Development of Management, Research and Education programmes at the world’s first Trans-Boundary Marine Park between Sabah, Malaysia and the Philippines.

¹Sabah Parks
P.O. Box 10626, 88806 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
²Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
³Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippines
⁴Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas, Philippines
#9 Malingap Street Teacher's Village, Diliman, QuezonCity, Philippines 1101

1.0 Introduction and Review
Marine turtles are endangered to the point of possible worldwide extinction.
With the current destruction of many of their nesting and foraging habitats, it has become imperative that further conservation measures be taken, and adequate legislation adopted, if the turtles are to survive even the next century.

The Turtle Islands Park in Sabah, Malaysia and the immediately adjacent Philippine islands host some of Southeast Asia's most important foraging and nesting turtle populations, and together stand to play a key role in supporting the species' continued survival and well-being in the region. The State of Sabah, through the Sabah Parks Board of Trustees, has entered into bilateral conservation and management agreement with the neighboring Philippines to establish a Turtle Islands Heritage Protected Area (TIHPA) encompassing the islands where large numbers of turtles have been found to nest.

The Park will also extend to the outer edges of the fringing coral reefs around the islands, and will include the waters within the reaches of these reefs and islands. The protection of the expanse of waters and the numerous nesting beaches is expected to limit turtle mortality and enhance their chances of survival. This extensive coverage shall protect not only the marine turtles, but also the coral reefs, the seagrass beds and other marine ecosystems, the islands and their inhabitants. The TIHPA will be jointly administered by Sabah Parks and Department of Environment and Natural Resources of the Philippines with technical assistance from the Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation at the University Malaysia Sarawak.

In this case, the TIHPA will represent the first of its kind in the world, taking conservation across international boundaries in the interests of conservation, in an entirely marine context. In support of the joint conservation strategy, recent genetic studies conducted through the University of Queensland, Australia have linked the Sabah nesting turtles directly with those of the Philippines, and indirectly with other SE Asian nesting groups.

At the same time, the coral reefs that surround the islands host a myriad species of fishes and invertebrates, and act as nursery areas for many of the commercial fisheries located nearby. The location of the islands, close to the thriving Malaysian markets but afar from the major Philippine ports, presents a unique management challenge to satisfy the inhabitants of the islands while at the same time conserving the marine resources.

This project addresses four crucial areas for the Turtle Islands Heritage Protected Area (TIHPA) to function effectively and sustainably: (1) operationalize the Joint Management Committee; (2) develop a long term joint management plan; (3) conduct joint management-oriented research; and (4) formulate a sustainable financing mechanism.

The development of a management strategy for the TIHPA is expected to serve as a model for future trans-boundary marine parks around the world. With it’s broad spectrum of coverage, from socio-economic development of the villages to wildlife and environment conservation based on scientific principles, the management plan will be developed for the TIHPA to ensure equitable use of natural resources and the conservation of marine biodiversity.

1.1 Issues regarding Turtle Conservation
Since the late 1950s, when Archie Carr pioneered the concept of turtle conservation, and through to modern times, the science and philosophy of turtle conservation have developed enormously. Several factors have made the conservation of these relics of prehistoric days unique and highly specialised:

Longevity. Marine turtles are estimated to live long lives, even up to 100 years. They are known to reach sexual maturity only after 15 to 40 years depending on species, presenting unique management requirements: Turtle hatchlings emerging today might only return to nest after 20 to 30 years, by which time few, if any, of our present scientists and managers will be following their progress. Additionally, their long absence from known feeding or foraging sites masks any changes to population sizes (see Fig. 1)

• Egg Collection. Numerous coastal villagers consume turtle eggs as a regular component of their diet. In villages where the primary protein source is derived from fish, turtle eggs provided a welcome change. However, with the advent of refrigeration to store the eggs, and power boats to transport them to distant markets, the pressures on the turtle populations have increased dramatically.

• Entrapment in Fishing Gear. Similarly, with the development of commercial fisheries in many tropical seas, turtles have come under severe pressure due to entrapment in trawl and drift nets. Recently, even the Government of Malaysia was informed by foreign envoys that overseas fishery markets might dry up if measures were not taken to ensure the protection of turtles during shrimp trawling operations.

• Habitat Destruction. Marine turtles utilise a number of habitats, such as coral reefs for Hawksbill feeding grounds, seagrass beds as Green turtle feeding grounds, sandy beaches for nesting and open seas as migratory avenues. With the development of the tourism industry, many coastal habitats including beaches and coral reefs, have been degraded. Seagrass beds are damaged by fishing trawlers, and the high seas are littered with debris and deadly drift nets.

1.2 Location of the TIHPA
Nine islands make up the proposed turtle islands heritage protected area. Three islands, namely Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan designated by Malaysia; and Boaan, Langaan, Great Bakkungaan, Lihiman, Taganak and Baguan designated by the Philippines (Fig. 2).

Fig.2: Approximate location and demarcation of the Malaysia-Philippines TIHPA.

1.3 Turtle Conservation in East Malaysia
The state of Sabah plays host to several important marine turtle populations, and has taken an active role in their conservation with the establishment of the Turtle Islands Park and the enactment of legislation to curb illegal egg poaching. The legislation has ensured the protection of turtles at their nesting beaches, and the hatchery programs that are carried out on each of the three islands have been extremely successful to date providing an impressive volume of data on turtle eggs and survival.

Sabah has operated egg hatcheries since 1966 on these three primary turtle rookeries, which have released millions of hatchlings to the wild after being incubated under controlled conditions. Despite occasional criticisms regarding the techniques employed at these hatcheries, it is important to note that the State has invested heavily in terms of time, labor, finances and dedication to the conservation of these endangered animals over the last three decades.

However, notwithstanding the encouraging efforts displayed by the State authorities, and the current indications that numbers of turtles visiting the three islands has risen slightly in the last decade, adult turtle populations and nesting frequencies in the region continue to decline. Many of the turtles fail to return years after being tagged, which is a clear indication that they are being lost to other [possibly nearby] pressures. The decline results in a loss of a touristic attraction with its own share of revenue for the State, and also in the loss of some of the ocean's oldest surviving reptiles and important members of the marine community.

Nesting in Sabah occurs primarily on the three islands of the Turtle Islands Park, namely Pulau Selingan, P. Bakungan Kecil and P. Gulisan, and on P. Sipadan, Sabah's oceanic SCUBA diving resort island. Three species of turtle nest on the State's islands and beaches, the green Chelonia mydas, the Hawksbill Eretmochelys imbricata and the Olive Ridley Lepidochelys olivacea. The green turtle is the most abundant, whereas the Olive Ridley is only infrequently found nesting on the beaches.

The turtles have become one of the State's major tourist attractions, and centers have been established to provide tourists with close-up experiences with nesting females. Much of the efforts on the part of the Park rangers and guides is aimed at the translocation of the eggs from fresh nests back to the hatcheries, where tourists can see conservation efforts in action. Additionally, adult turtle tagging is practiced for new sightings, and carapace measurements are taken for new and resighted individuals.

The limitations on data collection restricts the analysis of population morphometrics, and modeling of population structure and dynamics. Nesting patterns for individuals, both short and long-term, are almost impossible to predict due to the limitations on data retrieval. In an effort to determine more closely the fate of the adult populations and egg development, it is becoming more and more necessary to study the nesting patterns and frequency along with adult population dynamics.

This can only be accomplished by extending the data collection to include additional morphometric measurements and nesting parameters. Additionally, this data needs to be computerised and analyzed for predictions and population modeling

In comparison, the large volume of data generated by the hatcheries on egg survival statistics and hatchling releases is extremely organised. In order to determine the overall efficiency of these hatchery operations, it is necessary to investigate the manner in which natural nest conditions are reproduced under artificial circumstances within the Park hatcheries. The manner in which hatchling release programmes are carried out will determine the initial survival of the hatchlings, and further investigations are currently needed to ensure the optimum management strategies. The updating of available information into computer databases would help resolve the difficulty of access to the current data.

1.4 Turtle Conservation in the Philippines
Nesting on the Philippine islands adjacent to those of Turtle Islands Park in Sabah mirrors in a large way that of the Sabah nesting. However, little data is available at the moment (also due to lack of computerisation) on current trends. The Philippine islands, unlike those on the Malaysian side, are inhabited by fishing communities who currently rely on the sale of turtle eggs as a significant portion of their income. At present, the balance that has been struck between conservation officers and the islanders lies at 30% for conservation and 70% for local consumption or sale (one of the long-term aims of this project is to alter this ratio to benefit the turtles). Marine turtle conservation in these islands follows the procedures outlined in the Manual on Marine Turtle and Dugong Conservation in the Philippines prepared by the Pawikan Conservation Project of the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau within the Department of Environment and Natural resources.

2.0 HISTORY IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SABAH - PHILIPPINES TIHPA
After managing portions of the Turtle Islands separately, accumulated data overwhelmingly supported the view that this group of islands comprised a sea turtle nesting ground requiring joint Malaysian-Philippine management. In consonance with underlying scientifically-sound principles, both governments mutually agreed to undertake concerted actions necessary to ensure the long term survival of sea turtle populations nesting in the Philippine-Sabah Turtle Islands. Progress in the establishment of the TIHPA was as follows:

• 1976: Dr. Wayne King, New York Zoological Society presents a memorandum entitled "A Proposal to Establish the First International Marine Turtle Sanctuary" to the IUCN Survival Service Commission, recommending the establishment of the Park for the protection of marine turtles.

• 1977: Sabah Parks recommends the establishment of a Park to the Chairman of Sabah Parks Board of Trustees.

• 1979: Sabah Parks discusses the Park’s establishment at the World Conference on Sea Turtle Conservation in Washington.

• 1981: Technical workshop on the establishment of an International Marine Turtle Sanctuary held in Manila, Philippines.

• 1990: First meeting of the ASEAN Working Group on Nature Conservation (AWGNC), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Malaysia prepares and presents a proposal on marine turtle conservation to the ASEAN Senior Officials.

• 1991: Second AWGNG meeting, Manila, Philippines. Philippine representatives tasked with preparing a proposal to conduct a workshop on turtle conservation.

• 1993: First ASEAN Symposium-Workshop on Marine Turtle Conservation. Sabah Parks initiates a discussion on bilateral cooperation with Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau of the Philippines.

• 1995: Second meeting of the Malaysian-Philippines Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Philippines presents proposal on turtle conservation. Establishment of a Joint Technical Working Group to study the draft Memorandum of Agreement submitted.

• 1995: First meeting of the Joint Technical Working Group, Sandakan, Sabah. Draft Memorandum of Agreement agreed to by both parties.

2.1 Recent Developments (1996)
After almost two decades of intermittent reformulation, continuous bilateral consultations were undertaken during the past two years. As a result, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) for the establishment of the Turtle Islands Heritage Protected Area (TIHPA) was drafted and approved by both parties. The document was signed on May 31st 1996 by the heads of the foreign affairs offices of the governments of Malaysia and the Philippines. This MOA now forms the basis of understanding for bilateral cooperation between the governments of Malaysia and the Philippines for the conservation of marine turtles in the Philippine-Sabah Turtle Islands.

3.0 Management Objectives
Having formalized their joint conservation framework, both governments can now address specific management issues requiring urgent resolution. Globally, a myriad of interlinked phenomena threaten sea turtles with extinction. Accurately identifying, counteracting and preempting threats require site-specific management. The project intends to develop a management strategy for the TIHPA taking into consideration the input from both Malaysian and Philippine wildlife authorities. The management shall focus on the following main areas:

3.1 Conservation and Preservation with Local Participation

• The removal of turtle eggs by the residents of the fishing villages, either for local consumption or for sale.
• Enhancing the percentage of eggs utilised for conservation.
• Enforcement of regulations.
• Regulating access to the islands.
• Implementing light pollution control measures.

• The social needs of the resident villagers.
• Developing alternative forms of employment for the villagers.
• Eco-Tourism

• Educational Programmes.
• Promotional Material.

3.4 Research

• Research Programmes on the Islands.
• Standardisation of Research Techniques.
• Standardisation of Hatchery Techniques.
• Identifying foraging grounds within the Park boundaries.
• Automation of data retrieval systems and data sharing.

4.0 Institutional arrangements
Sabah Parks will be the lead proponent. Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Pawikan Conservation Project-PAWB-DENR and WWF-Philippine Program will be the project collaborators. Sabah Parks will be the recipient of the grant which would later be appropriated to the collaborators in accordance with the approved activities. These activities would be logistically undertaken through the following channels:

4.1 Project Management: Creation of the Project Management Team (PMT)
The PMT will be composed of representatives from the different collaborating institutions and will ensure the attainment of the project objectives. The PMT will be responsible for preparing the annual meetings of the Joint Management Committee. The PMT will formulate the work program for the First Year of Operations of the TIHPA and present the work programme to the Joint Management Committee for its evaluation and approval. The amount of project funds set aside for specific research activities will be determined by the Project Management Team.

4.2 Institution Building Component: Development of a Joint Management Committee (JMC)
Pursuant to Article 3 of the Memorandum of Agreement, a JMC will determine the programmes to be implemented within the TIHPA. Meetings of the committee involving the evaluation and approval of annual work programs of TIHPA will be supported by the project. The first organizational meeting of the JMC will be conducted in Sandakan, Sabah. During this meeting a Joint Technical Committee (JTC) will be formed by the JMC. This committee could be composed of either members of the JMC themselves or specialists from outside the JMC. After developing project evaluation criteria, the JTC will prioritize and approve research proposals. The JMC will submit its approved work programme to the Malaysia-Philippine Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC). The JTC will be tasked to formulate annual programs for the succeeding years and submitted to the JMC for review and adoption.

4.3 Management Planning Component: Development of a long-term management plan.
This would serve as a guide for future actions and management interventions. A joint management planning team will be organized. Capability building training will be conducted for the implementing units of the Philippines and Malaysia. Resource assessments will be undertaken for marine and terrestrial ecosystems. A detailed socio-economic-cultural assessment will be undertaken simultaneously with a census of the occupants within the TIHPA. Throughout the management planning process, the public will be consulted. The TIHPA will be divided into management zones to delineate areas for specific management objectives. Additionally, the TIHPA boundaries will be reviewed. Integrated development options including community-based management schemes will be prepared including the financial implications of each option. The management plan will be formulated based on the resource assessments and results of the public consultation. Copies of the draft plan is evaluated and analyzed, scheduled and priorities will be designed. The finalized management plan will be submitted to the JMC for its adoption. The JMC will submit the approved management plan to the JCBC.

4.4 Research Component: Implementation of management-oriented research
Ensuring the long-term survival of the sea turtle populations in the Philippines-Sabah Turtle Islands relies inextricably on maintaining sound scientific basis for decision-making. Complexities stemming from the life history of sea turtles and the marine environment itself continue to pose profound challenges to the design of management-oriented researches and the acquisition of data. Developing an interdisciplinary research program will inform the managers and decision makers of actions that can ensure sustainable development and conservation of the marine resources. A joint research fund will be established to support priority research activities.

4.5 Sustainable Financing Component: Formulation of a sustainable financing mechanism.
Ensuring the long-term management of the TIHPA is unimpeded requires sustaining conservation efforts beyond the project duration. acquiring resources, both financial and technical, remains a critical activity. after the termination of funds coming MacArthur Foundation, the operating funds will come from sustainable financing mechanisms developed by the project. Preparatory activities will include collation of secondary data, on-site investigation and identification of sustainable financing options. The project will determine the feasibility of reducing exploitation of turtle eggs through developing of alternative employment opportunities. A sustainable financing plan will be developed based on the survey. The plan will be presented to the JMC for review and approval.

5.0 Key Initiatives

5.1 Conservation INITIATIVE MARKED FOR CRITICAL FUNDING!

The conservation of wildlife and other natural resources cannot be disassociated with the needs and the cultural heritage of the people exploiting said resources. Currently the islands in Sabah are protected and patrolled nightly to ensure that no eggs are taken from the nests. In Sabah, the removal of turtle eggs for sale or consumption is illegal, yet eggs are invariably available at certain markets, such as the one in Sandakan. Many, if not all, of the eggs sold in Sandakan originate from the nearby Philippine islands.

The sale of eggs represents an important source of revenue for the villagers, who purchase permits from the government to collect the eggs on their beaches. At present, 30% of eggs deposited are collected and reared in hatcheries, while the remaining 70% is sold at market. The latest recommendations of the IUCN Marine Turtle Specialist Group recommend the complete opposite. The group indicates that at least 70% of the eggs are to be maintained for conservation if the population is to survive. Explaining the need for conservation to villagers who have exploited this resource for generations and ensuring the implementation of protection schemes shall be two of the key components of this programme.

5.2 Enforcement of regulations.
Bilateral conservation schemes will require bilateral enforcement. The protection of the marine turtles will depend on the successful enforcement of regulations carried out with the same degree of commitment and means. The project shall determine the best manner in which this may be accomplished.

5.3 Environmental Parameter Controls
Marine turtles are sensitive to a host of environmental parameters, such as light pollution, nesting beach access and predation. Bright lights along the shore deters turtles from nesting, and disorients hatchlings on their seaward journey. Access to the nesting beaches may be restricted by accumulated debris and near-shore fishing nets. Predation, both from wild animals and humans, decreases the efficacy of long-term conservation strategies. The joint management of these and other environmental threats will ensure the marine turtles in the region.

5.4 Predation
Hatchling predation by fishes as they are released to the water after collection from the hatchery has been found to exceed 50% in certain areas in the world. the project shall investigate hatchling predation and design release programmes to counter the loss.

5.5 Health of Hatchlings
As a result of hatchery incubation, it is hypothesized that hatchlings will be weaker and thus have lower probability of survival that natural-reared hatchlings. In the hatchery undeveloped eggs from previous clutches could cause bacterial and fungal infestations, and coupled with the temperatures during incubation could result in weaker hatchlings, and possibly lower egg survival rates. Additionally, red ant infestations of hatchlings have been observed in the hatchery, an occurrence which has not been found in nests developed in-situ.

5.6 Regulating access to the islands.
At present the number of boats which may land at the Turtle island Park is regulated by the Sabah Parks authorities in en effort to curb illegal egg poaching. In the Philippines this may not be a practical solution, as the villages there require access to commercial trade links (they need to sell their products and buy those shipped in). It is proposed that a form of monitoring be implemented that will curb the illegal sale of eggs. However, it is hoped that the islanders themselves shall assist in regulating the access to the egg trade.

5.7 Data Sharing.
No bilateral programme would succeed without the practically unrestrained sharing of data. This does not only refer to scientific data, but to numbers of eggs sold, numbers of visitors, social attitudes and beliefs, etc. The programme shall strive to open up a clear line of communication between the involved parties without compromising such things as national security, immigration and safety.


6.0 EDUCATIONAL GOALS INITIATIVE MARKED FOR CRITICAL FUNDING!
6.1 Educational Programmes: Education of island inhabitants
The education of the local villagers in the need for conservation efforts shall be a key component of the project. The programme shall include meetings with village elders and subsequently with fishermen and egg collectors to explain aspects of the turtle’s life-cycle. These aspects may not be immediately apparent to them, for what may have been a sustainable harvest 20 years ago may not be so today. This might be the result of several factors including increased mobility, larger market size and the decrease in availability of eggs from other sectors. Additionally, the effects of the rapidly expanding fishing fleet in the region may be causing mortality that was not previously significant.

6.2 School Visits
The program aims to develop a series of projects and visiting programmes for schoolchildren of all ages to witness the turtle nesting process and to learn about marine conservation in general. These visits are already taking place to a small extent on several of the Philippine Islands.

6.3 Promotional Material (audiovisual and printed matter)
External educational programmes that will be developed by the project shall include written material, a film and electronic availability of the TIHPA activities. A poster shall be designed, printed and distributed in Sabah and the Philippines to raise awareness of the project. A documentary shall be produced highlighting the turtle activity patterns and the activities of the TIHPA. Finally, the information listed above shall be made available in electronic format on the World Wide Web to ensure international recognition.

7.0 Research OBJECTIVES and STRATEGIES
Research on the nesting adults at Turtle Islands Park in Sabah has generated volumes of data on nesting ecology which may be used to monitor trends in nesting patterns. However, this data has proven hard to extract due to lack of computerisation. Much attention recently has been focused on the turtle eggs and artificial incubation schemes, but the efficacy of these artificial rearing programs is not well documented. Additionally, little data is available regarding adult morphometrics, and energy budgets from adults through to eggs and hatchlings. With the development of a computerized data handling system, modeling will enable population dynamics and re-nesting prediction. The primary objectives of research programmes will be to:

• To develop comprehensive information on adult population status, eggs and hatchlings.
• To create education strategies for use in conservation efforts.
• To monitor changes in the marine environment.
• To develop alternative forms of livelihood for the islands inhabitants.

7.1 Incidental Captures of Turtles
The level of fishing intensity in the waters within the TIHPA and the rate of incidental capture will provide an indication of the extent of fishery-related mortality. It is hoped that an observer programme may be initiated upon the fishing vessels with the cooperation of the fishing industry itself. Results of this work may be used in policy making processes.

7.2 Coral Reef Research
As a major component of the marine park, coral reefs provide, in direct and indirect manners, much of the protein in the diets of the island inhabitants. The protection of these reefs from destructive practices such as dynamite and cyanide fishing will ensure sustainable use of the reef resources, and an alternative to turtle egg consumption.

7.3 Water Quality and Hydrography
The hydrological conditions within the Park waters will be affected by island runoff and pollution dumping, adversely affecting the marine ecosystems and the people’s livelihood. Monitoring water quality parameters will ensure early warnings for these changes, upon which the Park management may act accordingly.

7.4 Tourism Impact and Carrying Capacity
At present the islands on the Malaysian side benefit from a tourist industry that often threatens to overload the island’s carrying capacity. The opportunity to develop further tourist destinations, even on the Philippine islands, would provide additional income and alleviate some of the pressures on the natural resources. However, this development must be based upon sound studies on the carrying capacity of the islands, and any negative impact of such economic development.

7.5 Genetic Mapping
Using mitochondrial DNA analysis of the nesting females, a genetic map will be created for the TIHPA. The map will be useful in the identification of populations, or Ecologically Significant Units (ECUs), in the region.

7.6 Disease Monitoring
Monitoring of nesting females and resident males for outbreaks of diseases, especially Green Turtle Fibropapillomas (GTFP) to reflect general marine environmental conditions within the TIHPA.

7.7 Temperature profiles of developing nests and Sex Determination
In order to mirror the natural conditions normally encountered by developing eggs, management strategies at artificial hatchery operations must take into consideration the nest temperatures throughout the development period (approx. 60 days). The sex of developing hatchlings is temperature dependent, thus the temperatures of nests will affect the ratio of males to females in any given nest. Comparisons of temperature profiles within natural and translocated nests will be made to determine the degree of approximation to natural environmental characteristics. A matrix of thermocouples connected to a distribution panel will be strategically placed in and around natural and translocated nests and temperatures will be monitored daily throughout the incubation period. The results of these experiments will enable the Park to accurately manage the hatchery by providing shade and sunlight in pre-determined proportions.

7.8 Bacterial counts at natural and hatchery sites
Although the staff at the hatcheries follow strict rotation programs with regard to hatchery usage, it is hypothesized that due to the decomposition of a small number of eggs per nest during incubation, repeated over and over with the continuous use of the hatchery site, the bacterial counts in the sand are significantly higher than those found under natural circumstances. These bacteria may have a debilitating effect on the developing hatchlings, and should be further investigated. Total bacterial counts and semi-qualitative analysis shall be used as the basis for comparisons. In light of recent findings at the hatcheries, whereby hatchlings’ umbilical opening is normally not sealed at the point of emergence, this may result in higher rates of infection.

7.9 General state of health and insect infestations of hatchlings
Through constant monitoring of in-situ and hatchery nests, it has been noted that several factors that may have potential detrimental effects on the hatchlings exist. One example of the above may be infestations of red ants on hatchlings emerging from their nests, prior to being collected and released by hatchery staff. This is an unfortunate natural phenomenon where the ants are attracted to the relatively easy prey. The hatchlings are not able to escape the thousands of ants when impounded in mash screens upon breaching the sand surface. In addition, factors such as timings on reaching the sea after hatching, and swimming and running speeds will be monitored as these represent amounts of energy consumption which could otherwise be used for swimming during the first three day "swimming frenzy".

7.10 Development of nest-marking techniques to avoid illegal poaching
Currently the turtles in many islands face pressure from illegal poachers who alight on the island for the sole purpose of removing the eggs from nests at times when rangers are otherwise occupied. Obviously under these circumstances the clear marking of the nests for monitoring would only serve as a beacon to would-be egg thieves. However, by utilising multiple discreet markers together with accurate positioning and magnetometry, nests may be marked in the wild with little chance of being found other than by tedious "spiking" activities. Rangers on the island will be trained to use and recognize the discreet markers to ensure accurate monitoring of natural nests.

7.11 Collection of morphometric and nesting data
In order to standardise morphometric and ecological data collections throughout the SE Asian region, rangers on all islands will be retrained and updated, where necessary, on the latest monitoring, measuring, tagging and weighing methodology. A regular "calibration" exercise will be carried out periodically to ensure Standardisation, consistency and accuracy of measurements. Measurements shall be taken in keeping with other programmes worldwide, in order to maximize data utility.

7.12 Development of a computerised database for storage and retrieval of nesting information  
A database will be developed into which existing data will be incorporated to allow the retrieval of data on nesting frequency and intervals, internesting periods, egg and hatchling production, and beach utilization. Multi-lingual access and query screens will be developed so that the input of data is consistent throughout the park. This data eventually will be available through the World Wide Web for international access. Initially however, it is expected that initially, basic data retrieval will be possible by simple modem connections.

7.13 Development of international cooperation and standardisation of research techniques
In view of the exemplary bilateral efforts adopted by both nations toward turtle conservation, the project aims to implement a standardised protocol for data collection, nest monitoring, and adult, egg and hatchling handling. The consistency of the above will result in more usable data with respect to long-term nesting strategies and beach utilization.

7.14 Turtle Biology and Ecology
General turtle biology, including necroscopies and tissue analysis, DNA sampling, nesting and reproduction processes shall be monitored. The data shall be used to refine management strategies and long-term goals of the Park.

7.15 Captive Breeding
Although captive breeding has been attempted by many groups with varying degrees of success, the project shall investigate the use of captive breeding as a form of head-starting hatchlings to improve survival rates.

7.16 Hatchling Dispersal
Experiments to investigate hatchling dispersal patterns and energy utilization budgets shall be conducted to determine probable migration routes. This information shall serve to determine whether commercial fishing operations may be culling hatchlings as they depart the islands on their long voyages.

8.0 ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES
8.1 Eco-Tourism.
The running of the Turtle Island Park in Sabah is funded primarily by eco-tourism income. Visitors to the islands are treated to watching nesting process, and get to witness firsthand the conservation efforts by the Park rangers. This tourism market has not spread to the Philippine islands, yet remains threatened by activities as the turtles themselves do not respect the international borders. The programme shall investigate methods of enhancing current range of activities and the orderly accommodation of the tourist industry.

8.2 Seaweed Farming
Experimental seaweed farming stations shall be established in conjunction with island villagers to determine their economic potential. This may result in one form of alternate employment for the islanders.

8.3 Documentaries
Wildlife documentaries have become expensive and sought-after in modern times. Foreign countries are willing to pay thousands of dollars for the opportunity to film natural phenomena, and sea turtles and their conservation are a fashionable subject. The documentaries also raise further opportunities by hiring local villagers as guides and boat drivers.

8.4 Coral Reef Fishing
To be developed as an alternate form of employment, coral reef fishing in a sustainable manner may offer significant revenue opportunities.

9.0 Expected Deliverables

9.1 Master Management Plan
With more than 30 years of experience in turtle handling, the Sabah Parks rangers and staff have a very healthy attitude toward the conservation of the species. The World Wildlife Fund (Philippines) and the Pawikan Conservation Program officers who work on the Philippine islands have made significant progress in turtle protection. Improvements on current handling and hatchery operations have already been met with enthusiasm and implemented accordingly, therefore any efforts which result in the well-being of the turtles are expected to be adopted without delay. Within the context of a comprehensive management plan, the following shall be produced:

• Development of a management plan for the TIHPA.
• Increased awareness of the marine turtle conservation efforts.
• Controlled or regulated access to the islands.
• Bilateral enforcement of regulations.

9.2 Computerised Database
The availability of the nesting data in computerised form is expected to enhance the management potential of the TIHPA staff with regard to long-term understanding of turtle movements and nesting activities. Efforts to computerise current and future data shall include:

• Development of a database into which present and future nesting, egg and hatchling data will be stored.
• Development of trilingual retrieval programs for the above.

9.3 Egg Management Programme 
The ability to control the egg survival and hatchling production with modern research results offers wide management options. The project shall implement the following:

• Reduction of current sale to conservation ratio for eggs on the Philippine islands.
• Comprehensive description of natural and hatchery nest-temperature profiles with a view to ensuring natural and artificial nest similarities.
• Preliminary description of bacterial presence in nesting sands, to determine the overall suitability of nesting areas.

9.4 Adult population modeling
The project shall collect updated and comprehensive information on re-nesting and inter-nesting intervals. Additionally, an in-depth description of current handling and monitoring techniques, along with recommendations for the updating and/or modification of such shall be produced.

9.5 Foraging Grounds
The programme shall investigate the distribution of foraging grounds within the Park boundaries and manage these appropriately. Management options shall include regulation of fishing practices and boating activities.

9.6 Capability Building

• Training of permanent staff at Sabah Parks and the Pawikan Conservation Group in turtle ecology and handling mechanisms.
• The adoption of updated egg, hatchling and adult handling techniques is expected to have its most important effect in the preservation of the wild populations utilising the Sabah and Philippine seas.

9.7 Educational Materials
Development of educational materials for distribution in the region.

9.8 Management

• Development of revised management protocols to enhance eco-tourism response.
• Development of alternate employment opportunities

Presented at the 16th Annual Sea Turtle Symposium, Hilton Head, South Carolina, USA, 27 Feb - 2 Mar, 1996.

• ¹Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation
  Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, East Malaysia

• ²Sabah Parks, P.O. Box 10626, 88806 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, East Malaysia

Thousands of marine turtles nest on the small, coral-fringed islands straddling the Malaysian/Philippine border off the coast of Sandakan, East Malaysia. Lying a 40 nm off the eastern coast of Sabah, this group of nine small islands hosts thousands of turtles annually. Current data from the Malaysian side indicates continuous nesting throughout the year with a peak during June to August. Although nesting is predominantly by Greens, Hawksbills also are found, and to a lesser extent Olive Ridleys.

Under the auspices of Sabah Parks Department, conservation of marine turtles in Sabah has been active since the late ‘60s. Sabah Parks has operated hatcheries at the three islands of the Turtle Island Park since 1966, and have released more than 6 million hatchlings to the surrounding waters since then. The number of nesting adults, which had declined drastically since the 1920’s, has slowly increased since the Park’s inception.

Due to the proximity of the neighboring Philippine islands, and the knowledge that many of the eggs one these islands were being sold legally in the Philippines and illegally in Malaysia, a joint marine park, encompassing both turtle rookeries, was proposed and will finally be gazetted in 1996. One of the primary goals in the establishment of the trans-boundry park is to support research into further conservation and management measures. Conservation measures are now being implemented on both sides of the border in an effort to curb the decline of the nesting populations worldwide and to collaborate on research into efficient management guidelines. Since that time, legislature in the Philippines that now limits the number of eggs collected from natural nests has contributed significantly to local conservation.

Recent DNA-study findings by Australian biologists confirmed that the turtles nesting on these islands were indeed of similar origin and it has been suggested that they represent an Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU). Current research by the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak is aimed at ensuring conservation measures by the Park Rangers in the hatcheries are in keeping with natural nesting activities and conditions, with particular regard to incubation temperatures. Where possible, methods to enhance hatchling survival are being implemented.

Presented at the 17h Annual Sea Turtle Symposium, Orlando,
Florida, USA, 2 -6 Mar, 1997.

Malaysia’s Turtle Islands Park: Nesting trends and their implications
for management

Nicolas Pilcher
Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation,
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia

Possibly less well-known than the Leatherback nesting beaches in Trengganu, a small Park in Sabah, off the coast of East Malaysia in Borneo supports a large population of Green turtles and a moderate number of Hawksbills. Nesting trends over the past decade indicate a slight increase in numbers although marking efforts and tag-loss rates are unknown rendering the trend questionable. What is fact is that more than one thousand different turtles are tagged each year, suggesting either an extremely large population base, or a large tag-loss rate. Although little evidence points to tag-loss, current practices such as the use of only one tag and positioning on the front flipper suggest this may be a significant factor.

The Malaysian nesting beaches are protected through research and monitoring efforts undertaken by Sabah Parks, who tag nesting females and collect basic morphometric data while transferring all eggs to a hatchery to avoid all forms of predation. These efforts have been underway since 1966, during which more than six million hatchlings have been released.

The turtles have now been awarded even further protection through the establishment of the world’s first trans-boundary marine park, in the establishment of the Turtle Islands Heritage Protected Area, straddling the Malaysian/Philippine border. On the 31st of May 1996, this protectorate came into effect with the signing of an agreement between the two countries’ Foreign Ministers. As such, the three islands that constituted Sabah’s Turtle Islands Park and six islands in Philippine waters are now protected, as are the waters and coral reefs that lie within the outer perimeter of the whole group of islands.

In the development of a comprehensive management scheme for the TIHPA, the fate of adult turtles will be investigated as deleterious effects such as trawling and human consumption are common in the region. A worrying trend that has recently come to light is the lack of large numbers of returns from previous years, suggesting dramatic rate of ‘removal’ from the nesting population.

Presented at the 18th Annual Sea Turtle Symposium, Mazatlan, Mexico, 2-6 Mar, 1998.

Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation
University Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia

Many conservation sites include hatcheries in which eggs are incubated and from which hatchlings are subsequently released. Unfortunately, what is known about the short- and especially long-term effects of hatchery activities on turtles is severely lacking and it is possible that well-intentioned practices have negative effects on survival.

The performance of the hatchlings after they enter the sea is poorly studied due to their speed and the logistics of tracking individuals that rapidly disperse. Most of these studies have been on hatchling orientation and the dynamics of near-shore movements and predation.

This study details the swimming performance of hatchlings over time through controlled laboratory experiments. In particular, it is concerned with the performance of hatchlings after prolonged captivity such as when they hatch and are prevented from reaching the sea by hatchery enclosures. Hatchlings were taken from a hatchery up to six hours after emergence at one-hour intervals. Swimming speed and style were monitored in a purpose-designed raceway system (affectionally dubbed "The Swimerator") that catered to the known swimming characteristics of the hatchlings, and were then correlated with flow-through water speeds.

In general it was found that swimming performance decreased with prolonged captivity, with swimming distances dropping by over 11% with six hours of detention. Average swim rates during the tests ranged from 0.463m/s to 0.751m/s (x=0.586m/s n=609) with distances covered ranging from 1980m/h to 2249m/h (x=2110m, +/- 112m ). In addition, swimming style was found to vary with prolonged captivity which, coupled with decreased swimming distances, could have considerable effects on overall hatchling dispersion patterns and survival rates.

It is suggested that management operations at hatcheries take into account the effects of prolonged captivity on hatchlings and modify their operations to better suit the hatchlings’ natural behaviour.