich coastal ecosystems sustain both biodiversity and livelihoods. In 2023, recognising the urgent need for seagrass protection, Yayasan PETRONAS established a strategic partnership with the Department of Fisheries (DOF) and the Sabah Biodiversity Centre (SaBC) to launch the Seagrass Mapping and Community-Based Programme. This initiative aims to map seagrass ecosystems, assess their ecological and economic value, and promote sustainable marine resource management.

Integrating Science and Education for Seagrass Conservation

In collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Malaya (UM), and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), the programme integrates Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) with scientific mapping to better understand the extent of Malaysia’s seagrass meadows and strengthen long-term stewardship

Empowering Coastal Communities as Conservation Partners

Through education, outreach, and the active involvement of local fishermen in monitoring activities, the programme helps coastal communities appreciate the ecological and economic importance of seagrass ecosystems. By empowering these communities as partners in conservation, it fosters shared responsibility and enhances local resilience to environmental change.