The Marine Ecology Research Centre (MERC) at Gayana Eco Resort in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, was recently honored with The Most Innovative Tourist Attraction Award 2008/2009 by the Malaysia Ministry of Tourism, further positioning the resort as the ideal destination for nature and the environment.

Through fully guided tours, visitors to MERC are educated on the marine ecosystem that surrounds the resort. Furthermore, by planting coral fragments and working alongside the center’s marine biologists, visitors can fully participate in helping the center achieve its objectives, which include the restoration of coral reefs and strengthening the Malaysian giant clam population.

To date, MERC has successfully reproduced all seven species of giant clams found in Malaysia. Some of these have already reached more than one inch in length and will be relocated from the settlement tanks back into the sea.

"Two years ago, MERC started a journey to return to the environment what humans have exploited in the past," said MERC Project Director Alvin Wong. "The global concern for climate change and the deteriorating marine resources prompted MERC to take a step beyond just co-existing with the environment or practicing sustainable development." "In our own little way, MERC has taken the effort to return to our marine ecosystem what we had lost or are in the danger of losing permanently. The journey is a long one and filled with challenges, and we are constantly overcoming these through innovative ideas and creative approaches."

Surrounded by the South China Sea on one side and the lush tropical rainforest on the other, Gayana Eco Resort is an enchanting natural utopia just 20 minutes from the bustling city of Kota Kinabalu. Its 44 modern, thatched-roof villas jut out into the sea to enhance the soothing sounds of the surf below. From its sustainable seafood restaurant Alu Alu, to snorkeling and scuba diving expeditions, Gayana Eco Resort is truly a partner with its environment.

For more information about Gayana Eco Resort, visit www.PreferredBoutique.com.