Indigenous communities in Ratanakiri are on high alert as the government's SPIN Program (Special Program to Promote Investment) aims to bring $667 million in development to Cambodia's northeast, reviving fears of land grabs and privatization of the sacred areas.

Meanwhile indigenous community surrounding Yeak Laom Lake in Ratanakiri province alleged that parts of the forest in Phnom Youl were destroyed and the allegations were linked to BVB Investment Corp’s development project in the area. The company also promised jobs for the local communities but the jobs never came and the communities feared being prevented from entering the forest.

In February 2026, Business and Human Rights Centre invited BVB Investment to respond to allegations but it did not.