Kuala Lumpur: Meraki Daat Initiative emerged as one of five winners in the prestigious Malaysia Island Innovation Challenge, a competition celebrating innovative solutions for island communities.
Its winning project, Dive and Build, combines marine conservation with sustainable construction, using eco-bricks made from recycled ocean plastics, a revolutionary approach to environmental sustainability.
Meraki Daat Initiative is a non-profit NGO dedicated to empowering marginalised communities and preserving the environment and is registered with the Malaysian Registrar of Societies.
Founded by Michelle de la Harpe, Meraki Daat’s Dive and Build initiative tackles two pressing issues, marine ecosystem restoration and plastic waste management.
Divers collect ocean plastics, which are then transformed into durable eco-bricks for infrastructure projects, including community centres, schools, tourism facilities, and roads, addressing both pollution and local development needs.
The victory reinforces Sabah’s position as a leader in eco-tourism and sustainable innovation.
The project also garnered support from key stakeholders, including Deputy Chief Minister III, Datuk Shahelmey Yahya and Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jimit, who have pledged their commitment to advancing sustainable development in the State.
“Dive and Build is a game-changer. By merging marine conservation with sustainable construction, we are not only protecting our oceans but also creating economic opportunities,” said Michelle.
“Sabah’s rich biodiversity and thriving tourism sector make it the perfect model for global eco-tourism,” she added.
Meanwhile, Project Picasso – Eco Bricks Project Manager Adora Sharihman said the win is a milestone for Sabah.
“Dive and Build proves that innovation can drive both environmental preservation and community development, setting a benchmark for island conservation worldwide,” Adora added.
Moving forward, Meraki Daat aims to expand partnerships, scale its initiatives and strengthen Sabah’s reputation as a hub for sustainable tourism and ocean conservation.
