Etiqa General Takaful Berhad ramped up its sustainability efforts by assessing their adopted coral reef and propagating new corals under Etiqa Marine Conservation Project 2023. The three-day expedition involved 30 staff volunteers in collaboration with Kelab Legasi Selam Skuba Malaysia (Leges Divers) and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Marine Research Centre (EKOMAR) in Kampung Salang, Pulau Tioman from 18 to 20 August 2023.

The focal objective of the Etiqa Marine Conservation Project was twofold: to revitalize the local marine ecosystem and to propagate awareness about the pressing need for enhanced efforts in sustaining marine ecosystems. Last year, Etiqa breathed new life into 9 Coral Restoration Units at the Salang House Reef by introducing newly propagated corals of diverse species. This reef ecosystem also harbours an array of marine creatures, including the near-threatened Black-Tip Reef Shark, critically endangered Hawksbill Turtles, and indispensable Green Turtles that contribute to ecosystem equilibrium.

Aside from coral propagation, Etiqa General Takaful Berhad contributed RM19,000 from its Amal Jariah Fund for Kampung Salang Surau’s upgrading works that involves installing new carpets, fans and a vacuum cleaner. Together with Leges Divers and the villagers, Etiqa volunteers also transformed the village’s information centre into an aesthetically pleasing photo spot by painting a vibrant mural.

Shahrul Azuan Mohamed, Chief Executive Officer, Etiqa General Takaful Berhad (EGTB) expressed his gratitude to the volunteers and partners who have made the Etiqa Marine Conservation Project 2023 a success. He added “Etiqa takes great pride in supporting the revival of Pulau Tioman’s coral reefs and giving Kampung Salang a facelift. This endeavour was made possible through the esteemed guidance of Leges Divers and the local villagers.”

Moreover, this programme will not only help rejuvenate marine biodiversity, but grant comfort to the Muslim community by refurbishing their local surau as well. Notably, this programme stands as a testament to Etiqa’s dedication in realizing its corporate mission of Making the World a Better Place, harmonizing seamlessly with the Value-Based Intermediation (VBI) principles that prioritize environmental preservation and social quality.” he added.

Collaborating strategically with Leges Divers has empowered the restoration and adoption of corals in Kampung Salang, Pulau Tioman. Leges Divers led underwater explorations and facilitated workshops that educated participants about marine life identification and coral restoration techniques. These efforts underscored the utmost priority of ensuring the safety of participants and the ecosystem during all underwater activities.

In addition, collaborating with EKOMAR has fortified the delivery of the programme’s mission. EKOMAR conducted research on marine resources and ecosystems with the aim of conservation and preservation of marine life ecosystems. The EKOMAR research team consists of researchers from various local universities and the National Oceanography Directorate (NOD), Department of Fisheries and Marine Parks, Malaysia.

Etiqa has been progressively advancing its sustainability endeavours since 2019. This is reflected in Etiqa being the first insurance and takaful company in Malaysia that has signed up to the United Nation’s Principles of Sustainable Insurance. Other sustainability initiatives include the introduction of Etiqa Solar Energy Shortfall Insurance (SESI), the promotion of EV adoption by installing EV charging stations at Dataran Maybank and Menara Etiqa, and Tesla Ensure an insurance and takaful coverage plan for Tesla owners in Malaysia. For more information on Etiqa’s sustainability journey, please visit Etiqa’s corporate website at https://etiqa.com/sustainability/