Aquaria KLCC, in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UM T), has officially launched Phase 3 of its Coral Conservation Initiative, unveiling the Coral Adoption Program—a nationwide effort inviting the public and corporations to take part in coral reef restoration and marine biodiversity preservation
The launch was officiated in the presence of Dato’ Haji Azahari bin Haji Othman, Deputy Director General (Development) of the Department of Fisheries (DOF) Malaysia, and Prof. Ir.
Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri bin Ibrahim, Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UM T). Guests at the event were also given the opportunity to experience the coral restoration methods used, guided by Associate Professor Dr, James Tan, senior lecturer, Faculty of Science and Marine Environment at UM T.
To kickstart the program, a cheque worth RM 52,500 was handed over as contribution for 150 Coral Package adoptions on behalf of the event attendees and Aquaria KLCC employees, marking the beginning of public and corporate participation. The event was attended by over 50 guests, including corporate leaders, government agencies, and environmental advocates.
“Every coral adopted is a promise for a healthier reef in the future. This program allows everyone—from families to boardrooms—to take action and become a part of something bigger than themselves/’ said Dato’ Simon Foong, Chairman of Aquaria KLCC.
He added that through collaborative science and hands-on community participation, the Coral Adoption Program aims to reconnect Malaysians with the ocean and create long-term ecological impact.
Daryl Foong, CEO of Aquaria KLCC, revealed the next phase of expansion for this initiative:
“With the launch of this Coral Adoption Fund, we have now entered Phase 3 of our coral conservation mission. By 2027, we aim to enlarge the coral garden site to 2,000 square meters and restore 3,000 coral nubbins. This expansion will not only support more research but also accelerate marine ecosystem recovery in Malaysia.”
About Aquaria KLCC:
Aquaria KLCC is one of Southeast Asia’s premier oceanariums. Showcasing over 5,000 land and aquatic species, it delivers immersive, educational experiences designed to promote marine conservation and tourism excellence. Located beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Aquaria KLCC is operated by Aquawalk Sdn Bhd and receives over a million visitors annually.
