The Andaman Sea, with its tropical islands, is an exquisite masterpiece of nature’s beauty.
However, this paradise faces a grave threat due to the detrimental effects of climate change and over-tourism. The coral reefs in the region have already borne the brunt of these challenges, and their future hangs in the balance if immediate action is not taken.
A Partnership for Preservation
In response to these environmental challenges, Mu Ko Lanta National Park has embarked on a crucial long-term initiative to monitor and safeguard the health of its coral reefs. Leading this noble cause is Anuar Abdullah, a renowned coral scientist and the visionary founder of Ocean Quest Global.
The project is further bolstered by the generous support of Pimalai Resort & Spa, a five-star sanctuary of natural beauty, and Lanta Diver, a PADI-certified scuba diving centre.
Anuar Abdullah’s partnership with Pimalai dates back to 2016 when the collaboration began with the establishment of coral nurseries and training sessions for local dive centres on Koh Lanta. His mission is simple yet profound: to protect coral reefs, anticipate potential threats, and, if necessary, rehabilitate them.
One of their ongoing projects in Koh Haa, a mesmerizing collection of limestone islets surrounding an aquamarine lagoon, has yielded promising results, with the coral reef displaying signs of good health. While threats persist, there is currently no urgent need for rehabilitation in this area.
However, the situation in Koh Rok, a pristine pair of islets adorned with powdery soft sands and embraced by warm, shallow seas, tells a different story. Here, coral degradation has been observed, prompting Anuar Abdullah and his partners to engage in continuous research and monitoring to prevent future threats.
The Unconventional Challenge of Climate Change
Climate change is undeniably a significant threat to all tropical islands and marine ecosystems, but Anuar Abdullah reveals a surprising twist in the tale. Contrary to popular belief, rising temperatures are not the primary issue. Instead, the real challenge lies in the shifting seasons.
Changes in the timing of monsoon seasons and summers disrupt the reproductive cycle of coral, affecting not only these living organisms but also the entire ecosystem dependent on them, from the tiniest fish to the mightiest sea eagles.
Strategic Closures for Conservation
To combat the environmental challenges effectively, Anuar Abdullah advocates for more substantial conservation efforts, asserting that the current short-term closures implemented by Mu Ko Lanta National Park are insufficient. He believes that strategic cyclical closures are necessary to make a genuine impact on one destination while allowing visitors to explore other areas responsibly.
As an example, he points to the success of the four-year closure of Maya Bay, an iconic lagoon in Koh Phi Phi made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Anuar Abdullah was actively involved in this conservation effort. He acknowledges the economic realities and Thailand’s dependency on tourism but highlights the positive outcome of this approach. Local travel agents now recognize the benefits of conservation. Instead of sending throngs of tourists to Maya Bay, they now limit the number of visitors, resulting in increased revenue due to the destination’s exclusivity.
A Commitment to Conservation
Pimalai Resort & Spa, which has been welcoming guests for over two decades, has always prioritized the delicate balance between showcasing and preserving Southern Thailand’s natural wonders. These ecosystems are the very essence of what makes this region a coveted destination among global travellers.
The resort’s owner, Charintip Tiyaphorn, states, “We have a duty to preserve them for future generations. By collaborating with experts like Anuar Abdullah and working alongside our partners and stakeholders, we can establish a comprehensive, long-term action plan for conservation in the area.”
Nestled amidst 100 acres of lush jungle, descending gracefully to a pristine 900-metre-long white sandy beach, Pimalai Resort & Spa stands as an eco-friendly haven of tranquillity. The resort offers a wide range of sustainable activities and experiences, including small-scale excursions that allow guests to explore the enchanting attractions of Mu Ko Lanta National Park, encompassing Koh Haa and Koh Rok. It is no surprise that Pimalai has earned its place in the Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s (SLH) Considerate Collection, an exclusive portfolio of highly responsible five-star hotels.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts between Pimalai Resort & Spa, Anuar Abdullah, and Mu Ko Lanta National Park are a beacon of hope for the preservation of Southern Thailand’s coral reefs. Their commitment to conservation, strategic initiatives, and the involvement of experts like Anuar Abdullah offer a glimpse of a sustainable future where natural wonders thrive, and responsible tourism flourishes.
