SKLMP had conducted a scientific diving training program at Pulisan Bay (North Sulawesi, Indonesia) between 20 and 24 May 2023. This collaborative program was led by our Associate Director, Dr. Leo Lai Chan in partnership with Wallace Conservation Licoupang and Sam Ratulangi University.

The team spent 5 days conducting dive site assessments and staff training, practicing the use of Underwater Information Systems (UWIS) and Ocean Plan system, and conducted underwater habitat mapping survey and benthic dinoflagellate sampling. Apart from identifying the most suitable sites for scientific diver training, the team developed integrated scientific diving training programs, International Organisation of Standards Standard (ISO Standard) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in underwater habitat mapping and health monitoring of coral reef ecosystems, and advanced their skills in underwater sampling techniques.

The scientific diving training program at Pulisan Bay was a great success. It opened up new opportunities for further international research and collaboration.