Ops Nemo City 2.0 highlights importance of preserving Miri coral reefs
MIRI: Northern Sarawak Journalists Association ( NSJA) is jointly organising a coral reef clean-up campaign with the Fire and Rescue Department Zone 6 and Coco Dive’s Borneo Ghost Nets Hunter.
The ‘ Ops Nemo City 2.0’ is scheduled to kick off at the Marina Bay Jetty here this May 5, at 7.30am.
According to NSJA president Jong Wan Joon, the activity would gather 20 divers representing the three organisations, who would conduct clean-up on the coral reef areas in Miri waters.
“This is our first attempt and joint initiative to clean up the reefs. Marine pollution is a serious matter and we are doing our part to contribute to the (conservation of the) environment,” said Jong in a press statement yesterday.
Jong said the organisers also recently paid a courtesy call on Pujut assemblyman Dr Ting Tiong Choon, who had provided financial support for the campaign.
“It takes everybody’s effort to protect the environment – every little thing counts. We look forward to running this campaign,” said Jong.
Meanwhile, organising chairwoman Choa Yee Hui said the reef clean-up campaign would be run in connection with Miri City Day celebration in May.
“Being a diver, I had explored many places, including our very own Miri reefs. Miri has one of the most beautiful reefs in the region, housing incredible marine life.
“The clean-up initiative would boost marine life and indirectly, I hope to convey the message of the importance of protecting our seas and oceans.”
Choa also regarded the reefs here as playing a huge role in the local tourism industry.
“Therefore, it is hoped that our campaign could raise awareness among the local communities of the fight against marine pollution, as well as to introduce our beautiful reefs to international divers,” said Choa.