This book provides an in-depth illustrated approach for readers to learn how to better protect dugongs and seagrasses in Sibu and Tinggi lsland in Johor, Malaysia. The manual first begins by introducing the background of the dugong, its general characteristics and distribution around the world including the major populations found, habitat and ecology of the dugong. Also discussed are the importance of ‘Best Practice’ and the threats facing dugongs particularly in Sibu and Tinggi island.
ln the discussions of ‘Vessels interactions with dugong and opportunistic dugong watching’ the manual provides information for boat users, tourists, divers and swimmers on how to interact, when they come in contact with dugongs. The importance of seagrasses ecologically and economically as a source of food and income is also explained. Preventing seagrass degrading and what the public can do especially boat operators, follows. The effects of coastal development are also discussed together with some of the guidelines that coastal zone developers should consider. The last section describes ways the public can assist in the first response to sightings of dugongs dead or alive. Guidance is offered for what to do in cases of incidental entanglement, stranding incidents and animals found floating.
It is hoped that educationists, the general public and the stakeholders such as resort owners, fisheries officers, fishermen from Sibu and Tinggi Island will benefit from this manual which is a simple and effective guideline to protecting and conserving the endangered dugong.
