An initiative to conserve marine biodiversity involved 20 MR.DIY volunteers taking part in a turtle conservation effort ‘Save The Turtles’ at Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary, Pulau Redang, Terengganu from 20 until 22 August 2022.

Chagar Hutang Turtle Sanctuary is located at the northern part of Redang Island and was set up to help protect and preserve the dwindling population of turtles in Malaysian waters. This sanctuary is one of the important nesting beaches in Redang Island, with nesting ranging from 700 to 1700 nests annually, and is also the main landing place for Green and Hawksbill turtles.

Amongst the highlights of this CSR program include turtle nest check, nest excavation, nest measurement, turtle monitoring, measuring turtle carapace and data recording. Apart from that, MR.DIY volunteers have had a beach clean-up, removing sea debris on the nesting beaches, formed three beach patrol teams during night where volunteers will monitor key nesting areas and release the newborn hatchlings. This is indeed a different and uniquely diverse volunteering experience to all volunteers.

To support reducing pollution whilst protecting endangered species. MR.DIY contributed one outdoor garbage shed made of wood, as this is the perfect solution to their waste management as well as to curb the invasion of their garbage bins by wild animals. MR.DIY also contributed one signage as a reminder to all visitors in keeping the surrounding area clean and safe. This contribution will benefit as well as to improve and upgrade the facilities of the sea turtle research station.

As turtles are facing risk of extinction, MR.DIY expressed its desire to raise awareness whilst preserving the endangered marine animals and its habitat through this initiative. This is in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Goal 14: Life Below Water; to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development.