The Cabinet has granted approval to transform the Mirissa marine zone into a Blue Flag Coastal Zone and a marine wildlife sanctuary, aligning with international standards.

During the May 2023 meeting, the Cabinet of Ministers deliberated on a proposal to designate the Mirissa Marine Zone as a wildlife sanctuary. To delve deeper into the matter, a ministerial sub-committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, was tasked with studying the proposal alongside relevant stakeholders and presenting recommendations.

The sub-committee's findings highlighted the potential to quintuple the tourism economy of the southern province by upgrading the Mirissa maritime zone to meet Blue Flag Coastal Zone criteria and establish it as a Marine Wildlife Sanctuary adhering to global standards. Following thorough consideration, the Cabinet approved the Prime Minister's proposal to implement these recommendations through pertinent ministries and institutions.