Questionable Buyers Acquiring Land on Koh Chang Island

National Parks Chief Chaiwat Limlikhit-aksorn has raised alarms over a spike in land acquisitions on Koh Chang in Trat province, linked to investors with questionable business practices. This alarming trend threatens the island’s local economy.

Mr. Chaiwat, who oversees the National Parks Office, noted that private investors are purchasing extensive areas of land from local communities. He emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “Some investors are alleged to have links with shady businesses. The government and local officials must monitor their activities closely.”

He pointed out that the growth of large corporations on the island is overshadowing local businesses, which are slowly diminishing. “Local consumers are increasingly drawn to the goods and services offered by these big businesses,” he added.

To combat illegal encroachment on protected land, modern technology, including satellite imagery, is being utilized for monitoring purposes. Koh Chang’s lush rainforests and mountains are vital for providing fresh water, in contrast to other islands reliant on external sources.

“Local communities and organizations must collaborate to safeguard and preserve the island’s forests and natural environment to ensure sustainable water resources,” Mr. Chaiwat stated.

As tourism and development flourish on Koh Chang, he stressed the importance of maintaining cultural uniqueness and local identity to enhance the island’s appeal to visitors.

Addressing concerns regarding jet-skiing activities around Koh Chang National Marine Park, Mr. Chaiwat explained that the national marine park comprises 52 islands and is primarily a conservation area with restricted tourism. Activities like jet-skiing are prohibited in these zones.

“It is crucial to determine whether jet-skiing occurs on private property or within national park boundaries. Jet-skiing in public reservoirs may lead to legal issues. However, it is generally accepted as part of tourism activities,” he remarked.

Koh Chang, known as “Elephant Island” due to its shape, ranks as Thailand’s third-largest island, situated approximately 300km east of Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand.