FOB Students Engage in Marine Conservation through PSR Visit to Turtle Conservation Centre

A group of 15 students from the Faculty of Business (FOB), accompanied by their lecturer Ms. Lim Su Yin, participated in a Personal Social Responsibility (PSR) project at the Turtle Conservation and Information Centre, Padang Kemunting, Melaka on 12 June 2026. The visit aimed to enhance students’ awareness of marine conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.

The programme began with a warm welcome from the centre, followed by an informative introduction to sea turtles, particularly the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), one of the most distinctive and endangered turtle species, recognised for its uniquely curved beak-like mouth resembling that of an eagle. The centre highlighted that Padang Kemunting beaches record some of the highest turtle landings in Melaka, making it a vital site for conservation efforts.

Students were then guided through several learning stations, including visits to the gallery, turtle pond, and hatchery. At the hatchery, they learned how turtle eggs are carefully protected in nests approximately 45cm deep and monitored over a hatching period of around 60 days. The facility is capable of accommodating between 300 to 600 nests during each spawning season. Once hatched, baby turtles are released into the sea, continuing a natural life cycle that often sees them returning to their birthplace as adults.

The centre also emphasised that Hawksbill Turtles are a protected species under the Fisheries Act 1985, where only licensed individuals are permitted to handle or relocate eggs, reflecting the strict conservation measures in place to safeguard their survival.

Through this hands-on experience, students gained valuable insights into environmental stewardship and the importance of preserving marine biodiversity. The visit not only deepened their understanding of conservation efforts but also encouraged a stronger sense of responsibility towards protecting endangered species for future generations.