Bernama 4 Dec 08;
LANGKAWI, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Marine Parks Department today launched a tourist-friendly artificial reef as a recreational outlet and a catalyst to increase coral reefs and fish breeding in the waters that surround Pulau Payar, here.
Its director-general, Abd Jamal Mydin said the artificial reef, made of ceramic worth RM100,000, could increase the marine ecosystem diversity around the island.
"The design of the artificial reef is more dynamic and strong and it was confirmed that its construction did not affect the marine habitat.
"The chosen site is also suitable for tourists who come for scuba diving activity as they could also enjoy the marine life in the reef area," he told reporters after the launch.
Meanwhile, Abd Jamal said the department would continue to upgrade the condition of marine parks nationwide by conducting proactive research pertaining to the conservation of marine life.
"Among others, we would acquire international marine life experts to train our staff," he said adding that RM10 million was allocated for the conservation of marine parks under the 9th Malaysian Plan.
