SEMPORNA: The Buwan Dive Resort has been awarded Silver Member status in the annual Green Fins assessment, marking a milestone in its efforts to adopt more environmentally sustainable practices.
The recognition follows the resort’s ongoing initiatives to reduce its impact on the surrounding marine ecosystem, including cutting single-use plastics, improving waste management and supporting coral reef conservation programs.
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The resort joined the Green Fins programme last year, organised by Reef Check Malaysia, and was initially rated as a Restricted Member after its first evaluation under the Green Fins Code of Conduct, highlighting areas for improvement in dive operations. A recent reassessment confirmed its improved performance.
“Dive centres can make meaningful changes when driven by genuine environmental responsibility,” said Adzmin Fatta, Senior Programme Manager of Reef Check Malaysia in Semporna.
He noted that many dive operators in the district have yet to join the programme or undergo environmental impact assessments, presenting opportunities for wider participation in sustainable marine tourism.
Nisa Mariyen, a representative of The Buwan Dive Resort, said achieving Silver Member status required dedication from the team.
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“Continuous staff training, operational monitoring, and active community engagement, supported by management committed to sustainable tourism, have been key to our progress,” she said.
Green Fins is an international initiative promoting responsible diving and snorkeling practices to protect fragile coral reef ecosystems. In Malaysia, it is implemented by Reef Check Malaysia in partnership with Sabah Parks, providing guidance, training, and assessments for dive operators.
At least 27 dive operators in Sabah are now registered as Green Fins members, reflecting growing support for sustainable tourism in the state.
