Ranong Communities Rally to Protect Natural Resources and Coastal Ways
Ranong communities mobilized 80 residents across eight subdistricts to protect coastal and marine resources from development projects, holding a conservation event at Ao Khai Beach that included nature workshops and a declaration to safegua
Communities from eight subdistricts in Mueang and Kapoe districts of Ranong province organized a protection campaign, monitoring the area from mountains to sea on August 1, 2569. Around 80 residents participated in the "Protecting Quan Had Le: United Ranong-Chumphon Safeguarding Natural Resources and Community Ways" activity at Ao Khai Beach in Kapoe district. Participants came from multiple villages across both districts.
The event was a continuation of a previous campaign held in Ranong on July 18, 2569, opposing a land bridge project and Special Economic Zone (SEC) development. Activities included nature art workshops, tributes to Sunday the dolphin that died in the area, messages of love for the sea, garbage collection, sports, singing, and a declaration of intent to protect marine and coastal resources.
Phachainyasak Chiakajon of the Phu Sai Le conservation group stated that Kapoe district possesses abundant natural resources from watershed to sea, with Ao Khai serving as a crucial seafood source. He emphasized the group's ongoing conservation work protecting coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Tatharmon Sangsee, a local resident, expressed concern that coastal development projects like the land bridge could harm fishing communities and nursery grounds. She called on communities to collectively preserve forests, mountains, and seas for future generations.
Jakrapong Chusri of the creative community group noted that protecting resources is critical, warning that state projects could cause irreversible environmental damage. He urged the government to recognize the importance of young people who will inherit these resources.
Thanavirut Ploirum, a youth from Bang Hin subdistrict, stressed that marine conservation affects food security, tourism, and future generations. He called for building awareness to use resources sustainably, leaving them preserved for those who come after.
Fa-ai Klae-seuk, a youth representative from stateless communities on Sin Hai Island, added her voice to the conservation effort, connecting environmental protection to her community's connection with the sea.
