Minister of Tourism Hout Hak highlighted how the development of ecotourism and tourism communities is an appropriate mechanism for the effective and efficient development and conservation of natural resources within protected areas and biodiversity corridors.
He addressed the opening ceremony of the “National Ecotourism Forum 2025” on November 24, stating that the development of ecotourism and tourism communities provides opportunities for local citizens to participate actively in decision-making, in organising and developing their own communities, in deriving direct benefits from tourism equitably and in profit-sharing from tourism and ecotourism services.
Hak, who also serves as chairman of the National Committee for Management and Development of Tourism Communities and Ecotourism, noted that ecotourism contributes to poverty reduction, the reduction of migration, and the effective and sustainable management of natural resources.
Also in attendance at the forum, held in Siem Reap province, was Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and vice-chairman of the ecotourism committee.
The tourism minister also highlighted the recommendations of Prime Minister Hun Manet, who has given high priority to development within communities, ensuring that economic, social,and environmental benefits for community members are the top priority.
“Cambodia is recognised internationally for its community and ecotourism work, especially within the ASEAN framework, through the implementation of the tourism community development model under the form of Public-Private-People Partnership (4Ps). This empowers community citizens and provides maximum benefits to the locality. It has reduced poverty and respects the principles of sustainability and responsibility,” he said.
He added that this partnership aligns with the concept that “Conservation serves development, development serves conservation”, and aligns with the “Equitable Profit-Sharing Model”.
During the ceremony agriculture minister Dith Tina noted that tourism is a part of diversification to generate additional income for farmers through the direct supply of products and services. He described this diversification as “on-site export”.
He also highlighted the conservation work of the agriculture ministry, specifically its efforts to protect, manage and conserve the Mekong Irrawaddy dolphins, which are a natural treasure and a major attraction for ecotourism in Cambodia.
