New reef structures aim to curb trawling, boost fish stocks, and support eco-tourism growth

Johor has intensified efforts to protect Mersing’s coral reefs, with the Department of Fisheries anchoring 10 artificial reef structures in Pulau Aur as part of its broader marine conservation strategy.

Threatened Corals in Mersing

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, nearly 30 percent of the 261 hard coral species found in Mersing waters are classified as “Near Threatened.” Data from the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park shows that 43 percent of the area is covered by live coral, representing 16 coral families.

Artificial Reefs Against Trawling

The Johor Department of Fisheries anchored 10 cuboid artificial reefs off Pulau Aur on Monday. Department Director Rosmawati Ghazali said the initiative is designed to deter illegal trawling while simultaneously creating a new ecosystem to support fishery stocks.

“This artificial reef anchoring program is part of the department’s strategy to ensure the sustainability of marine resources. It restores capture fisheries productivity, safeguards fishing community livelihoods, and secures the long-term viability of the fisheries sector,” Rosmawati said.

Economic Value of Artificial Reefs

Research conducted in 2020 by the Southeast Asian Marine Resources Institute (ISMAT) and the Fisheries Department found that a single artificial reef site can generate between 129 kg and 6,047 kg of fish biomass, with commercial values of up to RM84,759 (S$24,100).

So far, Johor has installed 247 artificial reef units across 12 locations, with 80 percent in Mersing, including Pulau Tinggi, Pulau Sibu, Pulau Lima, Pulau Besar, Pulau Mertang, and Air Papan. The total estimated economic value of these reefs is RM20 million (S$5.7 million).

Investment in Conservation

This year’s reef anchoring project was funded with RM400,000 (S$113,600) under the 12th Malaysia Plan. The artificial reef program is central to Johor’s vision of sustainable fisheries management, ensuring that marine ecosystems remain productive while reducing destructive fishing practices.

Supporting Tourism and Sustainability

The initiative also aligns with Visit Johor Year 2026, with authorities positioning the islands of Sultan Iskandar Marine Park as a world-class marine tourism destination. Beyond fisheries, the reefs are expected to enhance eco-tourism opportunities while serving as a national model for sustainable biodiversity management.

Johor’s artificial reef programme reflects a dual commitment to conservation and community welfare. By protecting coral ecosystems and bolstering fish stocks, the state not only safeguards biodiversity but also creates long-term economic benefits through fisheries and eco-tourism—making Mersing a cornerstone of sustainable marine management in Malaysia.

Sources: Bernama (2025) , The Star (2025)

Keywords: Johor, Mersing Coral Reefs, Artificial Reefs, Marine Conservation, Fisheries, Sustainable Tourism