LABUAN, June 29 (Bernama) -- The popular Rusukan Besar Island in Labuan was a hive of activities today, with extensive beach clean-up and beautification efforts.
The initiative was a collaboration between volunteers from various secondary schools and JX Nippon Oil and Gas Exploration (Malaysia).
Rusukan Besar Island Resort manager Kok Su Kian reported that 77 volunteers participated in the event. These included secondary school students organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MOTAC) and employees from JX Nippon Oil & Gas, who joined independently with support from the Fisheries Department.
There were 21 students from Sekolah Menengah (SM) St. Anthony, SM St. Anne, Sekolah Menegah Kebangsaan (SMK) Labuan, SMK Lajau, SMK Taman Perumahan Bedaun, SMK Mutiara, as well as four University Malaysia Sabah (Labuan International Campus) students who painted ocean murals.
“As the island is co-managed by Rusukan Besar Island Resort and the Fisheries Department, we warmly welcome volunteer projects from non-governmental organisations,” said Su Kian.
Labuan Fisheries Department Suphian Ahmad said the volunteers were also allowed to observe turtle conservation efforts, including the hatchery and nests on the island.
“This programme is not just about beach cleaning but also about educating the public on turtle conservation. We are grateful for the volunteer projects helping to make this island a must-visit destination,” he said.
The Rusukan Besar Island Resort, in partnership with the Labuan Dive Club, is also hosting the 2nd Labuan Dive Festival from June 28-30.
-- BERNAMA
