Sunplay Expands Ocean Conservation Efforts with Coral Reef and Sea Turtle Protection in Semporna

Sunplay is continuing its efforts to support Malaysia’s marine ecosystems with the sixth year of its “Sending Love & Care to the Ocean” CSR initiative.

The programme, led by Rohto-Mentholatum (M) Sdn. Bhd., is now entering its second year of collaboration with the Tropical Research and Conservation Centre (TRACC). This year, Sunplay is expanding its focus beyond coral reef restoration to include sea turtle conservation in Pulau Pom Pom, Semporna.

The area is recognised for its rich marine biodiversity, making it an important location for conservation efforts.

Restoring Damaged Coral Reefs

As part of the latest programme, two large-scale 3D artificial reef structures will be built and placed on degraded reef slopes that have been heavily affected by prolonged blast-fishing activities.

The artificial reefs are designed to provide new habitats for marine life while creating a stable base for the transplantation of 480 coral fragments.

The aim is to help damaged reef areas recover while supporting the wider marine ecosystem that depends on healthy coral reefs.

Protecting Sea Turtle Nests

For the first time, Sunplay’s conservation programme will also include a dedicated sea turtle protection effort.

During the peak nesting season from June to August, Sunplay is supporting a three-month Turtle Hatchery and Nest Protection Programme.

The programme will identify and carefully relocate 50 vulnerable nests belonging to Green Turtles and critically endangered Hawksbill Turtles to protected hatchery environments.

Through this effort, approximately 3,750 turtle hatchlings are expected to safely hatch and eventually be released into the ocean.

Protecting these nests is particularly important as young turtles face numerous threats before they reach the sea and throughout their early stages of life.

Why Coral Reefs Matter

Coral reefs are facing increasing pressure from climate change, pollution and unsustainable fishing practices.

When coral reefs decline, the impact goes beyond the reefs themselves. Marine biodiversity, coastal protection and food sources can all be affected, while species that rely on healthy marine habitats—including sea turtles—can also be put at greater risk.

By supporting both coral reef restoration and sea turtle conservation, Sunplay is taking a broader approach to marine conservation rather than focusing on a single part of the ecosystem.

“At Sunplay, we take our responsibility to protect the ocean seriously, particularly as environmental pressures continue to intensify. Ocean health is deeply interconnected. The continued decline of coral reefs not only weakens marine biodiversity but also disrupts the balance of the wider ecosystem on which species such as sea turtles depend,” said Lim Mei Yuen, General Manager of Rohto-Mentholatum (M) Sdn. Bhd.

“This is why we are expanding our efforts beyond coral reef restoration to include sea turtle conservation in Semporna. Through this broader approach, we hope to contribute towards a healthier and more resilient marine environment for future generations.”

Lim added that Sunplay will continue working with TRACC and its conservation expertise to strengthen the partnership and create a longer-term impact on marine conservation.

Consumers Can Support the Initiative

The conservation programme is also supported through a consumer fundraising campaign.

During the campaign period, a portion of the proceeds from selected Sunplay products sold at Watsons Malaysia will be channelled towards Sunplay’s marine conservation projects in Semporna.

The initiative also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using oceans, seas and marine resources.

Sun Protection with Marine Life in Mind

Sunplay’s focus on ocean conservation also extends to its sunscreen products.

The Sunplay Ultra Eco-Safe UV Lotion is designed with reef-conscious considerations, giving consumers an option for everyday sun protection while being more mindful of marine environments.

The sunscreen features EcoProtect™ Technology and 100% non-nano zinc oxide, providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Its lightweight and water-resistant formula is designed for everyday use as well as outdoor and water-based activities.

For Sunplay, the message is straightforward: protecting our skin from the sun and being more conscious of the environment can go hand in hand.

Consumers can find out more about Sunplay’s “Sending Love & Care to the Ocean” initiative through Sunplay Malaysia’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.