This archive report was first published on 6 July 2019.
Published on July 6, 2019, a baby dugong, later named Jamil, washed ashore in southern Thailand, sparking interest in ocean conservation.
The newly named dugong, Jamil, was found with scratches on its back and is now rehabilitating in a pool at the Phuket Marine Biological Centre.
Princess Sirivannavari, a fashion designer, has taken both Jamil and Mariam, another rescued dugong, under her royal patronage.
The princess has also set up working teams for the conservation of Thailand's sea and corals, aiming to conserve rare and near-extinct marine animals.
Photos and videos of Mariam, the social media star, have gone viral after her rescue last month, captivating Thais and prompting a growing interest in ocean conservation.
According to the Phuket Marine Biological Centre, dugong beachings can be attributed to fishing and other human activities.
