Prime Minister Hun Manet has committed to the continued protection of the Tonle Sap Lake, while also reiterating the government’s measures to support Cambodian farmers.

While addressing the closing of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ annual meeting on January 30, Manet explained that in 2011, the government issued a sub-decree on the zoning of the lake, which made no exceptions for existing villages.

The area around the lake is classified into three zones. Private residences and land ownership is allowed only in Zone 1, whereas land use in Zone 2 is restricted to certain subsistence activities. Zone 3 land is entirely strictly protected conservation area.

In 2022, then-Prime Minister Hun Sen addressed the issue, calling for the rezoning of some parts of the land, in ways that would not affect the biodiversity of the lake but would allow residents of existing villages to remain in their homes.

“Under the seventh mandate, the government will continue this work. We will ensure that the zoning is based on the principles of accuracy and effectiveness, as stated in the guideline issued by the previous government. 

According to Manet, one priority activity that will be carried out in the near future is the registration of all of the land around the lake.

He instructed Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction Say Samal to lead the work, in cooperation with the Tonle Sap Authority (TSA).

“We must resolutely protect the Tonle Sap Lake, which is a national treasure. Local authorities are the key players in this task. The [TSA] and the local armed forces must work together to ensure this is done, with a special focus on preventing any encroachment on flooded forests,” he said.

Prime Minister Hun Manet (centre) presides over the closing ceremony of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries’ annual meeting on January 30. STPM

“We must keep the Tonle Sap untouched, and in the future we will find a way to make it even healthier.

He described the lake as part of the identity of Cambodia, noting that it is the largest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia. He warned that those who have claimed land in Zone 3 around the lake should withdraw before legal action is pursued.

He warned the authorities in the six provinces bordering the lake that they must ensure the work is completed accurately and effectively, or they would face consequences.

“I don’t want to have to dismiss people, but I will if it becomes necessary. This is not an empty threat, but a very real one,” he said.

Manet also praised the agriculture ministry for its “excellent” achievements in the past year.

While acknowledging that the effects of this year’s El Nino whether phenomenon are likely to last for a long period, he praised the local authorities for dealing with water shortages during the dry-season rice cultivation period in a timely manner.

He instructed the relevant authorities to devise strategic plans to deal with a possible lack of water for crops in the future. Dealing with water shortages should be inclusive, with the participation of farmers, he added.

The premier noted that his government places a focus on agricultural development, through its involvement with several initiatives such as the “rice and fish corridor” and “diamond cooperation” with China, as well as plans to turn the Kingdom into a “cashew empire” in the future.

Manet reiterated that the government will offer tax relief for smallholder farming and rice fields, as well as the import of agricultural materials. It has also agreed to offer tariff relief on the basic food needs of the people until 2028. He also noted preferential legislation for 14 agriculture products and export goods.

“For basic daily consumption for people until 2028, the General Department of Taxation [GDT] must prepare a list of agricultural products and basic needs that will receive tax relief. We not only need to care for our farmers, but for all consumers,” he said.