LABUAN WATERS HOME TO HAWKSBILL, GREEN TURTLES

Beneath the calm turquoise waters surrounding the island lies a vibrant marine world - corals blooming with life, colourful reef fish darting through the currents, and sea turtles gliding gracefully in their natural habitat.

Once known mainly as a diver’s hidden gem, the area is now emerging as a crucial sanctuary for hawksbill turtles (penyu karah) and green turtles (penyu agar).

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Recent findings by the Labuan Dive Club have revealed the marine zones around Rusukan Besar, Rusukan Kecil and Kuraman islands are not only scenic dive sites but also vital habitats for these endangered species, underscoring Labuan’s growing importance in marine conservation and eco-tourism.

Labuan Dive Club president Teoh Ming Woei said his team’s recent underwater observations showed regular turtle activity across these waters, which form part of the Labuan Marine Park.

“Our divers have recorded frequent sightings of both juvenile and adult hawksbill turtles within these zones. 

“This is an encouraging sign that Labuan’s marine environment is healthy, balanced, and capable of supporting sensitive species such as sea turtles,” he told Bernama.

Teoh said the discovery augurs well for Labuan’s recreational diving industry, positioning the island’s dive sites among the most attractive and ecologically significant in Malaysia.

 “Turtles are a major draw for divers worldwide…their presence here not only highlights the biodiversity of our reefs but also enhances Labuan’s appeal as a sustainable diving destination on par with other renowned spots in the country,” he said.

LABUAN MARINE PARK A HAVEN BENEATH THE WAVES

The Rusukan Besar, Rusukan Kecil and Kuraman islands, located within the Labuan Marine Park, are home to rich coral ecosystems and thriving marine life. 

The park’s shallow reefs, coral slopes, and sandy seabeds provide a natural refuge for both hawksbill and green turtles to feed, rest and navigate.

Teoh said the club’s divers observed hawksbill turtles feeding on sponges along the coral slopes, while green turtles were seen grazing on seagrass beds near Rusukan Kecil.

“These patterns are consistent with the species’ natural behaviour. The abundance of coral, sponges and seagrass in these waters makes them ideal feeding grounds,” Teoh added.

He noted the sightings, made during a series of dives between June and September, indicate the area’s suitability as both a feeding and migratory corridor for turtles moving between the South China Sea and Brunei Bay.

SAFE PASSAGE FOR MIGRATING TURTLES

Teoh said Labuan’s surrounding waters offer safe passage for migrating turtles due to their relatively calm currents, protected status, and low levels of destructive fishing activity.

“These turtles often travel great distances across the South China Sea. Labuan’s marine park serves as an important resting and feeding stop on their journey,” he said.

He added the close proximity between Labuan’s nesting beaches and these turtle-feeding areas further underscores the ecological connectivity of the island’s marine environment.

CONSERVATION AND RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

While praising the work of the Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF) and Labuan Marine Park authorities in safeguarding nesting sites, Teoh stressed that equal attention should now be given to the underwater habitats that support turtles year-round.

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“Conservation must go beyond beaches…turtles spend most of their lives in the sea. Protecting their underwater habitats is crucial for their long-term survival,” he said.

He proposed establishing anchor-free zones, conducting regular marine surveys, and introducing community-based turtle monitoring involving local divers and fishermen.

 DOF data indicates that Labuan recorded over 2,562 turtle eggs last year, with more than 1,423 hatchlings released into the sea — largely from the Rusukan Besar and Rusukan Kecil nesting sites.

STRENGTHENING LABUAN’S ECO-TOURISM IDENTITY

Teoh said the discovery of these turtle populations further strengthens Labuan’s image as a world-class eco-tourism destination, while offering a valuable opportunity to promote responsible diving practices among operators and visitors.

“Labuan’s diving sites, with shipwrecks, coral gardens, and now confirmed turtle habitats, can stand shoulder to shoulder with the country’s premier dive locations such as Sipadan, Mabul, and Tioman,” he said.

He added that to further boost recreational diving tourism, local authorities should consider developing facilities such as a dedicated diver’s jetty, similar to those available in Kota Kinabalu.

“Such facilities would make diving activities more convenient, organised and attractive to visiting divers. 

“A well-equipped dive jetty can help manage safety, boat traffic and logistics, while enhancing Labuan’s reputation as a professional diving hub,” Teoh said.

He added that the findings would also help conservationists and tourism agencies work together to position Labuan as a model for sustainable marine tourism.

“Turtles don’t recognise boundaries, they follow reefs, currents, and safe waters…our task is to       ensure Labuan remains part of that safe passage,” Teoh said.

The Labuan Dive Club, established in 2006, continues to collaborate with government agencies, universities and conservation groups in documenting marine biodiversity and promoting responsible diving across the island.