CEMACS LEADS MARINE CONSERVATION EFFORT WITH STRATEGIC RESTOCKING INITIATIVE

USM PENANG, 28 February 2025 – The Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has taken a leading role in a large-scale marine conservation effort with the recent release of 10,000 tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) off the coast of Pulau Betong, Penang.

As a key scientific partner in the Penang South Island (PSI) Ecology Offset Masterplan (PEOM), CEMACS plays a crucial role in ensuring that restocking efforts align with ecological best practices and sustainability goals.

Director of CEMACS, Professor Dato’ Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, emphasised that the initiative is guided by strict scientific criteria to safeguard marine biodiversity.

"Only native species with high survival rates in Penang’s waters are introduced to prevent disruption to the existing ecosystem," she explained.

She added that continuous monitoring and genetic studies would be conducted to track the movement and migratory patterns of the released marine life, ensuring long-term success.

The initiative, which marks a significant milestone in marine conservation, is a collaborative effort between the Penang government, Silicon Island Development Sdn. Bhd., and various government agencies.

Chief Executive Officer of Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (PICSB), Datuk Seri Farizan Darus, highlighted the importance of the restocking programme in supporting PEOM’s broader conservation agenda.

"Beyond reaffirming our commitment to sustainable fisheries, this project serves as a pilot study to assess the impact of fish and shrimp restocking in Penang’s southern waters," he said.

Farizan also acknowledged the contributions of the late Professor Dato’ Dr. Zulfigar Yasin, whose research laid the foundation for PEOM’s ecological framework before his passing on 3 February this year.