14.3 – Supporting Aquatic Ecosystems Through Action

14.3.4 – Technologies Towards Aquatic Ecosystem Damage Prevention (Direct Work)

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is at the forefront of technological innovation for aquatic ecosystem protection, integrating science, engineering, and environmental research to prevent ecological damage and sustain biodiversity. In line with SDG 14: Life Below Water, UKM’s researchers and postgraduate scholars actively develop and apply technologies that address key environmental threats such as pollution, overfishing, and habitat degradation. Through collaborations with national agencies, international partners and the private sector, UKM’s projects advance the university’s mission to preserve the health of marine and freshwater ecosystems while promoting sustainable resource management.

Among UKM’s notable initiatives are research on the population status of the common seahorse (Hippocampus kuda) in urban seagrass meadows, integrative taxonomic studies of fish biodiversity in Tok Bali, investigations into microplastic contamination and its ecological impacts, and the development of nanotechnology-based solutions for marine pollution control. Additionally, the use of Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) data in fisheries research enhances real-time monitoring of fishing activities, supporting sustainable fishing practices and ecosystem resilience. Collectively, these scientific and technological advancements demonstrate UKM’s proactive commitment to using cutting-edge innovation to prevent aquatic ecosystem damage and maintain biodiversity in vulnerable marine and coastal regions.

UKM Research Technologies Towards Aquatic Ecosystem Damage Prevention

No	Technologies Towards Aquatic Ecosystem Damage Prevention (Direct Work)
1	Population Status of Common Seahorse, Hippocampus Kuda, in the Urban Seagrass Meadow of Merambong Shoal
2	Research On Fish Biodiversity In Tok Bali, Kelantan, Malaysia: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach For Sustainable Fisheries Management And Conservation And Fish Biodiversity In Tok Bali, Kelantan, Malaysia: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach For Sustainable Fisheries Management And Conservation By Dr. Danial Hariz Bin Zainal Abidin.
3	Research On the Prevalence Of Common Seahorse, Hippocampus Kuda, Along The Merambong Shoal Seagrass Meadow At Different Seagrass Density And Microplastic Contamination In Marine Environments: Implications On The Growth And Behaviour Of Coral Fish, Wrasse (Labridae Spp.) by Ts. Dr. Noorashikin Binti Md Noor.
4	Research On Efficiency Of Nano-Silica Enriched Marine Diatom In The Removal Of Microplastics From Seawater. by Dr. Herryawan Ryadi Bin Eziwar Dyari.
5	Research On The Impact Of Fishing Activities On The Distribution Of Pelagic Fish Using Vessel Monitoring System (Vms) Data by  Prof. Madya Dr. Muzzneena Binti Ahmad Mustapha.

1. Population Status of Common Seahorse, Hippocampus Kuda, in the Urban Seagrass Meadow of Merambong Shoal

The project titled “Population Status of Common Seahorse, Hippocampus kuda, in the Urban Seagrass Meadow of Merambong Shoal”, supported by the The Rufford Foundation and led by Wong Jieyi UKM postgraduate Student, Supervised by Dr Wee Hin Boo, focuses on assessing and protecting a vulnerable seahorse species in one of Malaysia’s largest seagrass meadows located between highly urbanised zones (Forest City, Johor and Tuas, Singapore). The research in 2024 highlights that Hippocampus kuda is heavily exploited for aquarium trade and traditional medicine, while its seagrass habitat is threatened by urban development. The study aims to gather baseline data on population status using monthly field surveys and tagging, as well as to understand seahorse–seagrass interactions,  a method employing technology and scientific monitoring to inform conservation measures. 

By establishing robust data on seahorse populations and their habitats, this project contributes actionable knowledge for ecosystem damage prevention. It supports strategies to mitigate habitat degradation and species decline, thereby aligning with the theme of technological and research-based interventions for aquatic ecosystem protection.

Source: www.rufford.org/projects/

2. Research On Fish Biodiversity In Tok Bali, Kelantan, Malaysia: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach For Sustainable Fisheries Management And Conservation And Fish Biodiversity In Tok Bali, Kelantan, Malaysia: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach For Sustainable Fisheries Management And Conservation By Dr. Danial Hariz Bin Zainal Abidin. 

The research was led by Dr. Danial Hariz bin Zainal Abidin, titled “Fish Biodiversity in Tok Bali, Kelantan, Malaysia: An Integrative Taxonomic Approach for Sustainable Fisheries Management and Conservation duration of 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2026. This study employs integrative taxonomy, combining morphological and molecular techniques to accurately identify and classify fish species within the Tok Bali ecosystem.

The research provides critical insights into fish diversity, population health, and habitat conditions, serving as a scientific foundation for sustainable fisheries management and conservation planning. By leveraging advanced technologies in molecular biology, environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, and biodiversity monitoring, UKM enhances early detection of ecosystem changes and supports strategies to prevent overexploitation, habitat loss, and aquatic pollution.

Source: ukmsarjana.ukm.my/main/ 

3. Research On the Prevalence Of Common Seahorse, Hippocampus Kuda, Along The Merambong Shoal Seagrass Meadow At Different Seagrass Density And Microplastic Contamination In Marine Environments: Implications On The Growth And Behaviour Of Coral Fish, Wrasse (Labridae Spp.) by Ts. Dr. Noorashikin Binti Md Noor. 

On going research by Ts. Dr. Noorashikin Binti Md Noor on Prevalence Of Common Seahorse, Hippocampus Kuda, Along The Merambong Shoal Seagrass Meadow At Different Seagrass Density And Microplastic Contamination In Marine Environments: Implications On The Growth And Behaviour Of Coral Fish, Wrasse (Labridae Spp.) duration of 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2026.  These research projects contribute to understanding the relationship between habitat quality, seagrass density, and species population health, as well as the ecotoxicological effects of microplastic pollution on marine organisms. By combining field sampling, behavioral observation, and laboratory-based microplastic analysis, the studies generate valuable data for the management of sensitive marine habitats such as seagrass meadows and coral ecosystems.

Through such research, UKM strengthens its role in developing technologies and strategies to prevent aquatic ecosystem damage, particularly in biodiversity hotspots vulnerable to pollution and habitat degradation.

Source: ukmsarjana.ukm.my/main/ 

4. Research On Efficiency Of Nano-Silica Enriched Marine Diatom In The Removal Of Microplastics From Seawater by Dr. Herryawan Ryadi Bin Eziwar Dyari. 

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) continues to pioneer innovative research aimed at preventing and mitigating aquatic ecosystem damage through advanced environmental technologies. Other studies, led by Dr. Herryawan Ryadi bin Eziwar Dyari, titled “Efficiency of Nano-Silica Enriched Marine Diatom in the Removal of Microplastics from Seawater,” explores a biotechnological solution to one of the most pressing marine pollution issues — microplastic contamination.

This research integrates nanotechnology and marine biology by enhancing natural marine diatoms with nano-silica to improve their capacity to adsorb and remove microplastic particles from seawater. The innovative approach not only demonstrates high removal efficiency but also promotes an eco-friendly, low-cost, and sustainable remediation technique suitable for large-scale environmental applications. Through this study, UKM contributes to developing nature-inspired technologies that support marine ecosystem restoration, pollution control, and water quality improvement.

Source: ukmsarjana.ukm.my/main/ 

5. Research On The Impact Of Fishing Activities On The Distribution Of Pelagic Fish Using Vessel Monitoring System (Vms) Data by  Prof. Madya Dr. Muzzneena Binti Ahmad Mustapha.

A significant study led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muzzneena binti Ahmad Mustapha, titled “The Impact of Fishing Activities on the Distribution of Pelagic Fish Using Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) Data,” utilizes advanced spatial and satellite-based tracking technologies to analyze fishing patterns and their effects on pelagic fish distribution in Malaysian waters.

By integrating VMS data with ecological and environmental parameters, the research provides critical insights into overfishing risks, habitat disturbances, and fish stock sustainability. The findings contribute to the formulation of evidence-based policies for the sustainable management of marine resources and the protection of vulnerable ecosystems.

Source: ukmsarjana.ukm.my/main 

Through its continuous research, technological advancement and industry collaboration, UKM stands as a national leader in applying science and innovation to safeguard aquatic ecosystems. From molecular and nano-scale technologies to geospatial monitoring and biodiversity mapping, each initiative reflects UKM’s comprehensive approach to addressing complex environmental challenges. These projects not only generate vital data for conservation and policymaking but also translate scientific discovery into practical, sustainable solutions that protect marine life, restore habitats, and improve water quality.

Aligned with the UKM Sustainability Strategic Plan 2030, these efforts embody the university’s role in driving Malaysia’s transition toward a low-carbon, resilient, and sustainable blue economy. By integrating research excellence with technological innovation, UKM continues to inspire transformative action, ensuring that future generations inherit healthy, thriving aquatic ecosystems that support both biodiversity and human well-being.