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KOTA BELUD: One hundred coral reefs were recently nurtured under a conservation programme supported by OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad.

The initiative will benefit over 4,000 coastal indigenous residents in Kota Belud, one of Malaysia’s poorest districts with poverty rates well above the national average.

Monica Chin, founding managing director of One Ocean Empire and One Ocean Nature Conservation Centre, said the organisation focuses on repairing coral reefs to benefit the underprivileged and collaborated with the bank’s Kota Kinabalu branch for this effort.

“We are pleased that OCBC Bank has committed to this initiative, which restores marine life, supports local communities, and benefits over 4,000 indigenous residents. 

“We are also grateful for its RM50,000 contribution towards planting 100 coral reefs,” she said.

Kevin Lim Chang Hui, senior manager at the bank’s Kota Kinabalu branch, said the institution works closely with communities, identifying their needs and addressing them for the long-term good of society.

“Our aspiration to be Asia’s leading financial services partner for a sustainable future goes beyond customers. We also want to help communities around us realise their aspirations,” he added.

The programme falls under the environmental pillar, helping coastal indigenous communities restore damaged coral reefs vital for livelihoods, food security, and climate resilience. 

Rehabilitated reefs attract marine life, support sustainable fishing and conservation, and create opportunities for visitors.

“We travelled three hours from Kota Kinabalu to Usukan Island for the coral reef planting, which gave us a strong sense of pride. 

“We will soon join activities such as transplantation, nursery management, reef monitoring, and community engagement,” he said. The group will also work with local schools and community groups to raise awareness on ocean conservation through workshops, beach clean-ups, and marine campaigns.