The Dong Nai Nature and Culture Reserve has officially been recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park at the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment (AMME-18) held in Malaysia in September 2025, marking an important milestone in Vietnam's efforts toward nature conservation and sustainable development.
Covering an area of over 100,000 hectares, including more than 63,000 hectares of natural forest and over 32,500 hectares of water surface of Tri An Lake, the reserve is considered the “green lung" of the Southeast region. It features diverse tropical forest ecosystems, including evergreen broadleaf forests, mixed bamboo and broadleaf forests, grassland–shrub ecosystems, and typical river and lake ecosystems.
A lush panoramic view of the Dong Nai Reserve. (Photo: Collected)
The area is home to nearly 1,900 animal species and more than 600 plant species, including many rare and endangered species such as the Asian elephant, gaur, sun bear, clouded leopard, and black-shanked douc langur. Notably, it is home to Vietnam's last wild elephant herd, with around 22 individuals, holding significant value for conservation and scientific research.
Dong Nai Nature and Culture Reserve – A sustainable green destination of the Southeast region and Vietnam. (Photo: Collected)
The ASEAN Heritage Park title is awarded based on 12 stringent criteria, including ecological integrity, high conservation value, legal status, and effective management. This recognition not only affirms international acknowledgment but also opens up opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange in nature conservation among ASEAN member states.
The recognition also creates favorable conditions for Dong Nai to develop eco-tourism, attract investment, and gradually shift its growth model toward a green and sustainable economy. At the same time, it helps promote the locality's image and enhance Vietnam's position in environmental protection and climate change response.
Vietnam currently has 12 ASEAN Heritage Parks, among the highest in the region, demonstrating its active role in environmental initiatives and sustainable development. Dong Nai, in particular, with the largest forest area in the Southeast, is emerging as a bright spot in biodiversity conservation associated with green economic development.
The ASEAN Heritage Park designation is not only a source of pride but also a driving force for Dong Nai to continue preserving forest resources, promoting eco-tourism, and contributing to the goal of building a sustainable ASEAN Community.