Cover image via Luminox (Provided to SAYS)
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Luminox is teaming up with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) to protect the coral reefs, one of Malaysia's greatest natural legacies
The Swiss watchmaker is donating part of the proceeds from the worldwide sales of 888 pieces of the Luminox Pirate Watch LM3051.PIR.LE limited edition.
This timepiece celebrates the fearless spirit of the high seas and is now a protector of marine life for future generations.
Malaysia's coral reefs, celebrated amongst the world's most diverse with over 550 hard coral species, form the heart beat of marine heritage
These fragile ecosystems face mounting threats:
- The IPCC SR1.5 (2018) projects a +1.5°C global temperature rise by 2040, a tipping point for coral survival
- For the past two decades, Malaysia has endured mass bleaching events across our pristine islands, such as Perhentian, Redang, Bidong, Kapas, Tioman, and many more
- In 2019, Tropical Storm Pabuk devastated reefs at Pantai Pasir Cina (Pulau Bidong, Terengganu), leaving destruction in its wake
Coral reefs are more than underwater wonders, they are guardians of biodiversity, shields for coastlines, and vital source of livelihood for communities.
At the helm of Malaysia's coral conservation is UMT, home to the renowned Marine Research Station at Pulau Bidong
Through groundbreaking programmes, UMT is shaping the future of coral restoration:
- The Underwater Coral Garden Project (2022-2025): Restoration of over 1,000 corals, sustained through rigorous monitoring
- The "All-For-One" method: An engineered restoration structure proven effective in rehabilitating storm-damaged reefs
- Coral spawning breakthrough: Generating over one million viable coral larvae to enhance reef recovery
- Education and outreach: Immersive initiatives, that empower students, communities, and stakeholders to become stewards of the ocean
"Public awareness should be cultivated widely, even from a young age. Through coral spawning success, we want to show that there is hope in restoring Malaysia's reefs and preserving their beauty for generations to come," said Assoc Prof Dr James Tan
Dr Tan is a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Science and Marine Environment as well as Research Fellow of Institute of Oceanography and Environment at UMT with more than 20 years of expertise in coral research and reef restoration.
