In Kampot province, Cambodia’s coastal fishing communities are seeing a remarkable transformation as stronger environmental protection, better cooperation, and growing eco tourism continue to improve local livelihoods. Communities such as Kampong Samaki, Prek Thnout, and Trapaeng Sangke are now attracting both local and international visitors while helping residents earn more stable incomes from fishing and tourism related activities.
Surrounded by mangrove forests and rich marine ecosystems, these communities have become examples of how sustainable resource management can create long term economic opportunities. Officials say the combined efforts of local residents, authorities, and development partners are helping preserve biodiversity while turning Kampot into an increasingly popular eco tourism destination.
Strong cooperation drives better fishing yields
Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted the success of Kampot’s fishing communities in a recent social media post, noting that local people have strengthened both their fishing production and tourism potential through collective action.
“This success stems from strong collaboration between relevant authorities and local communities in preventing crime and effectively conserving natural resources,” he said.
He also pointed to infrastructure improvements supported by the Royal Government, which have made the area more attractive to travelers seeking nature based experiences. Tourists visiting the communities can now enjoy activities such as fishing, crab catching, and collecting shellfish while experiencing the peaceful coastal environment.
Fishing incomes continue to rise
According to Kampong Samaki Community Fishery President Sok Kao, conservation efforts and improved management have led to healthier biodiversity and larger fishing yields. Fishermen in the community now earn around 100,000 riels, or about $25, per day on average.
“If we compare the past to the present, there is an improvement. Previously, fishing yields were low because there were no proper management laws. However, after we organised ourselves as a community, with support from relevant institutions and stakeholders, our fishing yields have increased,” said Kao.
He added that protecting natural resources remains essential not only for current livelihoods but also for future generations who will depend on sustainable fishing.
Eco tourism creates new opportunities
Beyond fishing, tourism has become another important source of income for residents. Communities now sell fresh seafood directly to visitors while offering local food experiences and eco tours that showcase Kampot’s coastal beauty.
Kao explained that the government and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries have continued supporting local communities through training programs, farming knowledge, and infrastructure development aimed at improving living standards.
At Prek Thnout Community Fishery, President Ouk Sovannarith said tourism growth has benefited both residents and local fishermen. Visitors can take boat tours to explore dolphins, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and manatees while enjoying freshly prepared seafood from the community.
He added, “The National Fisheries Administration, provincial authorities, and partner organisations have placed more than 300 artificial habitats in our community to help preserve aquatic resources and maintain a healthy habitat for marine biodiversity.”
Fewer people leaving their villages
In Trapaeng Sangke Community Fishery, local leaders say the improvements are already changing people’s lives. Community President Sim Him explained that stronger fishery resources and tourism income have reduced migration as more residents are now able to earn a living in their hometowns.
“For tourism services, we provide food prepared from fishing products purchased from local fishermen, which helps improve livelihoods and create employment opportunities,” he said.
The community also reinvests its funds into conservation work to ensure fishery resources remain sustainable for everyone.
Authorities continue supporting conservation
Deputy Head of the Kampot Provincial Fisheries Administration Tum Sopheap said officials are continuing to strengthen cooperation with fishing communities and local authorities to protect marine resources and enforce fisheries laws.
She noted that technical experts regularly work with communities whenever challenges arise, helping provide guidance and practical solutions for sustainable resource management.
For local fisherman Pou Hak from Kampong Samaki, the impact is already visible. He now earns between 80,000 and 100,000 riels per day from catching sea clams, allowing him to better support his family while remaining in his community.
Conclusion
Kampot’s fishing communities are proving that environmental conservation and economic growth can go hand in hand. Through teamwork, sustainable resource management, and eco tourism development, residents are earning higher incomes while preserving the natural beauty that attracts visitors from around the world. As these communities continue to grow, they are becoming an important model for sustainable tourism and rural development in Cambodia.