Project Description:
Hippocampus denise (left) and H. bargibanti are camourflage ability on the sea fans
The project is taking place at a few islands off Semporna, Sabah where two species of pygmy seahorses (Hippocampus bargibanti and H. denise) are found. We are at a very early stage to better understand pygmy seahorse ecology and how they respond to recreational diving pressure.
Project locations taking place at the beautiful Tun Sakaran Marine Park off Semporna, Sabah
Volunteers program
There will be extensive diving in this project. Volunteers are expected to do 2-3 dives per day in 25-30 m deep waters. Underwater, volunteers will assist researcher in the following activities:
i. Searching for pygmy seahorse
ii. Establish photo-ID
iii. Photo-measurement
iv. Behavioural observation and data recording
Volunteers will have their leisure hours during the day in between dives and in the evening to explore the cultural heritage and beautiful scenery at the project site. Volunteers will receive a T-shirt, a couple of badges and a certificate of participation as tokens of appreciation.
Available slot is on a weekly basis. Volunteers can book more than one slot to extend their stay. Your accomodation, food (3 meals per day) and boat transfer will be covered. Air and land transport costs to Semporna and personal insurance will be on own expenses. There is a budget airline avaialble for advanced flight booking e.g. airasia (www.airasia.com).
A participation fee of RM200 per slot is charged to cover the costs associated above. See below for payment method.
Eligibility
You must be:
- an experienced advanced diver or having higher diving qualifications
- at least 18 years old and above
- able to live under simple conditions
- possess at least a SPM / GCE qualification or its equivalent
Boat-handling, underwater photography and life-saving skills and ability to communicate in Bahasa Melayu will be a plus, but not compulsory.
How to book
View the slots schedule below and book directly by sending an email furnishing your name, age, occupation and whether you meet the requirements to elingyeong@gmail.com or call Ms. Yeong Yee Ling (+6016-9807399/ +6017-2211483). As soon as your registration is confirmed, you can book your flight tickets to Tawau, Sabah as this is not covered by the project.
Kindly make an advanced payment of RM200 via cheque or bank draft to "Universiti Malaysia Terengganu" and address it to:
Mr. Choo Chee Kuang,
Department of Marine Science,
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu,
21030, Kuala Terengganu, MALAYSIA.
