As a marine scientist , Reef Check Course Director , Green Fins Assessor Trainer , and Senior Programme Manager of Reef Check Malaysia in Pulau Tioman , Alvin ’ s life story is a powerful narrative of collective effort in safeguarding our fragile natural treasures .

A COLLECTIVE VICTORY

The Pulau Tioman community recently achieved a monumental victory under Alvin ’ s steadfast guidance : the Federal goverment ' s decision to abandon plans for a new airport construction on the island .

Alvin recalled the momentous news : “ I was relieved , overjoyed , and proud , all at once . My colleagues and I have been fighting this ridiculous idea since 2018 , so we were overjoyed to hear that it has ended .

Snorkelling session with students from SK Tekek on Pulau Tioman .

“ This triumph extends beyond blocking construction . It signifies the preservation of livelihoods and the island ’ s unparalleled beauty .

“ I was very proud that , as a nation , we did something collectively to protect and preserve not only nature but the livelihoods of hundreds of people .

“ This decision means that the reefs along Kampung Paya and Genting would now be spared from destruction .

“ It means all the fish , invertebrates and corals can continue to survive and provide the ecosystem services they have provided for decades .

“ The people can continue to earn a

living from activities such as snorkelling and diving .”

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

With the airport plans now shelved , Alvin and his team are redirecting their focus again on securing recognition for the Pulau Tioman Marine Park as a green-listed site .

This endeavour aims to spotlight the island ’ s biodiversity and potential to attract tourists seeking unspoiled nature . Pulau Tioman could be one of Malaysia ’ s sustainable tourism destinations .

With the ecosystem managed well while simultaneously attracting tourists