Protecting Coral Reefs A Moral Responsibility
I WOULD like to commend The Straits Times for highlighting the importance of marine conservation in its report "Fisherman harvest coral illegally to sell to aquariums" (ST, Sept 28).
A few months ago, I visited an aquarium and realised that the coral reefs there were similar to those I had seen while diving in the Southern Islands.
Your report has confirmed my fears.
If such illegal harvesting of corals is not checked, Singapore’s coral reefs will diminish at a much faster rate than they can ever recover.
I appeal to the relevant organisations to pursue this matter seriously, and to take action before the plundering becomes uncontrollable.
As a diver, I know that many Singaporean divers pick up underwater souvenirs on diving trips to neighbouring islands.
But have these culprits ever asked themselves whether it is ethical for them to remove a living creature from its natural habitat in a foreign country without getting permission first?
I have even seen divers removing couches, giant sea-clams, gorgonians and sea fans for the sheer fun of it and the selfish desire to add to their collections.
Regretfully, this poaching is becoming rampant because not many countries, Singapore included, are committed to enforcing marine conservation laws.
We are fortunate to have dedicated organisations such as the Marine Conservation Division of the Malayan Nature Society, which Is unflagging in its efforts to conserve the reefs.
Reef studies are also undertaken by the National University of Singapore’s Department of Zoology.
But all their efforts will go down the drain if divers, marine aquarists and the aquarium owners do not exercise their moral responsibility and stop removing corals from the sea bed.
The media must also play an active role in educating the public on the importance and fragility of coral reefs. Diving clubs must also highlight to their members the importance of marine conservation.
TAN CHANG SENG Singapore 1441
Source : The Straits Times, Wednesday October 2, 1991
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