The National Water Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM), through its Coastal and Oceanographic Research Centre (PKPO), has successfully carried out an operation to retrieve Acoustic Wave and Current Profiler (AWAC) equipment to complete the wave and current observation cycle in the waters of Mukah that representing the Central Zone of Sarawak in collaboration with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC). Meanwhile, the fourth cycle operation in the waters of Pulau Talang-Talang, representing the Southern Zone of Sarawak, was implemented in collaboration with the Sarawak Marine Fisheries Department (JPLS).
The operation was conducted by a team of NAHRIM divers led by Mr. Ahmad Tarmizi Alwi, alongside four officers and with the assistance of local residents. The observation activity, which lasted for nearly 10 months from December 2025 to October 2026, generated a vital series of oceanographic data to strengthen NAHRIM’s long-term marine monitoring network in Malaysia’s strategic waters.
The use of high-precision AWAC instruments allows wave and current parameters to be recorded consistently at a high temporal resolution. This observation period covering the Northeast Monsoon, Transition Monsoon, and Southwest Monsoon, provides an essential scientific foundation for identifying seasonal variations and understanding the hydrodynamic patterns of Sarawak’s waters.
The acquired data holds strategic value in supporting various research and technical needs, including sea-level rise studies, coastal engineering, maritime safety and navigation, as well as the development and calibration of hydrodynamic models. The high-resolution current data collected also has the potential to support the requirements of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) S-100/S-111 standards, particularly for applications related to marine current information, and contributes to the development of the Malaysian Marine Digital Twin.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in developing long-term oceanographic time-series data for Sarawak’s waters. The continuity of periodic observation programs will enable NAHRIM to build a stronger scientific baseline, evaluate inter-seasonal and inter-annual changes, and enhance understanding of Sarawak’s aquatic dynamics.
NAHRIM extends its highest appreciation and gratitude to SFC, JPLS, and the local community for their cooperation and support in ensuring the smooth execution of this observation operation.
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