In order to raise awareness of animal protection and attract both domestic and foreign tourists, Angkor Wildlife and Aquarium Co Ltd. has invested $18 million in a zoo in the province of Siem Reap. It will open in October.
At Kbon village, Khchas commune in Sotr Nikum district, the Angkor Wildlife and Aquarium is currently building the essential infrastructure for aquatic and wildlife conservation.
The facilities for the display and maintenance of aquatic species (freshwater fish, marine fish, and turtles) and terrestrial animals began in 2021, according to Angkor Wildlife and Aquarium. The project is 70% completed.
Enclosures for large wildlife species like tigers, elephants, and small bears, as well as for marine life from the sea and freshwater, as well as fish from the Amazon River, are also part of the ongoing construction. The zoo will also include a laboratory.
The company planned to submit applications for permission to import eight species, which amounts to 61 types of wildlife.
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of the Kingdom of Cambodia
The project is “very important,” according to Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries H.E Veng Sakhon, who visited the zoo construction site recently. Siem Reap is one of the Kingdom’s three economic pillars and is largely dependent on the tourism industry.
The zoo will serve as a conservation area for unique and vulnerable species of wildlife in Cambodia in addition to being a tourist attraction.
“We have supported and encouraged the professional team building the remaining infrastructure to complete in time for the inauguration ceremony.
To oversee animal conservation, care, and breeding, he said, “the zoo must also cooperate with the Forestry Administration and the Fisheries Administration.”
After Cambodia and its neighbouring nations reopened to tourism, this zoo project will be an appealing product and attract more tourists to Siem Reap.
Source: Khmer Times
