Kong Vong shows off his operation, which was selected as a model farm by the agriculture ministry. FB
In the world of agriculture, some farmers naturally excel. One such star is a Takeo farmer who masterfully manages over six hectares of land, harvesting thrice annually. His proficiency has led to a substantial income of 12 to 15 million riel per harvest.
Recognising this, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has deemed him a second-tier model farmer.
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Kong Vong, a 56-year-old resident of Champa village and commune in Takeo province’s Prey Kabbas district, understands the essence of farming.
“In farming, we need to observe the market and understand demand. Once we comprehend both, we can adjust our strategy to accommodate what our rice lacks and what more it requires,” he told The Post.
Each year, Vong cultivates rice over six hectares of land. He uses the high-yielding OM 5451 rice variety, a fragrant crossbreed that couples disease resistance and productivity. With yields of 5.5 to 6 tonnes per hectare and a favourable market price this year, he enjoyed an annual income of 108 million riel ($27,000). He also grows vegetables over 1.5ha of land, diversifying his farming practice.
When his rice crops are harvested, Vong’s focus shifts to vegetables. He’s preparing a hectare of land for a fresh cycle of vegetable growth, favouring a medley of cabbage, cucumbers, and long beans, with cucumbers being the dominant crop.
He explained the significance of reliable water sources in farming. His land benefits from the presence of lakes and streams. During droughts, well water comes to the rescue, ensuring his crops thrive.
According to Vong, achieving a good yield is every farmer’s aspiration. Therefore, farmers need to monitor market trends, cultivate accordingly, and carefully observe the rice growing process.
“We know precisely when our rice requires specific fertiliser. But sometimes, the fertiliser can harm the rice. In such instances, we may need to adjust the amount or change the type,” he noted.
Vong credits his unfailing profits to the expert training he received from various agricultural organisations. His adherence to technical standards even attracted the attention of the former agriculture minister, Veng Sakhon, who inspected his farm twice.
Vong’s prowess was recognised in 2018 when the agriculture ministry declared him a second-tier model vegetable farmer. His skills have also seen him invited to present at the Ministry of Rural Development and the Cambodia-Korea Cooperation Centre in Phnom Penh.
His advice to other farmers centres around quality. He emphasised the importance of high-quality crops and diligent work.
“Farmers should not merely focus on profit. Attention to detail makes or breaks a crop. In a free market, farmers who don’t strive to find their markets will struggle,” he said.
Champa commune chief Bun Kimleang, lauded Vong as a model farmer, particularly praising his exceptional rice farming and his willingness to share his knowledge with other farmers.
“Other farmers also cultivate rice, but he stands out for his exceptional produce,” she noted.
Whilst the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in Takeo province could not be reached for comment, an appreciation letter signed by Ty Sokun, secretary of state for the agriculture ministry, confirmed Vong’s status as a second-tier farmer. The letter commended Vong for his “outstanding achievements in implementing new agricultural techniques in safe and economically viable vegetable production”.
