Even though they occupy less than one tenth of one percent of the world's oceans, coral reefs are vital for fisheries, coastal protection and marine life yet remain very much under threat from rising sea temperatures, pollution, sedimentation and physical damage. Hence, two hotels exercised their role as responsible corporate citizens recently.

Berjaya Redang Beach Resort conducted its annual Redang Clean-up Day recently, which was endorsed by PADI Project AWARE, Malaysian Sport Diving Association (MSDA) and supported by Tourism Malaysia. The land and underwater exercise aims to preserve and protect the environment and ecological systems of Redang Island for the benefit of future generations.

Participants lent a helping hand to remove predatory crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci), which are believed to be partly responsible for the loss of coral reefs. Other activities included a photography competition and Marine Turtle Adoption Programme spearheaded by Turtle Research and Rehabilitation Group (Universiti Malaysia Terengganu).