Saturday, May 01, 2010

Sipadan better off now after tourist restriction

SEMPORNA -- Fish population around Sipadan, a world-renowned diving spot off here, has further increased following the government's move to restrict the number of tourists and prohibit the setting up of resorts on the island five years ago.

This was among the findings of a five-day scientific expedition to Sipadan Island Park, which ended yesterday, Sabah Parks director Paul Basintal said.

The move also brought about positive impact to coral growth in the 16,846ha park, thus preserving the area as a turtle feeding ground, he told reporters after closing the expedition at Mabul Island, here, Friday night.

"The decision is timely in the effort to protect Sipadan Island's marine heritage," he said.

Forty-nine people took part in the expedition comprising researchers from Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Sabah Parks, Fisheries Department, Mineral and Geoscience Department and World Wildlife Fund for Nature.

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