Similan Islands to undergo ‘spring cleaning’ before re-opening

PHUKET: National Park officers, private business operators and locals are set to join forces for a two day beach and reef cleanup at the Similan Islands before the national park re-opens for the tourism high season on November 1.

“We want people to realize the importance of preserving the marine ecosystem and feel that it is truly their responsibility to protect the national park,” Mu Koh Similan National Park Chief Mana Phermpool told the Phuket Gazette.

Letters were sent out to local people and businesses to encourage everyone to join the beach cleanup at Huyong Island and the underwater debris in the park area, he explained.

Registration for the event closed on October 22, he added.

“The people who use the park are the people who should help preserve its natural beauty. They are the ones who will benefit from the island, so they must protect it,” Chief Mana said.

Two large dive operators in Khao Lak – Sea Bees and Khao Lak Scuba Adventures – have confirmed to the Gazette that they plan to take dive boats out to take part in the event.

“The project will restore the beauty of the island’s nature,” Mr Mana added.

— Chutharat Plerin