The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has announced that only guides with SAMPA guide certification will be permitted to take tourists to the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA).
The SAMPA is a plankton-rich area due to its reefs and currents. Due to this, the area attracts the endangered whale shark, which frequents the area for feeding and to regulate its body temperature.
As whale sharks are present in the area year-round, a large number of tourists from across the world flock to the area year-round to witness these creatures. However, in recent history, several unfortunate incidents have occurred during diving and snorkeling activities in the area. According to the Ministry, approximately 70 percent of whale sharks in the area have been injured by vessel propellers.
The management plan formulated by the Ministry sets out the rules to be followed by those responsible for guiding tourists to the SAMPA, including SAMPA guides, captains and crew members of vessels. The plan outlines that only guides who hold SAMPA guide certifications can take tourists to the area, with the requirement taking effect three months after the gazetting of the management plan.
According to the Ministry, the management plan was developed based on extensive discussions held since July 2024. Over the course of eight meetings, over 300 stakeholders and experts were consulted. The decisions regarding the plan were taken on the recommendation of an advisory committee comprised of relevant stakeholders, the Ministry said.