THE role of mangroves as the first line of defence against erosions, storm surges and rising sea level has long been known, but it was the Asian tsunami in late 2004 that gave countries more than a nudge in the right direction.

Though Malaysia wasn't exceptionally hurt from the fury of the giant waves, the warning was well heeded.

The Natural Resources and Environment Ministry set up an aptly named group -- the National Task Force Committee on Planting of Mangroves and Other Suitable Species on the Shorelines of Malaysia -- a month after the catastrophe.

Hotspots were identified, vulnerable coasts earmarked for reforestation, and the buffers needed to stave off a similar disaster noted.

FRIM, in chairing the research and development committee under the task force, is responsible for finding the best rehabilitation method.