Vietnam adds 3 ASEAN heritage parks, 2 cities recognized for environment

Within the framework of the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment (AMME-18) recently held in Malaysia, delegates approved six new ASEAN Heritage Parks, raising the bloc’s total number of protected parks to 69.

Notably, Vietnam had three national parks recognized at this event. They include Pu Mat National Park (Nghe An), Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve, and Xuan Thuy National Park (Ninh Binh).

In addition, two Vietnamese cities, Hoa Lu and Hai Phong, were honored at the 6th ASEAN Environmentally Sustainable Cities (ESC) Award Ceremony and the 5th Certificate of Recognition (COR) Ceremony, which took place in Langkawi, Kedah State, Malaysia.

Hoa Lu City was among the 10 outstanding cities receiving the 6th ESC Award. The award recognizes cities that demonstrate outstanding commitment to maintaining a green, clean, and livable environment. It also acknowledges the city’s remarkable initiatives in sustainable tourism development, environmental education, and awareness-raising in schools.

Hai Phong City received the 5th COR in the category of “Urban biodiversity and green space.” The award highlights Hai Phong’s efforts in biodiversity conservation and the development of urban green spaces.

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, the awards serve as evidence of strong commitments by cities to the environment amid rapid urbanization. At the same time, they reinforce ASEAN’s collective determination to share best practices and cooperate toward a greener future.

The fact that Vietnam was recognized with three parks and two cities at regional-level events demonstrates its persistent efforts in a green development strategy that harmonizes nature conservation with socio-economic growth. This also presents an opportunity for Vietnam to enhance its national image within the ASEAN community, affirming its proactive and responsible role in global commitments on environment, climate change, and sustainable development.