Cambodia Launches 'Friendship Village' for Sustainable Community Development

On September 19, 2026, Cambodia officially launched the 'Friendship Village' project, a comprehensive initiative aimed at fostering sustainable community development. Located within the Trapaing Pikar Forest Community, this area has been developed as a hub for diversified agriculture and tourism services, symbolizing solidarity, cooperation, trust, and the collective effort to build a sustainable community. The khai trương ceremony was presided over by H.E. Sok Sokhen, Minister of Interior and Head of the Working Group for the Royal Government's Local Base in Romeas Hek District. He emphasized that the workshop leading to this launch was a crucial step in harmonizing natural resource conservation, governance strengthening, and local economic development, transforming discussions into tangible actions. H.E. Sokhen expressed his gratitude to Ms. Chom Krasna, Chairperson of Soma Initiative of Soma Group, and its subsidiaries for their pioneering idea and continuous, active support for community development. He also lauded the Community Forest Management Committee, local authorities, the local base working group, partner organizations, youth, and all citizens for their dedication and hard work in organizing the workshop and contributing to the community's achievements. To conclude, the Minister provided key recommendations to the Community Committee, including strengthening cooperation with stakeholders, prioritizing action plans, maintaining solidarity, reinforcing internal governance, and operating in compliance with existing laws and regulations. He stressed the importance of jointly preserving and managing the community's assets sustainably for future generations. This 'Friendship Village' initiative is seen as part of Cambodia's broader strategy to promote the sustainable utilization of local resources and improve the livelihoods of its residents. It highlights a development model that emphasizes active community participation and collaboration with the private sector.