SEMPORNA: In a bid to introduce Bum Bum Island as one of the best macro dive sites in the country, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is organising an underwater photography competition.
Dubbed as the 2019 Sabah Underwater Photography Festival (Macro edition), the competition will be held between Sept 19 and 22.
State ministry director Ag Ahmad Zaki Abu Bakar said the programme is jointly organised by the ministry with collaboration with Empire Scuba Supplies Sdn Bhd.
“The objective of the competition is to introduce Bum Bum island as the first dedicated macro dive site in Malaysia and also to diversify diving activities.
“Besides that, it is also a preparation (for Sabah) to usher the 2020 Visit Malaysia Year,” he said, adding that they expect about 30 local and foreign participants.
He added that there is no entry fee and that all expenses, including land and sea transportation, food and accommodation here will be borne by the organisers.
Ag Ahmad said that the competition will also include a specially invited judge from abroad to choose the best winners.
The first prize winner will take home a SeaLife Macro 2.0 64GB with Sea Dragon 2500 while the second prize winner is set to take home an Atmos Mission One Dive Computer.
The third prize is a Weefine Smart Snoot Focus WF069 and there will be 10 consolation prizes and one lucky draw.
He reminded participants to avoid destroying the reef throughout the contest and to be responsible for their behaviour underwater.
“Any damage including provocation of marine life by touching or feeding is prohibited and will lead to disqualification.”
The contest entry form can be obtained by e-mailing ahmadzaki@motac.gov.my and is to be submitted by Sept 9.
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