About the Journal

Focus and Scope

The Journal is a peer-reviewed publication dedicated to bridging the gap between ecological conservation and modern innovation through the advancement of marine science, sustainable aquaculture, and technological integration. Aimed at the global scientific community, the Journal serves as a comprehensive platform for research centered on the seas of Borneo and the Coral Triangle, extending its scope across the Southeast Asian seas and the Western Pacific Ocean. By fostering a deeper understanding of these distinctive regions, BJoMSA provides a vital space for discussing diverse topics in marine research, fisheries and the implementation of AI-driven innovations.

The scope of the Journal encompasses the following thematic areas:

• Marine Conservation & Ecology

  • Biodiversity, ecosystem services, and climate change mitigation.

  • Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and community-led conservation.

• Sustainable Aquaculture & Fisheries

  • Tropical aquaculture breeding, nutrition, and health management.

  • Fisheries stock assessment and Blue Economy resource optimization.

• Innovation & AI Technology

  • AI & Data: Machine learning for species ID, modeling, and analytics.

  • Smart Systems: IoT monitoring, automated feeding, and precision farming.

  • Robotics: UAV/AUV mapping and satellite-based remote sensing.

  • Biotech: Marine-derived products and sustainable biotechnological tools.

Publication Frequency

One issue will be published annually.

Publication Date: January [Note: Prior to 2026, the journal was published annually in December.]

All accepted manuscripts will be Prepublished, meaning the peer-reviewed version will be made available before typesetting and formal inclusion in a journal issue.

Open Access Policy

Borneo Journal of Marine Science and Aquaculture (BJoMSA) is an open access international peer reviewed journal that publishes original research contributions to marine science, fisheries and aquaculture. This journal provides immediate open access to its content on the principle that making research freely available to the public supports a greater global exchange of knowledge.

INDEXING LIST

• MySITASI - Malaysia Citation Centre
• Google Scholar
• Biefield Academic Search Engine (BASE)
• Directory of Research Journals Indexing (DRJI)
• World Cat
• Scientific Indexing Journal
• Index Copernicus
• I -Journals
• I -Focus
• ProQuest Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA)

AUDIENCE

BJoMSA is of particular interest to scholars, scientists and other professionals in the areas of marine science, fisheries, aquaculture, marine biotechnology, social science, blue economy and seafood security. However, the coverage of papers is of unrestricted interest for readers seeking knowledge for scientific developments of the subjects highlighted above and their relevance to communities that depend directly or indirectly on the aquatic resources.

MANUSCRIPT PROCESSING

Authors need to register and sign in then submit manuscripts of their papers in the Journal System 

Announcement will be made should there be any change in the online manuscript submission and processing system. Editorial Office will transmit each manuscript to two referees for peer review. Authors will be informed of the comments of the anonymous referees and final decision regarding suitability of their papers for publication in BJoMSA.

Review Process & Criteria

• Peer Review: Editorial Board evaluation and at least one independent referee.

• Evaluation Criteria: Scope alignment, technical merit, analytical cogency, and conceptual breadth.

• Integrity Standard: Board member submissions undergo the same independent review protocols.

Journal History

The origins of the Institute of Marine Borneo (IMB) date back to 1995, when Universiti Malaysia Sabah initiated research in marine science and aquaculture by establishing a specialized research unit. This strategic move reflected the University’s commitment to addressing the needs of Sabah and Malaysia, recognizing the growing global importance of marine ecosystems.

Following the recruitment of a critical mass of experts, the development of robust infrastructure, and a successful performance audit, the University upgraded the unit in 2000 to a fully-fledged Centre of Excellence, naming it the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI). Under this mandate, the Institute made progressive strides in research and development, guided by its core theme: Conservation and Sustainable Development of Marine Resources.

In January 2026, the Institute was officially rebranded as the Institute of Marine Borneo (IMB). Today, IMB houses two dedicated research centers and two living labs, reflecting its expanded capacity and mission. The selection of its research theme continues to be driven by the need for innovative preservation of marine ecosystems and advanced research in sustainable aquaculture.

Over the decades, IMB has significantly contributed to human resource development and provided expert consultancy to numerous agencies. Beyond generating new knowledge and technology, the Institute remains dedicated to implementing programs of direct relevance to society and the environment.

Borneo Journal of Marine Science and Aquaculture (BJoMSA) publishes original research contributions to marine science, fisheries and aquaculture.