TRAT — A social media announcement about the sale of “Koh Kham” island in Trat Province for 1.8 billion baht ($53.2 million) has created a buzz. Local officials confirm this is a genuine sale and note that the island has been traded before, likely due to construction restrictions in the area.
On October 23, Mr. Non Suwatchananon, Chief of Koh Mak Subdistrict Administrative Organization in Koh Kood District, Trat Province, revealed that Koh Kham is a small, beautiful island with fine white sand beaches. The legally documented area is only about 10 rai, and property taxes are paid to the Koh Mak SAO annually. The island has changed hands several times.
Currently, the owner of “Mum Aroi” restaurant owns the property, having bought it from several business people. Previously, Mr. Chakraphan Tawetikul, former president of Trat Tourism Business Association and former chief of Koh Mak SAO, was an owner who bought it from a local Trat resident.
The island has only one owner and no official accommodations, with only small structures present. The rest is mostly forested. Tourists can visit but must pay a landing fee.
Mr. Non’s information matches the sale announcement which states: “Private island for sale – Koh Kham, one of Thailand’s top 10 most beautiful islands, frequently reviewed by influencers. Clean, private, beautiful sea, clear water, white sand, and features a sandbar and volcanic rocks arranged like natural sculptures.”
The announcement also mentions the approximately 10 rai of private ownership, located about 35 kilometers from Laem Ngop coast in Trat province, near Koh Mak (just 1 km away), accessible by speedboat in 30-40 minutes.
The listing mentions a partially constructed resort that was halted, with an asking price of 1,800,000,000 baht.
Mr. Dechathon Chan-ob, Chief of Koh Kood SAO, added that on August 26, 2024, officials inspected resort construction on Koh Kham due to suspected sea encroachment and land encroachment.
The inspection team included Rear Admiral Sanon Cha-em, Deputy Commander of Chanthaburi and Trat Defense Force, with 50 marines, Trat Harbor Department officials, Trat Forest officials, Natural Resources and Environment office staff, and naval personnel from Trat Naval Supply Base.
The inspection revealed a seawall construction along the beach stretching over 500 meters, a 149-meter pier, and unauthorized construction of accommodation and workers’ quarters beyond the 10 rai legal boundary. They also found encroachment on hillsides for viewpoint construction and extensive forest clearing for development.
At that time, Rear Admiral Sanon stated that the relevant agencies would summarize all violations for legal proceedings. However, the Trat prosecutor later declined to file charges, and related agencies did not appeal the case.
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