Terengganu: The Terengganu government will hold an engagement session next week with various quarters, including representatives from the Department of Fisheries Malaysia, tourism operators, and researchers, to discuss coral reef damage at Pulau Redang here. State Tourism, Culture, Environment, and Climate Change Committee chairman Datuk Razali Idris said the session, scheduled from Sept 7 to 9, is crucial to obtaining an accurate assessment of the condition of the coral reefs and identifying the best measures to ensure the continued preservation and sustainability of the island's marine ecosystem.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the discussions would cover issues including boat relocation and operations, as well as proposals to limit the number of tourists and diving activities. Razali emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns promptly, warning that without intervention, Pulau Redang could lose its beauty and underwater attractions in 20 to 25 years. Razali plans to personally inspect the condition of the coral reefs over the three-day session.

However, Razali noted that preliminary information from the Department of Fisheries Malaysia indicated that the extent of coral reef damage at the resort island remains manageable, although ongoing restoration efforts are necessary. The damage is attributed primarily to natural factors rather than tourism activities, which have been blamed by various parties.

Razali stated that proposals for new guidelines would be considered if additional control measures are deemed necessary to protect the coral reef ecosystem. He highlighted that environmental factors, such as changes in currents, hot weather, and climate change, are largely responsible for the damage, rather than the actions of divers or boat operators.