In Thailand, seagrass meadows provide essential feeding grounds for the dugong (Dugong dugon), which is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Declining seagrass cover, partly caused by sedimentation from coastal dredging and land erosion, threatens local dugong populations. Conserving these habitats is therefore essential for the long-term survival of dugongs and other associated marine fauna.
Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS), in collaboration with Kuang Pei San Food Products Public Company Limited (PUMPUI), launched the “PUMPUI SEA of SMILES” project to establish seagrass enclosures at Laem Sai Beach, Trang, protecting selected seagrass beds and allowing them to recover and spread naturally.
On 5 November 2025, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS), in collaboration with Kuang Pei San Foods Public Company Limited and the Trang Provincial Small-Scale Fisheries Association, implemented the “PUMPUI SEA OF SMILES – Bringing Smiles to the Seas of Trang” project.
The project aimed to raise awareness of marine and coastal resource conservation and support seagrass ecosystem restoration. A 10 × 10 m bamboo enclosure was installed to protect seagrass from damage. As a vital food source for dugongs, seagrass plays an essential role in maintaining the health of Trang’s marine ecosystem. The initiative also strengthened collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, academic institutions, and local communities.
Additional conservation activities included releasing 100,000 banana shrimp and 50 berried blue swimming crabs to support marine ecosystem productivity. Students and local youth also participated in coastal cleanups and waste segregation to promote the concept of “Clean Communities, Sustainable Seas.”
Related Links:
https://thainews.prd.go.th/thainews/news/view/1541249/?bid=1
https://siamrath.co.th/regional/51499379-2540-415d-a5d4-0b3ea6a9a673
https://fishtech.rmutsv.ac.th/ruts/2025/11/02/48711/new-200/