Disappearing seagrass in sea off Trang threatens dugong population

23 Sept 07:04 Key points summarised by AI

Seagrass, a critical food source for dugongs, is rapidly declining in the seas off Thailand’s Trang province, alarming marine scientists and conservationists.
Potential causes for the depletion include sediment accumulation from waterway dredging, an increasing green sea turtle population, and the possibility of seagrass wasting disease.
While some areas show significant seagrass loss, a substantial 3,200-hectare bed currently mitigates an immediate threat to Trang's 188 dugongs.
Scientists warn that continued sediment dumping could permanently prevent seagrass regrowth, posing a severe long-term risk to the marine ecosystem.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.