Amidst the hive of development activities in the Iskandar Malaysia region, it may be easy to overlook the significant environmental value of the ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrasses.
These sensitive areas could be adversely impacted by the development projects currently underway in the state of Johor. Not only do these ecosystems form the bedrock for biodiversity conservation and fisheries, they also support eco-tourism economies and other activities that contribute much to the communities' livelihood.
Recently, three out of Malaysia's five Ramsar sites (important wetlands as designated by the international Ramsar Convention) were all revealed to be located in Johor.
Found in Sungai Pulai, Pulau Kukup and Tanjung Piai, respectively, these designations further illustrate the fundamental ecological importance of the wetlands, as well as their economic, cultural, scientific and recreational value.
The Tanjung Piai wetland, for instance, consists of coastal mangroves, intertidal mudflats, and rich fauna biodiversity. The Tanjung Piai acts as a corridor that connects Pulau Kukup with the Sungai Pulai wetlands. A mangrove island surrounded by mudflats, Pulau Kukup was officially designated a State Park in 1997 for habitat conservation and preservation, as well as to promote eco-tourism and research.
The Sungai Pulai wetland, meanwhile, consists of mangroves (estuarine as well as riverine), intertidal mudflats, seagrass beds and freshwater riverine forests. This area remains as the largest intact block of mangrove forest in Johor and the largest remaining intact riverine mangrove area in Peninsular Malaysia.
Positioned within the vicinity of these precious areas, the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) and the Johor Port Berhad (JPB) have been actively contributing to environmental stewardship via a series of programs to ensure environmental sustainability and coastal community wellbeing.
The ports' corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies are aligned to their business priorities and are in tandem with responsibility towards shareholders, communities, governmental agencies, employees and the environment.
Example policies include funding and support services towards preserving the environment, sustaining local communities, educational development, and promoting healthy and sustainable lifestyles.
Against the background of an enduring resolution to benefit different stakeholders, as well as environmental conservation in a structured and forward-thinking manner, a study is currently underway to develope the terms and scope for a research program funded by the JPB, with a specific focus on conservation of the Sungai Pulai area.
Cheryl Rita Kaur
Centre for Coastal and Marine Environment
Maritime Institute of Malaysia
Image Source: Smim90 at Malay Wikipedia
