Oceans Without Borders: CEMACS and TIO Launch Joint Marine Observation Station

 MSOS officially launched at CEMACS, USM - A new chapter in regional marine science begins

马来西亚 - 中国海洋科学长期联合观测站正式启动

26 May 2025 | Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia

Penang, Malaysia - The coastal research landscape in Southeast Asia took a significant step forward on 26 May 2025, with the official launch of the Malaysia - China Joint Coastal Long-Term Marine Scientific Observation Station (MSOS) at CEMACS, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

The MSOS is the result of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed in 2021 between USM and China’s Third Institute of Oceanography (TIO). This landmark initiative reflects a mutual commitment to strengthen regional marine scientific efforts, particularly in addressing environmental challenges facing coastal and marine ecosystems.

The officiation ceremony was jointly led by Prof. Dr. Jianhui Liu, Deputy Chief Engineer of TIO, and Prof. Dato’ Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai, Director of CEMACS. The event brought together institutional representatives, researchers, and students, signaling a shared dedication to advancing ocean research and capacity building.

From Agreement to Action: Strengthening Regional Marine Science

With the launch of MSOS, CEMACS and TIO are poised to collaborate on various research and training activities that focus on:

• Monitoring marine and coastal environments to better understand long-term ecological changes.
• Joint academic and field-based initiatives, including collaborative postgraduate training and researcher exchanges.
• Organizing scientific workshops, symposia, and technical expeditions to build skills and foster scientific dialogue.

The MSOS initiative is envisioned as a platform to promote mutual learning, strengthen scientific capabilities, and encourage regional engagement in marine sustainability efforts.

Charting the Course Ahead

Several potential future projects have emerged from ongoing technical discussions and mutual interest. These include:

• Exploring action-orientated strategies for erosion-prone areas such as Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi, focusing on ecological buffers and green engineering solutions.
• Studying harmful algal bloom (HAB) occurrences in aquaculture zones in southeast Penang, integrating field validation with satellite monitoring.
• Developing integrated tools and methods to enhance marine monitoring and capacity development.

While still at the discussion and planning stage, both institutions have expressed strong interest in advancing these topics into collaborative projects.

A Vision for the Region

The launch of MSOS underscores CEMACS’s continued role as a regional leader in marine and coastal research. Through this collaboration, CEMACS aims to strengthen regional scientific networks, support young researchers, and advance integrated solutions to pressing marine challenges.

With science as a bridge, this partnership represents a shared vision for a resilient and sustainable ocean future.

Follow CEMACS for upcoming updates on MSOS activities, field expeditions, and training opportunities.

Sources: Mr. Sim Yee Kwang (Senior Science Officer)