Tourism ministry leaders and private sector representatives visit the Knong Psar area. Tourism ministry
A well-known tourism industry insider has praised a government-spearheaded initiative that will see the local community develop Kampong Speu province’s Te Tuk Puh and Knong Psar natural resort areas.
On March 8, Prime Minister Hun Manet, along with government leaders and provincial authorities, visited Knong Psar.
He announced that no private sector investment would be allowed in the area, leaving the community to benefit from tourism activities. He explained that investment in the region would assist local communities in improving their livelihoods, as more and more tourists visit.
Manet noted that several private companies have previously expressed interest in investing in infrastructure, such as building roads and accommodation, in these natural tourist areas.
“When we examine this idea closely, we can see that it is not appropriate. Let the community handle it. If the community is unable to do so, we should teach them how to earn a living. Do not replace the role of the community,” he said.
“Do not replace the community; teach them how to do business and don’t just create jobs. In places where the community can earn a living, we should assist them to increase their capacity to run businesses,” he added.
Thoun Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), told the Post on April 1 that Te Tuk Puh and Knong Psar are natural tourist destinations with great potential that will help improve the living standards of local communities.
He described them as resembling paradise in folklore, with unparalleled natural beauty, thanks to their abundant natural resources and a favourable environment.
Sinan believed that the prime minister’s decision to encourage local people to manage tourism packages was the correct one.
“Te Tuk Puh and Knong Psar are like hidden gems that were overlooked in the past. In reality, both locations are highly significant and have tremendous potential for the tourism industry,” he noted.
On March 29, Minister of Tourism Huot Hak, along with senior officials and specialists from the tourism ministry, conducted a field visit to Knong Psar and Te Tuk Puh.
They were accompanied by representatives from the private sector, including members of the Cambodian Association of Travel Agents (CATA), Cambodia Tourism Federation (CTF), PATA, and senior staff from the Vireak Buntham Company.
The purpose of the visit was to explore possibilities for creating tourism packages that will attract more tourists and help elevate the living standards of local communities.
Te Tuk Puh, in Aural district, features more than 80 square metres of geothermal springs. The pools, which have a strong smell of sulphur, reach temperatures of around 70°C.
The local villagers, who are mostly from the Suoy ethnic group, believe that the hot spring water is sacred and can cure various diseases, especially skin conditions. Local custom has it that washing one’s face in the hot water will bring good fortune.
Visitors to the area can explore the local customs, and daily lives of the Suoy people, and watch performances of traditional dances.
Knong Psar features dense forests, towering mountains, lush grassy meadows and abundant wildlife. It connects three provinces: Kampong Speu, Koh Kong, and Pursat.
