The government announced positive news of Thailand’s marine recovery, reporting a record high of 451 blacktip reef sharks in Maya Bay. Minister Suchart pointed to this as proof of successful conservation and tourism management, reaffirming commitment to sustainable marine ecosystem care and management.
On 13 Nov 2026, Ms. Lalida Pertwiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, stated that the government prioritizes restoring and conserving marine natural resources alongside promoting sustainable tourism. Minister Suchart Chomklin of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment received a report from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation on their November 2026 survey of blacktip reef sharks in Maya Bay, within Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, Krabi Province. The survey found a record 451 sharks, the highest since the project began in 2023, signaling positive signs of marine ecosystem recovery and ongoing effective protected area management.
Ms. Lalida explained that Minister Suchart emphasized the increase in blacktip reef sharks as a key indicator of the benefits from conservation measures, including area closures for ecosystem restoration and tourism regulation. These efforts reduce disturbances to marine habitats. He also urged tourists and the public to travel responsibly, avoid disturbing marine animals, and refrain from activities that harm the ecosystem to ensure Maya Bay remains a safe habitat for marine life sustainably.
In the latest survey, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, through its Marine National Park Research Center 3 (Trang), collaborated with cooperative education students from Prince of Songkla University. They collected data from 3–9 November 2026 using three scientific methods: 15 drone flights for aerial surveys, 22 underwater video camera sessions with bait (BRUVS) to study shark behavior, and 22 seawater quality measurements.
Survey results showed the highest numbers of blacktip reef sharks in the early morning, averaging 328.83 individuals, with a peak of 451 on the morning of 3 November 2026. Sharks ranging from sub-adult to fully grown adults over one meter long were observed swimming near the shore and cliffs, possibly related to breeding behavior. Additionally, about 3–5 newborn to juvenile sharks under one meter were found in shallow waters, indicating Maya Bay remains a vital area both for shark habitation and as a nursery.
Seawater quality measurements recorded an average temperature of 30.87 degrees Celsius, salinity of 31.16 ppt, and pH of 8.62, all within standards suitable for marine life, confirming the ecosystem’s health in the area.
The Deputy Spokesperson added that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has instructed the Department of National Parks to continue research and monitoring of blacktip reef shark populations. The academic data gathered will guide management measures for marine national parks to balance biodiversity conservation with eco-tourism.
“The government is committed to balancing natural resource and environmental conservation with tourism. The record finding of 451 blacktip reef sharks in Maya Bay is encouraging news that highlights the importance of ongoing natural restoration. We call on citizens and tourists alike to help preserve the integrity of Thailand’s seas so these valuable marine resources endure for future generations,” said Ms. Lalida.