Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park

Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef Overview

Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park, known locally as Taman Negara Terumbu Karang Miri-Sibuti, is a sprawling underwater paradise located off the coast of Miri in Sarawak, Malaysia. Encompassing an area of approximately 310 square miles (800 square kilometers), it is the largest offshore marine park in Malaysia.

The park lies within the biodiverse waters of the South China Sea, offering an extraordinary array of underwater landscapes, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and sandy plains. The reefs are characterized by vibrant coral gardens, dramatic drop-offs, and underwater pinnacles that make the area a haven for marine enthusiasts and researchers alike.

The terrain of Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park is almost entirely aquatic, dominated by a network of coral reefs that support a kaleidoscope of marine life. The coral formations include soft and hard corals, with species like staghorn coral and brain coral being particularly abundant.

The park’s waters are exceptionally clear, offering visibility of up to 30 meters (98 feet), making it a premier location for diving. Among the notable underwater features are the Seahorse Reef, characterized by its abundance of small marine creatures, and the Anemone Garden, known for its vibrant array of sea anemones and clownfish. These features form an essential part of the park’s ecosystem, supporting both marine life and coastal biodiversity.

Miri-Sibuti is a sanctuary for diverse marine species, including larger pelagic fish, reef dwellers, and a variety of invertebrates. Iconic marine creatures include the hawksbill and green sea turtles, which use the park’s beaches as nesting grounds. Divers often encounter schools of barracuda, jacks, and trevally, as well as reef sharks and rays gliding along the ocean floor.

Smaller, colorful species such as nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and clownfish contribute to the vibrant underwater scenes. Birdlife in the coastal areas includes species like the white-bellied sea eagle and the Pacific reef heron, which can often be seen soaring above or perched along the shoreline.

The park is a hotspot for recreational diving and snorkeling, with over 40 dive sites catering to various skill levels. Popular spots include the Siwa Reef and Hawa Reef, known for their diverse coral formations and marine life. Visitors can also explore shipwrecks like the Atago Maru, a Japanese shipwreck from World War II, which has become an artificial reef teeming with marine life. Beyond water-based activities, nearby coastal areas offer opportunities for beachcombing and birdwatching.

Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park faces challenges, including coral bleaching, illegal fishing, and the impact of tourism. However, conservation efforts led by local authorities and NGOs, including reef monitoring and sustainable tourism initiatives, have yielded positive results. Efforts to engage local communities in protecting the reefs have fostered a sense of shared responsibility, helping to safeguard the park’s ecological integrity for future generations.

Park Map

Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park Highlights

Wildlife

The Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park in Malaysia is renowned for its vibrant marine biodiversity and stunning underwater landscapes. This park is a diver’s paradise, featuring an extensive network of coral reefs and an array of fascinating marine species. Below are some of the popular marine species found in the park:

Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
These gentle giants are a common sight in the park, often seen grazing on seagrass beds or swimming gracefully near coral reefs. They play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Known for their beautifully patterned shells, hawksbill turtles are crucial for coral health as they feed on sponges that compete with corals for space.

Bumphead Parrotfish (Bolbometopon muricatum)
The largest species of parrotfish, these charismatic creatures are known for their distinctive “bump” on their heads and their role in maintaining reef health by grazing on algae.

Giant Clam (Tridacna gigas)
One of the largest bivalves in the world, giant clams are an integral part of the reef system, providing habitat and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Napoleon Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus)
This massive and brightly colored fish is a favorite among divers. Known for their curious nature, they are an important predator in the reef ecosystem.

Reef Sharks (Various species)
Blacktip and whitetip reef sharks are commonly spotted cruising along the reefs. They are top predators and help maintain balance in the marine food web.

Manta Ray (Mobula alfredi)
These majestic rays are often seen gliding effortlessly through the water. Their elegant movements and large size make them a breathtaking sight.

Nudibranchs (Various species)
These small, colorful sea slugs are a favorite among macro photographers. Their intricate patterns and bright colors add to the reef’s charm.

Cuttlefish (Sepia spp.)
Masters of camouflage, cuttlefish are fascinating cephalopods known for their ability to change color and texture to blend into their surroundings.

Lionfish (Pterois spp.)
With their striking spines and vibrant coloration, lionfish are both beautiful and venomous. They are commonly seen hiding among coral structures.

Birds

The Miri-Sibuti Coral Reef National Park is also home to an incredible variety of bird species that inhabit the coastal and nearby terrestrial areas. These birds add to the park’s ecological richness and appeal to birdwatchers.

White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster)
This majestic bird of prey is often seen soaring above the park’s waters, hunting for fish and small marine animals.

Pacific Reef Heron (Egretta sacra)
Commonly found along the coast, this heron is known for its adaptability, appearing in both dark and white morphs.

Great Frigatebird (Fregata minor)
With its forked tail and long wings, the great frigatebird is a striking species often seen hovering near fishing boats.

Lesser Crested Tern (Thalasseus bengalensis)
This tern is a frequent visitor to the park’s shores, identifiable by its orange bill and elegant flight.

Black-naped Tern (Sterna sumatrana)
A sleek and graceful bird, the black-naped tern nests on small islands within the park and feeds on small fish.

Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
Standing tall along the coastal areas, this heron is known for its patience while hunting in shallow waters.

Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus)
A striking bird of prey with chestnut plumage and a white head, often seen gliding along the park’s coastlines.

Collared Kingfisher (Todiramphus chloris)
This brightly colored kingfisher is a common sight near mangroves and coastal areas, hunting for fish and small crabs.

Oriental Pied Hornbill (Anthracoceros albirostris)
A unique species with a large bill and casque, often found in nearby forested areas of the park.

Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)
A more elusive heron, the purple heron blends into the vegetation near water bodies and is known for its beautiful plumage.