THE effects of climate change, such as extreme weather conditions, ocean acidification and rising sea levels, pose significant threats to coastal cities and the marine ecosystem.
Penang, being a treasure trove of natural wonders, stressed the need to preserve marine biodiversity, ensure food security, build climate resilience, and create a sustainable future.
Caretaker Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said several issues lie at the intersection of marine biodiversity, food security, climate resilience, and the future.
“Food security demands our immediate attention. With the growing global population and the increasing pressure on our somewhat limited resources, we must find sustainable solutions to ensure an adequate food supply for all.
“Like other coastal cities, Penang plays a crucial role as the centre of commerce and innovation, where ideas and solutions can be generated to address the challenges of feeding our planet sustainably,” he said in his speech during the 6th World Conference on Marine Biodiversity Gala Dinner 2023 at St Giles The Wembley Hotel this evening.
Chow said it is crucial to adapt and build resilience to ensure the long-term sustainability of communities, and to protect marine biodiversity.
“The theme of the conference ‘Biodiversity in the Anthropocene’ is most timely,” he added.
Chow shared that Penang is home to 17 permanent forest reserves.
“To better conserve and protect the environment, eight mangrove forest areas have been gazetted as permanent reserved forests by the state government,” he said.
The 6th World Conference on Marine Biodiversity (WCMB 2023) is currently being held from July 2 to 5.
The conference brings together over 400 delegates from 50 countries. It was a proud moment for Penang as the conference graces the South East Asia region for the very first time.
Chow said Penang demonstrated its commitment to fostering international cooperation and knowledge sharing by hosting the WCMB 2023.
“This gathering of experts, scientists, policymakers, and conservationists serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, discussing challenges, and developing innovative solutions.
“It is through collaboration that we can address the pressing issues facing our oceans and create a sustainable future for all.
“Congratulations to the Centre For Marine & Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang Institute, collaborators, and sponsors for making this conference a success,” Chow said.
CEMACS director Prof Datuk Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, who is also the WCMB 2023 chairman, said the WCMB 2023 marks a pivotal moment where the people confront the pressing challenges that the oceans face.
“We are witnessing the devastating consequences of habitat destruction, pollution, overfishing, and climate change.
“The time to act is now. The fate of our oceans, and the delicate ecosystems they hold, hang in the balance,” she said.
Prof Tan said the power to bring change lies in unity and shared commitment.
She also thanked the delegates, partners, supporters, USM and her team for their commitment and dedication.
Also present at the Gala Dinner were caretaker Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin, caretaker state Welfare and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, USM Board of Governors chairman Datuk Seri Dr Awang Adek Hussin, USM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed, Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, Penang Institute executive director Datuk Dr Ooi Kee Beng, Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng, and International Association of Biological Oceanography (IABO) president Dr Enrique Montes.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Alissala Thian