Cambodia Promotes Greening in Svay Rieng: Tree Planting for Sustainable SEZ Development and Environmental Protection

On the morning of September 20, 2026, a large-scale tree planting ceremony was held at the Chhloeuy Special Economic Zone in Svay Rieng province, presided over by His Excellency Dr. Men Sam An, a Senior Advisor to His Majesty the King. The event saw the planting of 2,200 saplings, with an additional 16,000 trees distributed to the eight districts across Svay Rieng province for further planting. This initiative aims to increase green cover within the province and contribute to the cherished national movement for nature restoration and conservation. The tree planting ceremony, themed "Plant Trees Together, Increase Green Cover, Enhance Environment, and Develop Special Economic Zones Sustainably," also seeks to reduce dust, smoke, and heat in industrial areas, fostering a conducive working environment and ecosystem. The event was attended by His Excellency Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment; His Excellency Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Council for the Development of Cambodia; His Excellency Peng Posa, Governor of Svay Rieng Province; Mr. Sin Paokor, General Director of Chhloeuy Special Economic Zone; along with numerous leaders, government officials, authorities, and local residents. According to a report by His Excellency Peng Posa, this tree planting activity demonstrates the joint commitment of both the state and private sectors to integrate economic development, industry, and investment with environmental protection. He emphasized that choosing between the economy and the environment is not an option, but rather, economic growth that does not harm the environment will drive investment for potential development. His Excellency Peng Posa also encouraged all Special Economic Zones in Svay Rieng province to collectively plant trees to increase green habitats and promote sustainable natural resources. He announced the provision of saplings to all Special Economic Zones in the province that require them for further planting. Speaking at the occasion, His Excellency Dr. Men Sam An conveyed warm greetings and regards from His Excellency Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the King's Supreme Advisory Council, President of the Senate, and President of the Cambodian People's Party; Her Excellency Dr. Bun Rany Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Red Cross; His Excellency Dr. Hun Manet, Prime Minister, and Her Excellency Dr. Pich Chanmony. She also expressed gratitude to His Excellency Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment, for providing the saplings, and to His Excellency Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, for facilitating with Mr. Sin Paokor, General Director of Chhloeuy Special Economic Zone. She commended the Provincial Administration, leaders, and all civil servants for their diligent cooperation with relevant units, authorities, and local residents in organizing this event. His Excellency Dr. Men Sam An further stated that planting trees and protecting forests is a form of self-help that can combat climate change, ensure safety from natural disasters, and provide hope for future generations. Simultaneously, tree planting has become a movement to increase green cover in Svay Rieng province, contributing to the promotion of a noble culture and a significant national movement in line with national policies for the restoration and conservation of sustainable natural resources. Source: CPP Cambodia