The Ministry of Environment and development partners will issue uniforms to the over 290,000 members of 190 local community protected areas for patrolling and formal events.

Ministry secretary of state Mom Thany said at an August 24 meeting held to select the uniform that its introduction would have to be managed smoothly. The uniforms would lead to more efficient law enforcement in the future, so said.

She added that the uniform will be an important part of community members’ conservation of natural resources and patrolling. It would solidify their identity as protectors and managers of the Kingdom’s natural treasures. In the long term, their work is in the best interest of every generation of Cambodian, she said.

“Participation in patrols through the use of these uniforms will strengthen their capabilities,” she said.

Ros Chhor, head of the ministry’s Community Livelihoods Department, said each member will receive two sets a year.

“They are only for use in their own communities, and each is labelled with the correct place name. They cannot use them to abuse their authority outside of their own protected areas,” he added.

The ministry will provide the budget for the uniforms.