"PM Calls on Investors to Ensure Khnang Phsa Community Benefit from Tourism Development", 11 March 2025

A community at Khnang Phsa has raised concerns that investors are taking the lead in a raft of development projects, including infrastructure, a resort and other tourism activities, on the mountain that should be given to residents to manage. In response, the Prime Minister has suspended some projects and called on developers to hand over operations of relevant tourism projects to the community.

…, Hun Manet said, “Some locals there are also worried that the community cannot develop and run the development smoothly when no private sector is involved. I quickly said that there should be a lesson or implementation to teach the community, rather than let investors carry out all of the activities.”

He explained that developers should not simply state that they invest there to help the community, which sits at the intersection of Koh Kong, Kampong Speu and Pursat provinces, particularly by offering jobs, and then not do so. In contrast, relevant stakeholders and investors should support the development of the community to ensure residents benefit…

Khnang Phsa Mountain is 1,177 metres above sea level and covered by the Central Cardamom Mountain range. The eco-site is home to sweeping green fields, fresh air and flanked by a river of clouds, making it an idyllic tourist destination…

Thourn Sinan, Chairman of IMCT Co Ltd and PATA Cambodia, commented that the situation in Khnang Phsa highlights a common challenge in community development where the interests of local residents may clash with external investments.

He said that it is crucial that these investments genuinely consider the needs and voices of the community. Recommended actions could include establishing a dialogue between the community and investors to discuss concerns and expectations…