Nearly 400 residents living and working around Siem Reap’s famous Pub Street and Old Market are urging local authorities to strengthen smoking controls in one of Cambodia’s busiest tourism districts. The petition, submitted to the Siem Reap Provincial Administration on July 22, 2026, calls for stricter enforcement of existing tobacco regulations or the creation of designated smoking areas. The initiative aims to protect public health while ensuring that the city’s tourism industry continues to thrive in a cleaner and more welcoming environment.
As Siem Reap attracts thousands of domestic and international visitors every evening, residents say secondhand smoke has become an increasing concern for workers, business owners, families, and tourists who do not smoke. Rather than opposing smokers, the community is asking for practical solutions that balance tourism, business activity, and public health, reinforcing Siem Reap’s vision of becoming a smart and environmentally friendly city.
Residents Seek Better Protection from Secondhand Smoke
The petition was signed by nearly 400 residents who live and work around Pub Street and the nearby Old Market. They are asking provincial authorities to either enforce Cambodia’s existing smoking ban more effectively or establish dedicated smoking zones to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.
According to the petition, smoking outside restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and along public walkways allows smoke to spread throughout the district, creating an uncomfortable environment for employees, local residents, and visitors alike. Community members believe better management would improve the overall experience for everyone while protecting public health.
Community Says the Issue Has Been Ignored for Too Long
Resident representative Pho Socheat explained that people working and living in the area have become increasingly frustrated by the widespread smoking that occurs outside entertainment venues every day.
“Pub Street is an entertainment area where many tourists smoke, but the secondhand smoke affects shop owners, workers, residents and visitors who do not smoke,” he said.
Although the Ministry of Health has instructed local authorities to enforce tobacco control regulations and educate the public about penalties for violations, Socheat said many businesses have yet to fully comply with the rules.
He noted that smoking has been a long standing concern in the area, but residents had never previously submitted a formal request to authorities. He emphasized that the petition is intended to encourage better management rather than criticize people who smoke.
“We don’t oppose people who smoke,” he said. “We oppose the impact their smoke has on other people’s health.”
Socheat also warned that prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke may contribute to respiratory illnesses, headaches, and dizziness, with pregnant women and young children facing the greatest health risks.
Workers Hope for Practical Solutions
Among those supporting the petition is Pov Sreyleap, who works at a spa on Pub Street. She said cigarette smoke drifting from a nearby bar has repeatedly caused her to experience a sore throat and nausea during working hours.
She joined hundreds of other residents by adding her thumbprint to the petition, expressing hope that provincial authorities will introduce practical measures that better protect workers, local residents, and visitors without disrupting tourism.
Supporters believe designated smoking areas would provide a balanced solution by allowing smokers to continue enjoying the district while reducing unnecessary exposure for everyone else.
Authorities Review the Proposal
Siem Reap Provincial Administration spokesperson Ly Vannak confirmed that officials are reviewing the residents’ request and considering possible solutions that support both public health and the tourism industry.
“We want to welcome tourists while also protecting the health of residents,” he said.
Authorities are expected to evaluate options that maintain Pub Street’s vibrant nightlife while creating a healthier environment for businesses, employees, residents, and visitors.
Cambodia Already Has a Smoking Ban
Cambodia already enforces tobacco control regulations through Sub Decree No. 43 on Measures to Ban Smoking and Tobacco Smoke Emissions in Workplaces and Public Places, issued on March 16, 2016. The law prohibits smoking in workplaces and public places to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.
Individuals who violate the smoking ban may face a fine of 20,000 riels, or approximately $5. Business owners and operators who fail to enforce the regulations can be fined 50,000 riels, or about $12.36, with penalties doubling for repeat violations.
What This Means for Businesses, Investors, and Tourism?
For business owners, investors, and tourism operators, the petition reflects a growing focus on creating healthier and more sustainable destinations. Cleaner public spaces can enhance visitor satisfaction, improve employee wellbeing, and strengthen Siem Reap’s reputation as a world class tourism destination.
As Cambodia continues investing in high quality tourism experiences, effective public health measures could further increase the city’s appeal to international travelers while supporting hospitality businesses, restaurants, hotels, spas, and retail operators that depend on a positive visitor experience.
Conclusion
The petition from nearly 400 Siem Reap residents highlights the growing demand for healthier public spaces in one of Cambodia’s most visited tourist destinations. Rather than seeking to ban smoking altogether, the community is calling for practical solutions that protect workers, residents, and visitors while preserving Pub Street’s vibrant atmosphere. If implemented thoughtfully, stronger smoking controls or designated smoking areas could enhance Siem Reap’s image as a modern, sustainable, and visitor friendly city, benefiting public health, local businesses, and the tourism industry alike.