Brunei's Ocean Week Engages Youth in Marine Conservation Efforts

Brunei is set to host its inaugural Ocean Week from Friday to June 9, an initiative aimed at educating and inspiring the nation's youth to protect marine resources. This national educational program includes a variety of hands-on activities and a youth advocacy forum, designed to deepen young people's understanding of marine issues.

The event kicks off on June 1 with a half-day course on fabricating reef balls, which are structures used to promote coral growth and marine life. On June 2, participants will engage in the Reef Ball Discovery course, which includes deploying these reef balls, planting coral, and snorkeling at Pelong Rock. These activities provide practical experience in marine conservation techniques.

Educating and empowering youth in marine conservation is essential for the long-term sustainability of Brunei's marine ecosystems and the health of the planet. If successful, this initiative could inspire similar programs in other countries and contribute to a global effort to protect marine resources.

A highlight of Ocean Week is the Future Ocean Changemakers Forum on June 3 at Laksamana College of Business (LCB). The forum will feature local and international conservation experts, including Mohd Tahsin Wong Abdullah from Poni Foundation, Mark Joseph Laceste from Lalakbayin Ecoventures, Khairunnisa Ash'ari from Green Brunei, and Aimi Ramlee from Tyne Solutions. The event will be accessible remotely and live-streamed on social media.

Another significant initiative launching during Ocean Week is the Youth Ocean Ambassadors Programme. This program aims to nurture young leaders in marine conservation by providing mentorship to selected ambassadors. These young leaders will spearhead community outreach projects under the guidance of the Poni Foundation.

Ocean Week Brunei is organized by the Poni Foundation and Poni Divers in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism. The initiative is supported by Asia Inc Forum, Curious Mind, Brunei Tourism, and the Reef Ball Foundation. Key sponsors include Baiduri Bank, the High Commission of Australia to Brunei Darussalam, Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam, Progresif Sdn Bhd, Tyne Solutions, Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd, Armada Housing, and Brunei LNG Sdn Bhd. Media partners include Borneo Bulletin, Media Permata, Kristal FM, Radio Television Brunei, and Biz Brunei, with RAID being the association partner for diving and Laksamana College of Business being the education partner.

By focusing on education, engagement, and empowerment, Ocean Week Brunei aims to equip the nation's youth with the knowledge and skills needed to address future environmental challenges and contribute to the sustainability of Brunei's marine ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

• Brunei hosts its 1st Ocean Week from June 1-9 to educate youth on marine conservation.
• Hands-on activities include fabricating reef balls, coral planting, and snorkeling.
• Future Ocean Changemakers Forum features local and international conservation experts.
• Youth Ocean Ambassadors Programme launches to nurture young leaders in marine conservation.
• Ocean Week aims to equip Brunei's youth with knowledge and skills for environmental sustainability.