Len Talif (12th right) and SFC staff flash the thumbs-up at the launch of the new marine research vessel.

MIRI (April 20): The Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) launched its first marine research vessel under the Coral Reef and Reef Ball for Ecosystem Enhancement and Stewardship (Coreefs) Project on Monday.

Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh officiated the launch at the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) Jetty here.

SFC said the vessel will serve as a dedicated platform to support scientific research and monitoring activities, particularly for surveying marine mammals such as dolphins, as well as broader marine biodiversity within Sarawak waters.

“The development of the vessel was made possible through funding support from the Bintulu Port Authority, following a strategic collaboration formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SFC under the Coreefs Project.

“This initiative underscores the importance of partnerships in strengthening conservation capacity and research capabilities in the state,” it said in a statement.

SFC added the Coreefs Project is a key initiative aiming to enhance marine ecosystem conservation, including coral reef rehabilitation and long-term biodiversity monitoring in Sarawak’s marine protected areas.

Len Talif in his remarks highlighted the importance of strengthening scientific capacity in marine conservation.

“This vessel represents a strategic investment in Sarawak’s commitment to sustainable marine resource management.

“It will enhance our capability to conduct scientific research, particularly in marine mammal monitoring, and support evidence-based decision-making in protecting our marine ecosystems for future generations,” he said.

Meanwhile, SFC general manager Abang Arabi Abang Aimran said the vessel marked a pivotal step forward for marine conservation efforts in Sarawak.

He noted that the commissioning of the vessel signified a major advancement in SFC’s capacity to undertake dedicated marine research, particularly in understanding and protecting marine mammals and ecosystems.

“Through the Coreefs Project and strong collaboration with partners such as Bintulu Port Authority, we are strengthening our scientific foundation to ensure informed conservation and the sustainable management of Sarawak’s marine resources,” he said.

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