This initiative forms part of a broader strategy and ongoing efforts to promote sustainable economic and tourism development in parallel with environmental protection.
On the morning of August 28, in Hanoi, KDI Holdings Vietnam and Ri–Yaz Group Malaysia held a signing ceremony for a cooperation agreement on the management and operation of several resort–hotel complexes. A highlight of the ceremony was the successful sponsorship secured by KDI Holdings for a coral regeneration project in Nha Trang Bay, carried out in partnership with the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography.
Under the agreement, the Malaysian partner will provide USD 100,000 in funding to kickstart coral restoration activities in Nha Trang Bay. The designated research and restoration zone is located at Bai Tien — home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the bay. Although known for its pristine waters, long stretches of white sand, and unique natural terrain, the coral ecosystem in recent years has experienced significant decline.
This project is a key component of the investor’s commitment to fostering sustainable economic and tourism growth that goes hand in hand with environmental conservation. KDI Holdings will collaborate closely with the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography — Vietnam’s leading institution for applied research in biodiversity conservation, marine aquaculture technology, marine flora and fauna resources, ocean physics, meteorology–hydrology, and coastal dynamics.
In September 2019, KDI Holdings and experts from the Institute of Oceanography will establish a coral nursery in the area, cultivating nearly 600 coral colonies across multiple species. Once strong and well-adapted coral seedlings are developed, the restoration and expansion process will continue on a larger scale.
Dr. Hoang Xuan Ben, Deputy Director of the Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography, noted that Bai Tien has already undergone site surveys and ecological assessments and is considered suitable for coral restoration trials.
“Coral restoration is extremely costly and requires long-term effort — it cannot be achieved overnight, especially since Bai Tien has suffered degradation and damage. The availability of sponsorship is a very positive development, providing the necessary conditions for coral recovery. We will soon begin working with the company to commence the trials,” Dr. Ben stated.
In Vietnam, coral restoration initiatives have increasingly been prioritized, with several projects implemented across various localities. At Bai Tien, the initial assessment phase has been completed with promising early results.
