OVER 100 leading ocean scientists and experts from more than 30 countries have convened at the 26th Annual Meeting of the Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO 26), held at Gurney Bay Hotel.
Hosted by the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the three-day event, running from today until Feb 27, marks the first time POGO’s annual meeting is being held in Southeast Asia. The gathering is made possible with support from USM, the Penang government, the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB), Penang Tourism & Creative Economy (PETACE), and Malaysia Airlines (MAS).
CEMACS director Prof Datuk Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai expressed her delight that the prestigious gathering has brought together leading oceanographic institutions, scientists and policymakers from across the globe to foster international collaboration on ocean observations.
“The global ocean faces an unprecedented triple planetary crisis – climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution – posing severe threats to marine ecosystems, depleting biodiversity, and impacting livelihoods of the coastal community. Scientific research is instrumental in predicting, mitigating, and developing adaptive solutions to these pressing challenges.
“POGO-26 provides a vital platform to explore how enhanced ocean observation systems can strengthen our ability to understand, anticipate and respond to these challenges, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and resilient ocean future,” Prof Tan said in her speech.
Tan highlighted that CEMACS, as Malaysia’s oldest marine research centre, is proud to be the country’s first POGO member and among the earliest in the region, reinforcing its leadership in ocean research and its contributions to advancing marine science.
“With expertise in seagrass and coral reef conservation, ocean acidification studies, and climate resilience research, CEMACS is well-positioned to host POGO-26, further solidifying Malaysia’s role in global ocean research initiatives,” she added.
State executive councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy Wong Hon Wai echoed Tan’s views, emphasising the need for strong collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and industries to ensure research translates into practical solutions for sustainable ocean management.
He noted that oceans cover more than 70% of the planet and play a crucial role in regulating climate, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining livelihoods.
“As EXCO for Tourism and Creative Economy, I recognise that ocean conservation is not just an environmental issue – it is also an economic priority.
“A thriving and healthy ocean is essential for sustainable tourism, which plays a key role in Penang’s economy. Today’s travellers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly and conservation-driven experiences, and we must ensure that our tourism policies align with responsible marine stewardship,” Wong said in his speech.
Additionally, he announced that the Penang State Art Gallery will host the Aqua Marine Exhibition from Sept 10 to Nov 10 this year, showcasing the beauty of Malaysia’s marine environment through art and raising awareness of the need for conservation.
Encouraging participants to exchange knowledge, build meaningful partnerships, and explore innovative solutions to protect and sustain the oceans, Wong emphasised the importance of global cooperation in tackling ocean-related challenges.
Captain Francisco Armado Arias-Isaza, chair of POGO and general director of the Marine and Coastal Research Institute Jose Benito Vives de Andreis, stressed the urgency of addressing the threats to the planet.
“Developing strategies to protect the oceans is crucial, hence the need for cooperation, partnership, and sharing of insights on the health and sustainability of the oceans.
“We also hope to provide advice to decision-makers on how to manage oceans. We trust they will use this advice wisely to create new opportunities for those whose livelihoods depend on the oceans,” he said.
Among those present at the meeting were the POGO board of directors – Fei Chai from Xiamen University, and Prof Nicholas JP Owens, the director of the Scottish Association for Marine Science.
Before the programme officially began, the organisers treated delegates to vibrant cultural dance performances, showcasing the diversity of Penang’s multiracial community. The colourful display captivated attendees and provided a warm introduction to the local heritage.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Law Suun Ting