Bangkok: Sasin, former chairman of the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation, emphasized the need to consider conservation efforts in criticisms aimed at the Similan resort. He reflected on past management strategies at the Similan Islands National Park, particularly the decision to cancel overnight stays in favor of one-day trips, a change driven by academic research to tackle overtourism and allow the ecosystem to recover.
According to Thai News Agency, Sasin Chalermlap highlighted the different management contexts between the Similan Islands and the Surin Islands. While the Surin Islands continue to permit overnight stays, the Similan Islands have struggled with overcrowding, leading to issues such as pollution, increased rat populations from discarded food, and damage to the marine ecosystem. These challenges prompted a reevaluation of the Similan Islands' management, including concerns about coral reef degradation and the opening of Koh Tachai to tourists.
In 2016, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation established a technical committee, including marine scientists and conservation experts, to devise solutions. Among the measures introduced were prohibitions on overnight stays, closures for ecosystem restoration, and tourist limits based on area capacity studies. These actions have shown positive results, with the Similan Islands' ecosystem demonstrating recovery.
Sasin also addressed past efforts to allow private sector concessions for accommodations within national parks, which faced opposition from conservationists worried about resource exploitation. He stressed the need to consider the environmental impact and spatial limitations when planning accommodations in marine national parks.
Concerns about infrastructure limitations, such as electricity, water, and internet access on remote islands, were also raised. These constraints, inherent to the islands' terrain, do not align with typical hotel standards, necessitating a balance between accommodation development and conservation objectives.
The report further noted the importance of investigating permits and compliance if any overnight stays were claimed in the Similan Islands National Park approximately four years ago, ensuring adherence to the regulations set by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.