Prime Minister Hun Manet is speaking at a graduation ceremony for students of the Human Resource University on December 26. AKP
Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed that while the government has not publicly addressed concerns about Koh Kut on Facebook, it remains actively engaged in safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.
.jpg)
His comments come as opposition groups prepare to stage a demonstration in the US on January 19 over the issue.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for students of the Human Resource University on December 26, Manet responded to criticism suggesting that the government has been silent in the face of accusations regarding territorial loss.
“I’ll say it clearly: When the government is not responding on Facebook, it doesn’t mean it isn’t working to protect, build and strengthen the country’s territorial integrity or promote national development and elevate Cambodia’s status on the international stage. We work on this every day,” he said.
“There’s no need to wave flags and shout in opposition to this or that. What we need to do is focus on our work,” he added.
Manet’s remarks addressed persistent criticism, particularly from opposition groups abroad, concerning Koh Kut’s sovereignty. Both Cambodia and Thailand claim the island, with recent reports in Thai media suggesting Thailand has asserted ownership.
In response, Cambodian opposition groups in the US have announced plans for a “Defend Koh Kut” protest in Long Beach, California on January 19. The demonstration aims to demand that the Cambodian government clarify the island’s status, formally declare it Khmer territory or escalate the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Pa Chanroeun, president of the Cambodian Institute for Democracy (CID), acknowledged that border and territorial issues are inherently sensitive for both Cambodian and Thai citizens, often sparking public concern and expressions of opinion.
He stressed the importance of government transparency in addressing the matter, suggesting that outlining steps being taken, timelines and progress in negotiations would help dispel doubts.
“From the recent Cambodia-Laos-Vietnam Development Triangle Area [CLV-DTA] issue, we’ve seen how the government used mechanisms to consistently provide information, including agreements and progress updates on the project, to the people. They even organised excursions to allow citizens to see border areas of concern,” he said.
“For Koh Kut, the lack of information creates public doubt and worry. The government should disseminate clear information to the public. If Koh Kut is a contested area, can citizens visit it? If Thais are allowed access, can Cambodians go too? This is still an unresolved issue,” he added.
Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, remarked that while patriotism is admirable, actions taken by citizens or opposition groups must not undermine the country’s national interests. He encouraged all parties to carefully study relevant documents to avoid misinterpretations that could harm the nation.
“When it comes to territorial matters, all Cambodians must prioritise national interests. Whether in opposition or government, if the issue affects the collective interest of Khmer people, it should not be politicised. Territorial and sovereignty issues require unity as a nation to address challenges from other nations,” Peou stated.
He urged strategic and adaptive participation in territorial defense efforts, cautioning against actions that might inadvertently serve adversaries or compromise Khmer interests.
“Participation must be strategic and avoid approaches that harm Cambodia’s position or serve the agendas of foreign actors or political figures,” he added.
