170 sea turtles released in Nai Yang conservation event

*170 sea turtles released in Nai Yang conservation event — confirmed details at this stage for Phuket readers.*

Published: 2026-03-17 00:10 UTC Event date: 2026-03-16

170 sea turtles released in Nai Yang conservation event

Marine conservation event at Nai Yang Beach draws community support

A total of 170 green sea turtles were released into the Andaman Sea at Nai Yang Beach, Phuket, on Saturday, March 14, as part of the 14th annual ‘Digging in the Sand, Touching the Waves’ marine conservation event. The release was held at Nai Yang Beach Resort and along Nai Yang Beach in Thalang District, with Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong presiding over the opening ceremony. The event was attended by Dr Khemmawan Chuthong, Deputy President of the Phuket Red Cross Society, representatives from government agencies, private sector partners, students from Kajonkiet School, local residents, and tourists.

Conservation efforts for sea turtles and marine biodiversity

The Phuket Sea Turtle Conservation and Rehabilitation Group organised the event in cooperation with provincial authorities and the Phuket Tourist Association, led by President Thaneth Tantipiriyakij. Participants released the turtles into the sea as a symbolic act to strengthen marine resource conservation and raise awareness about protecting rare marine animals. In addition to the sea turtles, bamboo sharks—locally known as ‘frog sharks’—were also released to support the restoration of marine biodiversity. Organisers highlighted that these releases aim to improve the survival chances of rare marine species and help restore natural marine ecosystems around Phuket.

Public engagement and long-term conservation goals

Members of the public were invited to support the programme by sponsoring the release of a sea turtle for B4,000, with funds allocated for the care, rehabilitation, and long-term conservation of sea turtles in Phuket. Now in its 14th year, the ‘Digging in the Sand, Touching the Waves’ event seeks to foster cooperation between government agencies, businesses, residents, and visitors in protecting marine resources. Officials noted that the programme also helps promote Phuket’s image as an eco-tourism destination committed to sustainable management of the Andaman Sea.

Looking ahead, organisers plan to continue annual conservation activities and encourage broader participation from the community and private sector to ensure the ongoing protection of Phuket’s marine environment.

Source: https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMimwFBVV95cUxOMVducmNnUTZFcVBXOUZOa0h1TXFKMjM1ZG5ER09GRE9IdXozTTEySUl3OTVCcUtSTHRzTWQyZlJua0I5OHZTc09wNGdIVndBYXMzNXctT1AwX2FmOEFFazB5V3d4enFXVkp1ZER0MGVVWDNueG8tNFBtQlhoaW9ER1c5RXQ2X3dmOUhnaU5naFY1Y21aM1pzUVM3WQ?oc=5