Say Samal, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC), Wednesday urged all stakeholders to participate in developing the coastal areas to make them more beautiful and attractive to promote economic growth.
Samal, who also serves as Chairman of the National Committee for Coastal Management and Development (NCCDC), made these remarks at an award ceremony in Teuk Chhou District, Kampot province, for recognizing beautiful beaches, scenic canals, and exemplary urban planning design in coastal areas.
Kampot Governor Mao Thonin and other stakeholders were present on the occasion.
Cambodia’s four coastal provinces hold significant potential to drive economic growth and enhance the national economy through increased tourist arrivals, investor attraction, and the development of ports and airports, said Samal.
He emphasized the need for all stakeholders to collaborate in developing the coastal areas to make them more attractive, fostering both tourism and investment.
Describing Kampot province as the rising star among Cambodia’s coastal destinations, second only to Siem Reap in tourist popularity, Samal said, “Kampot attracts visitors of all income levels with its numerous resorts, clean accommodations, affordable food, and proximity to Phnom Penh.”
He also pledged to promote the growth of fishing communities to enable them to accommodate more tourists and further support the local economy.
Soy Sinol, Director of Kampot Provincial Department of Tourism, told Khmer Times that currently, Kampot province continues to strengthen its tourism sector to attract both domestic and international tourists, with a particular focus on enhancing the quality of tourism, services, and the environment.
Kampot has great tourism potential and a variety of products that appeal to the tourism sector, Sinol said, adding, “The province is actively promoting the development of infrastructure for the tourism community to support the sector,” he said.
In 2024, Kampot province attracted 2.6 million tourists, including 100,000 foreign visitors.
“Provincial authorities, the DoT, and the private sector will improve the quality of security, social order, and the environment to draw more tourists to the province,” said Sinol.
MLMUPC on its official social media said that the coastal areas of Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, and Kep provinces are being enhanced to cater to multiple purposes, providing access and enjoyment for both local and international tourists, including visitors from diverse backgrounds around the world.
The Ministry said that the participation of the private sector plays a vital role in driving this significant beach development project to achieve meaningful and fruitful outcomes under the foundation of peace. This peace is a legacy of the heroic efforts and dedication of our previous generation of leaders.
“As their successors, it is our responsibility to actively contribute to preserving and strengthening this sanctuary of peace, ensuring it continues to flourish and provide greater benefits for Cambodian society in the years to come.”
