Pupils in Semporna district received a hands-on learning experience on turtle conservation during a programme organised by Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), recently.

The programme saw a total of 20 primary and secondary school students heading to the Bohey Dulang Island of Semporna, where they were given talks on turtle conservation and witnessed the release of hatchlings, among other educational activities.

UMS vice chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor led his team of lecturers accompanied by Sabah Parks staff to the island, along with the students from SK Bangau-Bangau, SK Kg. Simunul, SMK Kabogan II, and SMK Datuk Panglima Abdullah.

“During the programme, the students heard information about turtle conservation and other marine species, especially those threatened by extinction.They also saw how hatchlings were released back into the ocean,” he said.

Looking at the beauty of Bohey Dulang, Kasim said the island has vast potential not only for tourism purposes but also for education, research and filming.

“For UMS, we are always keen to be part of any conservation and educational programmes,” he said.

Towards the end, he urged the students to make conservation of the environment a part of their lives and daily practices.

Kasim also encouraged them to develop interest in science related subjects so that they could in future become the protectors of flora and fauna.

He also launched the Edu-Tourism and Turtle Conservation Project organised by UMS and Sabah Parks during the event.