Svay Rieng Province Promotes Greening, Engages Communities for Forest Protection and Environmental Awareness

On the morning of Monday, August 3, 2026, the 9th Tree Planting Festival of 2026 was held at Wat Kdey Kandal, located in Kandal Village, Svay Chek Commune, Rumduol District, Svay Rieng Province. The ceremony was presided over by H.E. Peng Porsarth, Governor of Svay Rieng Province, and H.E. Bun Savann, Member of the Provincial Council, representing H.E. Men Vibol, President of the Provincial Council. In his address, H.E. the Governor expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, particularly the Svay Rieng Forestry Administration. Over the past six months of 2026, the department has diligently fulfilled its duties by actively cultivating and distributing various types of saplings to pagodas, schools, and local residents, numbering in the thousands. Today, in addition to planting 770 saplings on approximately 2 hectares of land, the department also brought approximately 540 saplings to distribute to the public. H.E. the Governor further stated that the Tree Planting Festival is not a new event but a noble cultural tradition that dates back to the Sangkum Reastr Niyum era in 1952. During that time, His Majesty the King Father of Independence, Norodom Sihanouk, the most revered King, consistently encouraged and presided over Tree Planting Festivals in various provinces. This tradition has continued to the present day with the aim of promoting tree planting, preserving forest resources, and fostering a love for forests and the natural environment among the populace. It serves to remind all citizens of the virtues of planting trees and to encourage them to plant trees wherever there is available land, including in the pagodas where the event is being held. On this occasion, H.E. the Governor appealed to all levels of local authorities, all types of armed forces, citizens, and all relevant parties to: - Jointly prevent all forest crimes, illegal encroachment, clearing, seizure, and fencing of forests for illegal private ownership. Take immediate responsibility and implement legal measures when such incidents occur in their respective areas. In particular, properly organize and manage the registration of community forests. Relevant departments such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environment, and Department of Land Management should support this work. - Relevant ministries, departments, and local authorities should continue to monitor developments and regularly disseminate information to the public about the consequences of climate change. They should also prepare necessary interventions and rescue measures for emergencies. Citizens are urged to exercise high vigilance and pay attention to conserving water resources. - Continue to comply with traffic laws, educate children to stay away from all types of drugs, participate in maintaining and promoting environmental hygiene in villages, communes, and districts to ensure cleanliness and aesthetic beauty. Be cautious and protect children from various infectious diseases, especially dengue fever. Information Source: CPP Cambodia