Bangkok: "Yotchanan" leads a team from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) to Songkhla, showcasing innovative "blue crab bank" and "coral dome" technologies for restoring Thai seas to international standards and driving community economic development. Professor Dr. Yotsanun Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), visited the Phang Sai Aquatic Animal Hatchery Center in Tambon Krathangnga, Sathing Phra District, Songkhla Province, to follow up on official inspections and provide policy support for research and innovation to enhance community potential and conserve the environment. He was accompanied by Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of MHESI, and other executives. The purpose of this visit, during the Cabinet's mobile meeting, was to listen directly to the people's problems in order to inform policy development and sustainably improve the quality of life for people in southern Tha iland.
According to Thai News Agency, Professor Dr. Yotsanun explained the origins and key inspiration behind his push for a national marine resource conservation agenda, stating that it stemmed from embracing the royal initiatives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya. He said, "I was inspired by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari after visiting her exhibition at Siam Paragon. She is concerned about marine conservation and has been involved in various waste collection efforts. We need to figure out how to get the world to help conserve our southern seas, both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, by bringing talented people from around the world to contribute technology, transforming the South into a 'Living Lab' where everyone can help."
To further this vision, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) is preparing to announce a policy on transforming biodiversity into value under the concepts of "Nature Positive" and "Nature Financing" at the STS Forum global conference this October. The goal is to attract international organizations such as the UN and UNICEF to join in driving this agenda, thereby positioning Thailand as a global leader in marine conservation.
To drive local economic growth, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) has strengthened the blue crab bank project by incorporating advanced technology such as a digital twin system. This system is used to collect and analyze data on water conditions, weather, contaminants, and E. coli to plan blue crab releases for maximum efficiency and survival rates. Simultaneously, the ministry aims to create innovative extensions around the blue crab bank centers by connecting them with Science Parks and startups to enhance processing, add value to products, and attract international investment back to the area.
At the same time, development will not be limited to marine resources but will also be linked to adding value to natural resources on land, such as oil palm, rubber, bamboo, medicinal plants, and renewable energy, as well as promoting the Andaman Wellness Corridor, with Thaksin University playing a leading role in its implementation.
Furthermore, preparations are underway to enhance public health infrastructure, stating, "We are discussing the possibility of adding a second Hat Yai Hospital to ensure everyone has access to the best possible healthcare."
In terms of research progress, the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) reported tangible successes that have created transformative changes in ecosystems and communities. These include the "Coral Dome" project, which serves as an underwater wave barrier and fish habitat, supporting 64 species of marine life and restoring 2.99 rai of beach. Currently, 797 new domes are being deployed in Singhanakhon District. Another project is "Returning Blue Crabs to Thai Seas," which has been expanded to 565 locations in 20 coastal provinces, increasing the blue crab population by an average of 67%.
At the end of the event, Professor Dr. Yoschanan presided over the awarding of certificates to 24 outstanding research projects and presented the 'Local Growth Engine' symbol to 28 network blue crab banks. He also expressed gratitude for the seamless collaboration from all sectors, including the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), the Department of Fisheries, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Ministry of Interior, local university networks, as well as civil servants and political figures, who worked together diligently towards the ultimate goal of creating economic security and sustainable quality of life for future generations in Southern Thailand.