Prime Minister Hun Manet yesterday said that the Kampot International Tourism Port development project is part of a broader infrastructure initiative aimed at fostering inclusive tourism growth in the Greater Mekong Subregion.
Presiding over the official inauguration ceremony of the Kampot International Tourism Port in Kampot province, Mr Hun Manet described it as “a significant achievement, enhancing the use of port services to connect with other tourist destinations. This development is a key component of the infrastructure plan to promote inclusive tourism in the Greater Mekong Subregion, supported by ADB funding”.
The event was attended by Peng Ponea, Minister of Public Works and Transport, Jyotsana Varma, ADB Country Director for Cambodia, AZ Builders Co. Ltd., representative and several national and international dignitaries, ministry leaders, and local citizens.
Lauding the port’s pilot operation for progressing well, Mr Hun Manet said, “While international connectivity with neighbouring or regional countries has not yet been established, the port has already played a crucial role in promoting sea and island tourism to destinations such as Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem, and Koh Sdach.”
“This newly inaugurated port is a significant milestone, opened shortly after the celebration of the traditional Khmer New Year,” he emphasized.
The premier also instructed the operating company to prepare and implement a clear, long-term investment plan to ensure the sustainable operation and maintenance of the Kampot International Tourist Port.
Emphasizing the expansion of the port’s infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels carrying more passengers and tourists from various locations, Mr Hun Manet called for continuous improvements in service delivery, aiming for greater efficiency, speed, convenience, and reliability while maintaining fair pricing and upholding cleanliness and visual appeal at the port. He stressed the importance of enhancing security and safety for all staff, passengers, and ships.
He further urged the Management Committee for the Operation and Maintenance of the Kampot International Tourism Port – which includes the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Kampot Provincial Administration – to closely monitor, supervise, and coordinate efforts to address company concerns and ensure the port maintains high service standards.
Mr Hun Manet also encouraged collaboration between the operating company and relevant ministries and institutions to explore potential foreign partnerships, which could expand port operations internationally and facilitate convenient entry and exit for tourists.
Construction of the Kampot International Tourism Port began on August 8, 2018, and was completed on June 30, 2022. Funding came primarily from a loan of approximately $10 million provided by ADB, with additional contributions from the Cambodian government to cover taxes, personnel support, and office equipment and facilities.
Peng Ponea, Minister of Public Works and Transport, highlighted that the port covers an area of 4.25 hectares. He noted that the port aims to improve maritime transportation connections to various tourist destinations, including Kep province, Preah Sihanouk province, Koh Kong province, and several islands across Cambodia.
“These enhanced connections are expected to significantly boost socio-economic activities by creating job opportunities and increasing income for local communities and businesses such as restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops, and travel companies. The project also encourages the development of new entertainment venues in Kampot province and other regions, ultimately attracting more tourists,” Ponea said.
The Kampot International Tourism Port is part of the Tourism Infrastructure Development Project for Inclusive Growth in the Greater Mekong Subregion. This initiative, supported by the ADB, was initially prepared by the Ministry of Tourism and transferred to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport for further implementation in 2020.
Varma expressed pride in partnering with the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Ministry of Tourism, and Kampot Provincial Authorities under the GMS Tourism Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth Project.
“The project’s goal is to transform Kampot into a competitive tourism destination, connecting with Vietnam, Thailand, and domestic islands. We believe the port will attract more national and international tourists, boosting the local economy and benefiting local businesses,” she said.
“ADB has worked closely with the government for over a decade to help build a tourism-enabling ecosystem, including strengthening infrastructure and planning at the provincial level, supporting small but vital infrastructure, working with communities to enhance their skills, and overall supporting the improvement of the tourism experience for local and international visitors in coastal areas,” Varma added.