TOURIST-FRIENDLY ARTIFICIAL REEF LAUNCHED IN PULAU PAYAR

LANGKAWI (Malaysia), Dec 5 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Marine Parks
Department Thursday 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 (Payar Island) off this northern island
resort.

The department's director-general, Abd Jamal Mydin said the artificial
reef, made of ceramic worth RM100,000 (US$27,293), 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 (US$2.73 million) was allocated for
the conservation of marine parks under the 9th Malaysian Plan.
-- BERNAMA