The Center for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has been at the forefront of efforts to promote sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism. Through its extensive educational programs and outreach initiatives, CEMACS is playing a key role in raising awareness about critical issues such as overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and destructive fishing practices. 

Established as a premier research center for marine and coastal studies, CEMACS serves as a natural laboratory dedicated to understanding and preserving Malaysia’s rich marine biodiversity. Located in Pulau Pinang, the center is committed to both scientific research and public education, combining academic expertise with community-focused outreach. CEMACS' mission is not only to contribute to marine science but also to promote sustainable practices within local and national communities. 

Educational Programs and Outreach Initiatives 

CEMACS' educational programs focus on fostering a deep understanding of marine ecosystems and the socio-economic importance of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. These programs target a wide audience, ranging from school students and local fishers to policymakers and tourism operators. By doing so, the center ensures that awareness and knowledge reach various levels of society. 

1. Training for Local Fishers

One of the core outreach activities of CEMACS is providing free workshops and training for local fishing communities and local farmers to connect and transfer knowledge. These workshops emphasize sustainable fishing methods, proper resource management, and the dangers of overfishing and IUU fishing. Fishers and farmers are educated on the long-term benefits of adhering to sustainable practices, such as maintaining healthy fish populations, improving biodiversity, and enhancing their livelihoods by ensuring the viability of future fish stocks.  

2. Free Aquaculture Training Programs 

CEMACS also conducts aquaculture training programs, which focus on the development of sustainable fish farming methods and allow local farmers to connect and transfer knowledge. These programs are vital for promoting alternatives to traditional fishing practices, which often lead to over-exploitation of marine resources. The success of CEMACS' aquaculture programs is evident in projects like their oyster farming initiative, which has been a model for economic development and sustainability. Fishers and farmers are trained in best practices for aquaculture, including maintaining water quality and ensuring species diversity, which enhances both the economic and environmental sustainability of their operations.

3. Public Awareness Campaigns and Youth Engagement 

Raising public awareness about overfishing and marine conservation is a crucial part of CEMACS’ mission. The center actively engages with schools and youth groups through free programs like Coastal CurioSEAty, which immerse students in marine science and environmental stewardship. These programs are designed to instill a sense of responsibility in younger generations, highlighting the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. Youth participants are given free hands-on learning experiences, such as field trips and lab sessions, where they can observe the effects of destructive fishing practices like trawling, the dangers of marine pollution, and the importance of maintaining healthy coral reefs and seagrass beds for sustainable tourism and fisheries. Such programs ensure that the next generation is informed about and invested in protecting marine resources for the future​.