Dr Louisa Ponnampalam
Chair & Co-Founder, MareCet Research Organisation
Dr. Ponnampalam is the co-founder of The MareCet Research, Malaysia's pioneering non-profit NGO dedicated to the research and conservation of marine mammals. Pronounced ma-rei-set, a combination of the Latin word “mar” for sea and Cetacean, the scientific grouping of whales, dolphins and porpoises, the organisation is the Cetacean ecologist’s realisation of a childhood dream to protect the rich biodiversity beneath our waters. Ten years into its conception, MareCet has become a recognised leader in marine conservation. Over the past decade, it has established four research projects across Malaysia and engaged over 4,000 students through outreach and education. In 2019, MareCet's findings led to the recognition of three field research sites as Important Marine Mammal Areas by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Keynote Lecture 7 – Innovators Series – Innovative Journeys
What does it mean to live out a childhood dream? What does it take to turn that dream into a reality and keep it alive? The MareCet Research Organization, a grassroots NGO founded in Malaysia in 2012, has its roots in the childhood aspirations of its co-founders, Dr. Louisa Ponnampalam and Fairul Izmal Jamal Hisne. Despite facing doubts and discouragement from various quarters about MareCet’s ability to fulfill its mission, this is the tale of how two young co-founders, initially trained as scientists, ventured into the unknown armed with just a few dollars in their pockets. Their motivation? A lifelong passion for marine mammals and a burning desire to advance the science and conservation of these captivating creatures within their home country.
A decade later, MareCet stands as a thriving and fully-fledged conservation NGO, leading the charge in marine mammal science and conservation in Malaysia. It boasts an extensive network of supporters and collaborators, both nationally and internationally. In this presentation, Dr. Ponnampalam will delve into the trials and challenges that accompanied MareCet’s growth into the marine conservation powerhouse it has become today.
