Despite the beauty of the whale shark, the largest fish in the sea is still struggling for survival due to unregulated fishing. Concerned with the species' plight, Kresna Agung Negara, a postgraduate student from the Bandung Institute of Technology, has taken part in an environmental campaign in Cenderawasih Bay in Papua.
During his visit to the whale shark paradise as part of the Live Out Ur Dream (LOUD) program, Kresna has fulfilled his dream of diving with the animal as well as educate other tourists to not touch the gentle fish and share information with local fishermen about protecting the whale shark and its ecosystem.
"We want people to be more aware of preserving the environment," said Kresna in a press release. "Diving is a leisure activity, but we still need to care for the environment so our children and grandchildren will still be able to enjoy the scenery that we currently have."
Prior to his visit, Kresna had prepared himself, including joining diving lessons during the holy month of Ramadhan.
Initiated by household and personal care company Godrej Indonesia, LOUD aims to help Indonesian youths fulfill their ultimate dreams. More than 200 students from 20 universities in the country have participated in the LOUD competition in which finalists are required to present their dream in front of judges.