Cambodia is stepping up its commitment to sustainable tourism with the launch of the Cambodia Inland Ocean Festival at Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap province. Held on June 26 and 27, the two day event brought together government leaders, tourism professionals, community members, and environmental advocates to celebrate the country’s natural heritage while encouraging responsible travel. The festival also highlighted ongoing efforts to transform Kampong Khleang into a model plastic free tourism destination that supports local livelihoods and protects one of Southeast Asia’s most important freshwater ecosystems.
Organized by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the Siem Reap provincial administration, the celebration was held under the theme “Visit Cambodia’s Green Season for Kampong Khleang Community.” The initiative aimed to attract more visitors during the green season, raise awareness about environmental conservation, strengthen community based tourism, and demonstrate how sustainable tourism can contribute to long term economic development.
Festival Highlights Cambodia’s Green Tourism Vision
The Cambodia Inland Ocean Festival served as a platform to showcase the beauty of Tonle Sap Lake while promoting environmentally responsible tourism. Throughout the two day event, participants joined activities designed to encourage sustainable travel, reduce plastic waste, and strengthen cooperation among tourism stakeholders and local communities.
The opening ceremony welcomed several prominent officials, including Siem Reap Deputy Governor Ngov Sengkak, Ministry of Tourism Secretary of State Kuch Pannhasa, and Cambodia Association of Travel Agents President Chhay Sivlin. Their participation reflected the government’s growing focus on balancing tourism development with environmental protection and community wellbeing.
Tonle Sap Remains a Valuable Natural Treasure
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Ngov Sengkak emphasized that the festival supports the Royal Government’s broader strategy to expand green tourism and community based tourism as drivers of economic growth and improved living standards.
“This event carries deep significance because it not only showcases the rich natural beauty of Cambodia’s green season but also expresses appreciation for the immense value of Tonle Sap Lake,” Ngov Sengkak said.
He also highlighted the exceptional tourism potential of Tonle Sap Lake, noting that the floating villages, unique way of life, and abundant natural resources offer visitors authentic cultural and ecological experiences that cannot be found elsewhere in Cambodia.
Environmental Protection Takes Center Stage
While celebrating the lake’s beauty, officials also acknowledged the environmental pressures facing the region. Plastic pollution and the growing impacts of climate change continue to threaten the health of Tonle Sap and the communities that depend on it.
Ngov Sengkak stressed that protecting the lake requires cooperation from government agencies, businesses, local residents, and visitors alike. He called on everyone to work together to preserve Cambodia’s natural resources so future generations can continue to benefit from them.
Cleanup Campaign Removes Forty Tonnes of Plastic Waste
The festival also highlighted the progress of ongoing environmental initiatives in Kampong Khleang. According to BambooShoot Foundation President Sea Sophal, a cleanup campaign carried out between January and June removed approximately 40 tonnes of plastic waste from the commune.
Sea Sophal explained that the long term goal is to transform Kampong Khleang into a model plastic free tourism destination. Beyond improving environmental conditions, the initiative is expected to create new economic opportunities for local communities by attracting environmentally conscious travelers and supporting sustainable tourism businesses.
Readers can learn more about the original report from Khmer Times.
A Sustainable Future for Cambodia’s Tourism
The Cambodia Inland Ocean Festival represents more than a celebration of Tonle Sap Lake. It reflects the country’s growing commitment to protecting its natural environment while creating meaningful economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable tourism.
As Cambodia continues to promote green season travel and responsible tourism practices, destinations such as Kampong Khleang are emerging as examples of how conservation and community development can go hand in hand. By reducing plastic waste, preserving unique cultural traditions, and encouraging eco friendly travel, Cambodia is laying the foundation for a stronger and more sustainable tourism industry.