KOTA KINABALU: Many may not know that the horseshoe crab is considered a living fossil and that its blue blood – literally! – can help in the detection of poison or bacteria in food.

       Or, have you ever wondered why environmentalists advise against consuming giant clams and several other types of large shell creatures?

       These questions and facts related to the marine ecosystem will be answered at a month-long exhibition and awareness programme in conjunction with World Ocean Month at the Tanjung Aru Marine Ecosystem Centre (TAME).

       Organising chairman Japson Wong said the programme – ending June 26 and featuring workshops and hands-on activities on upcycling and creating artwork, among others – is a collaboration with the Sabah Creative Economy and Innovation Centre (Scenic).

       They have also partnered with 20 other non-governmental organisations and government agencies for this programme which is open to the public from 2pm to 6pm every weekend.

       “We hope to inspire the next generation to be more aware and caring towards our marine ecosystem,” said the marine biologist.

       Wong said there would be facilitators to explain the various issues and provide marine-related fun facts.

       “For example, we see traders selling dried giant clams and other seashells that are the sea’s natural filters. Certain types of seashells eat a type of starfish called the crown of thorns,” he said.

       He added that the crown of thorns was considered a pest because it feeds on coral, thus creating an imbalance in the marine ecosystem if the shell creatures that consume them were harvested.

       “And I am sure not many of us know that there are turtles just within the Tanjung Aru coastal area,” he said.

       He said visitors who come for the exhibition and participate in the activities would learn how to make decorative ornaments or usable items like cups and tables from trash.

       Scenic general manager Viviantie Sarjuni said it was an honour for the centre to collaborate with TAME by providing funds and publicity for artists and environmental enthusiasts.

       “This is the type of partnership between the government and grassroots innovators that we hope will inspire more community leaders to come forward and propose initiatives that benefit people, while also promoting creativity and innovation,” she said.

       She added that Scenic also wanted to promote Social Entrepreneurship (SE) as part of the Innovation-Driven Entrepreneurship pillar in Sabah.

       “SE is concerned with protecting the environment as well, and we hope through SE businesses, we can strive to protect the environment via awareness and education programmes, among others,” she said.