In Siem Reap, the Ministry of Environment is orchestrating a transformative initiative aimed at marrying conservation with community prosperity. The plan? Setting up entertainment venues within the protected areas of Siem Reap, a move designed to empower local communities while safeguarding Cambodia's natural heritage.

Chuob Paris, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Environment, envisions these recreational areas as more than just tourist spots. They represent a dual-purpose strategy, supporting the government's ambitious goal of increasing the country's forest cover to 60% by 2050 while uplifting local economies by integrating them into the tourism sector.

Phan Thon, Community President of the Prey Thom Anlong Thom Community Protected Area, situated atop Kulen Mountain, attests to the positive impact of tourism on community livelihoods. Selling local products and offering services to visitors have become lucrative avenues for economic growth, he explains.

Sun Kong, Director of the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Environment, emphasizes the critical role of protected areas in preserving forests and wildlife while promoting eco-tourism. With eight state-controlled protected areas covering over 280,000 hectares, Siem Reap is poised to lead the way in sustainable landscape management and eco-friendly tourism practices.