Abstract:
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The study of policy and management strategies of Thung Yai Naresuan and
Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries as a World Natural Heritage site was conducted
with the following aims: 1) to study the historic background of Thung Yai Naresuan
and Huai Kha Khaeng Sanctuaries world natural heritage; 2) to study and analyze the
current status, situations, and problems regarding the management of Thung Yai
Naresuan and Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries; 3) to propose strategic
management measures based on technical points of view on the world natural heritage
management, and 4) to propose management policy for the Thung Yai Naresuan and
Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries with respect to appropriate guidelines for
achieving the full potential of the World Natural Heritage for the sustainable interests
of the nation. Qualitative research methods were employed to investigate the historic
background of the inscription of Thung Yai Naresuan and Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife
Sanctuaries as a World Natural Heritage site, the benefit of being listed as a world
heritage site, the current status of management and situation, and government policy
related to management of this world natural heritage site. Data was collected from
document sources, non- participant observations, participant observations, focus group
discussions and in-depth interviews.
The research findings indicate that the inscription of Thung Yai Naresuan and
Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries as a World Natural Heritage site in 1991 was
supported by public intention to strengthen the protection of the site and to prevent
external threats such as a major infrastructure development projects. The management
and protection of the World Natural Heritage site is carried out by the Department of
National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation which administers and enforces the Wild
Animals Reservation and Protection Act 1992 (B.E. 2535). Policy and management
frameworks comprise of legislation, knowledge- based management, boundary
protection, buffer zone management, and public awareness. The research findings
indicate that world heritage listing does not bring any sound policy for management of
this World Natural Heritage site. The following strategies were recommended for
sustainable management: strengthening the site protection, scientific knowledge-based
management, buffer zone management, enhancing public participation, and public
awareness building. Supporting policy and management plans can protect the World
Natural Heritage site from inappropriate exploitation and misuse.
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