The importance of mangrove ecosystems

Mangroves act as nurseries and feeding grounds for marine mammals, fish, crabs, and prawns, supporting local fisheries and livelihoods. In Rajang-Belawai-Paloh, where WWF-Malaysia actively works, mangroves also provide firewood used in the production of smoked prawn, a local delicacy known as sesar udang. Additionally, mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastal areas from storm surges and erosion while helping combat climate change by serving as carbon sinks.

Why are mangroves important to the dolphins?

Mangroves are vital to dolphins as they provide nursery grounds for fish, shelter, and rich feeding areas. The dense roots protect juvenile marine life, offering dolphins abundant prey. Mangroves improve water quality by filtering pollutants, essential for dolphin health, and protect coastlines from erosion, maintaining stable habitats.

Graphic © WWF-Malaysia

Help protect mangroves and dolphins in Rajang-Belawai-Paloh

WWF-Malaysia's efforts to conserve dolphins and Rajang-Belawai-Paloh

Research: Boat-based surveys were conducted in collaboration with Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) to establish the population estimates of Irrawaddy dolphins in Rajang-Belawai-Paloh.

Fishers engagement: Co-developing and implementing actions to prevent incidental catch of dolphins in fishing nets as well as implementing fisheries improvement projects to enhance the well-being and livelihood of fishers.

Awareness and education: Educating local communities about the importance of mangroves and dolphins fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages participation in conservation activities, such as habitat restoration and protection initiatives.

Community empowerment: Support local communities by implementing initiatives that empower them to actively participate in and lead conservation efforts. This includes establishing a community participatory committee platform, training programmes, and facilitating the implementation of conservation activities.

Mangrove rehabilitation: Collaborate closely with local communities to restore degraded mangroves, in order to maintain the ecosystem crucial for their livelihoods.

Help WWF-Malaysia conserve our mangroves and dolphins, as well as safeguard the future of local communities in Rajang-Belawai-Paloh