#NSTviral: Redang coral reefs deteriorating amid overtourism, poor awareness [WATCH]
KUALA LUMPUR: Coral reefs around Pulau Redang are showing signs of continued deterioration, with increasing tourist activity, anchoring practices and low awareness among some visitors placing added pressure on the island’s marine ecosystem.
![#NSTviral: Redang coral reefs deteriorating amid overtourism, poor awareness [WATCH]](/img/2897412)
Redang coral reefs are deteriorating due to overtourism, anchoring practices, and low awareness among visitors, according to a recent Instagram video. The video, created by @N.muif, showcased data collected by Reef Check after the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. The coral reefs' condition had continued to decline year by year, said the video.
The main pressure on the marine ecosystem was attributed to the concentration of tourists at specific snorkelling sites, causing stress to the coral reefs. Another concern was the shortage of mooring buoys, leading boats to anchor on the seabed, damaging the reefs, including restoration areas. Awareness among some tourists and day-trip operators was also low, with visitors stepping on coral reefs and taking sea cucumbers, unaware that these actions were harmful.
The increasing number of visitors contributed to more solid waste on the island. However, Redang could still be saved if immediate action was taken, the video stated. The video garnered attention online, with suggestions for better enforcement, training for day-trip operators, and stricter rules for boat operators and guides.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
