"International Media Criticize Stalled Funan Project as Affected Residents Demand Updates from Government", 29 November 2024

Despite the promise of transparency and collaboration, communication and action gaps have emerged following the groundbreaking of the Funan Techo Canal project. While local residents continue to ask the government for updates and faster impact evaluations, international media has criticized the project for stalling, citing funding issues from China.

… Amid foreign media criticism, local residents have remained in the dark, with very little information…

Cheng Kimsong, a resident of Prek Ta Hing, the second section of the project located in Kandal province’s Koh Thom district, told … that so far, no authorities or ministry officials visited her family to assess their assets. She said everything was quiet, and all she could do was “wait and see”.

“I’m affected and don’t have a place to live. I don’t know what to do,” she said. “If they pay us well, we’ll wait and see where we can move to.”

… Hoeurn Samnieng, CDC Deputy Secretary-General, said the technical team has been measuring and determining the necessary steps to address the impacts of the project.

…, during the launch of the Council for the Development of Cambodia Investment Project Management System (cdcIPM), Chanthol reassured the public, stating that the “Funan Canal will be completed as planned or ahead of schedule”.

… The MRC told … that basic information was obtained through the notification process and was in regular communication with member countries in the Mekong, including Cambodia. The MRC expects further reports, such as the feasibility study report and other relevant documents as part of ongoing collaboration in accordance with established procedures…