My research interest is in comparing the hard coral biodiversity gradient between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia along onshore-offshore gradients representing various reef zones by focusing on coral families Agariciidae and,Euphylliidae. Species of these families are taxonomically well known and are easily identified in the field. Reliable data can be obtained on the presence or absence these species per reef area surveyed. This information will show the changes in species composition of assemblages between different sites within each area and,can be useful to design MPA boundaries and decide on Priority Conservation Areas (PCAs) as it reflects the environmental variability (e.g. distance from shore, depth, exposure) that are operating in the area. I am also keen to examine the genetic population structure of three reef invertebrate species,,Tridacna crocea,(boring giant clam),,Heliofungia actiniformis,(mushroom coral), and,Linckia laevigata,(blue sea star) in order to get an insight on the dispersal patterns of these species among reefs in Malaysia.,Genetic patterns of isolation by distance have the potential to infer larval dispersal distance and can help set the appropriate geographic scales on which MPA systems will function well. As most coral reef organisms have a pelagic larval dispersal phase, the utility of genetic similarity for recognizing regional patterns of genetic connectivity between marine populations appears to be useful.,Studies have conclusively shown that Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) can enhance the biomass and diversity of over-exploited communities. However, MPAs can only be successful if they are placed strategically, that is, at areas with optimal larval recruitment and also areas that are deemed as the main sources of coral larvae.