Cambodia Commemorates Arbor Day with Tree Planting and Seedling Distribution

Kampong Chhnang Province, Cambodia – July 29, 2026 – A significant ceremony was held in Kampong Chhnang Province on July 28, 2026, to commemorate Arbor Day (Rukkhak Day). During the event, which saw the planting and distribution of approximately 10,000 diverse tree seedlings to citizens, Deputy Governor Chim Vutha highlighted the immense benefits of tree planting and the importance of preserving and developing forest and wildlife resources as a national heritage for future generations. The ceremony took place at Annavitthayalai Prehmoul Secondary School in Roluos Phier district and was attended by Ngin Hun, Director of the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, the government working group for provincial affairs, provincial council members, deputy governors, heads of surrounding units, city and district governors, local authorities, teachers, students, and a large number of citizens. Deputy Governor Chim Vutha stated that planting trees yields substantial benefits and that every citizen should embrace the tradition of collectively planting various tree species, as well as protecting and developing forest and wildlife resources, which are our national heritage, to ensure their perpetuity. Forests, he emphasized, serve as the green cover of nature and are beneficial to all humanity and all types of animals on Earth. He further noted that Arbor Day was established in 1952 under the royal initiative of His Majesty the King Father, Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, with the aim of promoting tree planting and protecting forest assets, particularly to foster a love for forests. He also mentioned that the United Nations established World Environment Day in 1972 to encourage citizens to cherish natural environments. In his address, the Deputy Governor appealed to monks, civil servants, armed forces, students, and all citizens to cultivate a love for trees and actively participate in planting, nurturing, and protecting forests and natural environments for the benefit of their own lives, their communities, wildlife, and biodiversity. He concluded by expressing gratitude to all relevant ministries, departments, institutions, authorities, law enforcement agencies, national and international associations, organizations, and development partners, as well as the citizens, for their efforts in preserving, protecting, and planting more trees across various locations. Source: AKP Khmer