Walking, Jogging and Biking Campaign for Coastal and Marine Conservation along the Chalatat Beach, Songkhla Province of Thailand
About This Event
Songkhla World Oceans Day 2026, Promoting Strong Marine Protected Areas for Sustainability
Songkhla, Thailand – June 7, 2026 – Mr. Rathasart Chidchu, Governor of Songkhla Province, presided over the opening ceremony of World Oceans Day 2026 at the Music and Cultural Plaza, Songkhla Municipality, Chalatat Beach, Songkhla Province. More than 200 participants from government agencies, international organizations, civil society groups, and local communities attended the event.
This year’s celebration featured a walk, run, and cycling activities aimed at raising public awareness and encouraging community participation in marine conservation. The event was held under the theme “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet,” in line with the United Nations’ efforts to strengthen effective marine protection measures to conserve biodiversity, restore marine resources, and support the global goal of protecting at least 30 percent of the world’s oceans by 2030.
In his opening remarks, the Governor emphasized Songkhla Province’s commitment to fostering collaboration among all sectors in conserving and restoring marine and coastal resources. These efforts include protecting marine ecosystems, safeguarding aquatic breeding grounds, improving water quality, and empowering local communities to utilize natural resources responsibly and sustainably. Such initiatives contribute to long-term food security and ensure the availability of marine resources for future generations.
During the event, participants jointly pledged their commitment to protecting the Gulf of Thailand and Songkhla Lake. A black tiger shrimp release activity was also conducted to help restore fisheries resources and enhance marine ecosystem productivity.
According to the Department of Fisheries, approximately 10 percent of the released shrimp—an estimated 50,000 individuals—are expected to survive. Once they reach market size, the resulting fisheries yield could generate more than THB 300,000 in income for local fishing communities.
Songkhla Province encourages all sectors of society to take part in protecting marine and coastal resources, ensuring that Thailand’s seas continue to provide food, livelihoods, and vital natural resources in a sustainable manner for generations to come.
For further information:
The Alumni Society of IOI Thailand (International Ocean Institute Thailand Alumni Society)
Tel: +66 91 818 9583, +66 86 308 9154