KOTA KINABALU: Removing ghost nets from the sea was an eye-opening experience for freelance makeup artist Ellie Chung who took part in an activity to remove ghost nets off Kota Kinabalu waters.
Ghost nets are fishing nets that have been lost, abandoned, or discarded in the ocean.
These nets continue to drift through the water, trapping and killing marine life, hence the name "ghost nets.
"I have always wanted to help with marine conservation activities since I like diving, but my schedule had been very packed until recently when I could make some time for it.
"My friend from my diving group was part of the same project last year and shared the link for us to join this time.
"However, I never knew cutting ghost nets would be difficult and require special skill. As a newbie, it was quite tough for me, and I vomited twice, under the sea and on the surface.
"But I am really happy to be part of it, and it was a good experience for me," said the 40-year-old who took part in yesterday's activity.
For ghost net removal, apart from being good with buoyancy, a scuba diver also needs to know the technique and be intricate in cutting them off without causing damage to marine life.
There are also risks of being entangled by the nets, so participants have to be calm for safety purposes.
The one-day event, a collaboration among Rotary Club Sutera Kota Kinabalu, Marine Research Foundation (MRF), and Sabah Dive Rangers, saw about 20 participants removing 90 kilogrammes of ghost nets in four dives.
MRF senior conservation officer Liyana Izwin Khalid said ghost nets can be detrimental to marine life, affecting everything from fish to sea turtles.
"I've personally witnessed the heartbreaking sight of sea turtles trapped and drowned in these nets. It's crucial that we remove them immediately. Each ghost net removed is a life potentially saved.
"We may not solve the overarching issue of marine pollution overnight, but we can't ignore it either.
"While we work on developing long-term solutions, MRF will continue to do what we can to remove marine debris from our oceans through direct interventions and collaborative efforts.
"We urge everyone to join us in this mission, whether by volunteering in clean-ups or organising your own clean-up expeditions in your area."
Liyana also extended gratitude to volunteers and the expertise of dive instructors from Scuba Junkie KK and GoAquatic.
"This event would not have been possible without the funding from the Rotary Club of Kinabalu Sutera and the support of Sabah Parks."