Indonesian Navy surveys coral reefs off East Java

The Jakarta Post 27 May 15;

The Indonesian Navy is conducting a survey of the coral reefs off Sine Beach in Tulungagung regency, East Java, team coordinator Maj. Mohammad Asad says.

The team has conducted diving operations down to a depth of 500 meters below sea level to study the various types of coral reefs.

"In addition to identifying the coral reefs, we are also mapping out the areas for coral reef conservation in the southern part of the Tulungagung coastal area," Asad said as quoted by Antara news agency.

According to Asad, the survey will be progressively conducted in the offshore areas of Sine Beach, which covers an area of approximately seven hectares.

He remarked that the Naval personnel will undertake a coral reef conservation program by involving the participation of the local community in mid-August 2015.

Aside from the Naval personnel, the cultivation of coral reefs will also involve environmental activists, tourism offices, students, non-governmental organizations, fishermen and the coastal communities.

"Indonesia's coral reefs are part of the world's coral triangle along with Philippines, Malaysia, Timor Leste, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. It's our duty to preserve the coral reefs," Asad pointed out.

According to the Indonesian Science Institution (LIPI), of the 85,200 square kilometers of coral reefs in Indonesia's maritime territory, approximately 31 percent are in a severely damaged state. (hhr)(++++)

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