The Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism, through the Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with DHI
Water & Environment (B) Sdn Bhd, and with support from Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Non-Governmental
Organisations (NGOs), has successfully carried out a seagrass relocation activity at Pulau Bedukang. This initiative
represents a collaborative effort to protect and restore the marine ecosystem of Brunei Darussalam, while also
raising public awareness about the role of this blue carbon habitat in addressing climate change.
The launching was officiated by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin,
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism. Also in attendance were High Commissioners and Ambassadors,
Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretaries as well as Head of Departments from the Ministry of
Primary Resources and Tourism and also representatives from various government agencies. The collaborative
effort highlights a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and the preservation of vital marine
habitats.
Seagrass is crucial to the resilience and productivity of marine environments, serving as breeding grounds,
nurseries, and feeding areas for a wide range of marine species. Despite their environmental and socio-economic
value, seagrasses globally are undergoing accelerated rates of decline due to a range of threats including rising
sea surface temperatures, extreme temperature events, and coastal development. Recognizing their ecological
significance, the initiative focused on relocating healthy seagrass patches from areas impacted by development
activities to Pulau Bedukang as designated protected zones to ensure these ecosystems receive the conservation
attention necessary to thrive amid increasing environmental pressures. The activity involved meticulous planning
to ensure the successful transfer and establishment of seagrass beds.
Healthy seagrass beds contribute to cleaner waters and enhance carbon absorption capacity through Blue Carbon
ecosystems, as well as stabilize seabed and reduce erosion caused by waves and currents in the new area. These
actions ensure that the natural carbon sinks continue to function effectively while providing essential ecosystem
services to both people and nature. In addition, it helps increase awareness of the importance of seagrass
ecosystems in maintaining environmental balance and their role in climate change mitigation. The Ministry of
Primary Resources and Tourism will continue to promote sustainable practices and conservation projects that
safeguard the marine resources for future generations. Together, we can ensure healthier oceans, resilient
coastlines, and a sustainable future for generations to come.
