SANDAKAN: Aquaculture lecturer at Politeknik Sandakan, Dr. Joanna W. Doinsing, has been awarded the prestigious Sabah Best Biodiversity Research Award 2026 (Anugerah Penyelidikan Biodiversiti Terbaik Sabah 2026) under the Best Local Researcher category, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to biodiversity and marine sustainability research.
The award, which carries a cash prize of RM10,000, was presented on June 30 by Sabah Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, in Kota Kinabalu during the state-level World Biodiversity Day celebration. The event was jointly organised by the Sabah State Government and the Sabah Biodiversity Centre (SaBC).
Dr. Joanna received the honour for her research project, “Sustainability of Oysters (Magallana bilineata) Farming in Coastal Waters of Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia,” which provides valuable scientific insights into sustainable oyster farming, marine ecosystem health, and aquaculture practices in Sabah.
Her research offers important baseline data that is expected to support evidence-based coastal resource management, strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Sabah’s marine ecosystems.
A representative from the Sabah Biodiversity Centre praised Dr. Joanna’s achievement, describing her as an example of Sabah’s growing pool of talented local researchers.
“Dr. Joanna’s remarkable dedication to marine research exemplifies the exceptional scientific talent we have in Sabah. Her work on the sustainability of the Magallana bilineata oyster species in Tuaran provides valuable data that will help safeguard our coastal resources while supporting the livelihoods of local communities for generations to come,” the representative said.
The Anugerah Penyelidikan Biodiversiti Terbaik Sabah is an annual initiative by the Sabah State Government to recognise and encourage high-impact biodiversity research conducted by local scientists. The award aims to promote innovative research that contributes to the conservation, sustainable management, and protection of Sabah’s globally renowned natural heritage. – James Leong
Dr. Joanna W. Doinsing after the award presentation ceremony on June 30.
