In an effort to tackle ongoing local land disputes, Battambang provincial governor Sok Lou has made an urgent appeal to the authorities to ensure a quick and efficient resolution to these disputes, allowing for a faster issuance of property identification certificates to rightful owners.

Governor Lou’s statement came during a notable ceremony on July 19, where ownership certificates were officially handed over to the residents of Sdao village, located in the Ratanak Mondol district.

The event was a gathering of importance, with representatives from relevant institutions and a significant number of families in attendance.

In his address, the provincial governor emphasised the necessity of actively addressing land disputes.

“If we do not strive to resolve these land disputes, it will be challenging to provide people with their ownership certificates,” he said.

This direct link between dispute resolution and property ownership certifies the importance of swift action.

The governor further elaborated on the government’s stance towards the issue. He explained that the ultimate goal in issuing these certificates of immovable property was to reassure the public that the authorities are working diligently, quickly, and comprehensively to serve their best interests.

Furthermore, Lou made a plea to the recipients of these certificates, urging them to exercise prudence in the use of their newly certified lands. He particularly cautioned them against hastily buying or selling their properties, suggesting that they should instead preserve these lands for future generations.

In his argument, the governor reasoned: “If this land is sold, there will be a loss of income and no land for farming or housing to pass on to the next generation”.

His warning underscores the long-term economic implications of land transactions, particularly for farming communities.

Amidst the ongoing proceedings, Soun Sophea, director of the Department of Land Management, Urban Planning, Construction and Cadastral Affairs of Battambang province, noted the active participation of the local residents in this project.

Their involvement signifies their stake and interest in the resolution of the land disputes.

Supporting the governor’s statement, Kuy Vanno, the district governor of Ratanak Mondol, confirmed that the district had established systematic registration procedures.

These processes are designed to grant land ownership titles efficiently to the residents of Sdao village and commune. He also highlighted that out of a total of 1,427 land plots, 1,345 have already fulfilled all legal prerequisites and are now under review for the Sdao commune.

This further progress in land registration marks another significant stride towards resolving the local land disputes.