• My Saves
  • My Feed
  • My Interests
  • Governing Body
  • From The Founder's Desk
  • Contact Us
The Better Cambodia
  • News
    NewsShow More
    H.E. Deputy Prime Minister PRAK Sokhonn Attends ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with China in Kuala Lumpur
    Cambodia Engages in ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Interface and SEANWFZ Commission Meeting in Kuala Lumpur

    KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA — His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn, Minister…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia, ERIA Strengthen Healthcare Ties Through Scholarship and Innovation Partnerships
    Cambodia, ERIA Strengthen Healthcare Ties Through Scholarship and Innovation Partnerships

    PHNOM PENH — H.E. Prof. Koy Vanny, Secretary of State at Cambodia’s…

    By
    TBC
    Arbor Day Celebrated with Renewed National Commitment to Forest Protection and Reforestation
    Arbor Day Celebrated with Renewed National Commitment to Forest Protection and Reforestation

    KAMPONG CHAM, CAMBODIA — Cambodia marked Arbor Day with a strong reaffirmation…

    By
    TBC
    India’s Minister of State Highlights Human Capital Partnership with Cambodia at Alumni Interaction
    India’s Minister of State Highlights Human Capital Partnership with Cambodia at Alumni Interaction

    PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA — July 9, 2025 — Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister…

    By
    TBC
    PM Inaugurates School Facilities in Kampong Speu Province, Highlights Education as Driver of Development
    PM Inaugurates School Facilities in Kampong Speu Province, Highlights Education as Driver of Development

    KAMPONG SPEU, CAMBODIA — July 9, 2025 — Prime Minister Samdech Moha…

    By
    TBC
  • Editors Pick
    Editors PickShow More
    Cambodia’s Steady Commitment to Peace and Law in the Face of Border Challenges

    In recent days, changes along the Cambodia–Thailand border have drawn regional attention.…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Fiscal Discipline Builds Confidence for Growth and Investment

    Cambodia is steadily earning a reputation for sound financial management and disciplined…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Trade Resilience: Turning U.S. Tariff Hikes into Regional Growth Opportunities
    Cambodia’s Trade Resilience: Turning U.S. Tariff Hikes into Regional Growth Opportunities

    On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariff increases…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Rise as a Manufacturing and Investment Hub: A Global Perspective

    In recent years, Cambodia has emerged as a preferred destination for manufacturing…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

    Cambodia is taking remarkable strides towards environmental conservation, as demonstrated by the…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • Stories
    StoriesShow More
    The Timeless Tale of Vorvong and Sorvong: A Glimpse into Khmer Folklore

    The epic Khmer folklore of Vorvong and Sorvong stands out, weaving a…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Empowering Cambodian Youth: Anjali House’s Mission to Shape Futures

    In the heart of Siem Reap, Anjali House, a community learning center…

    By
    Nadalena DeJulio
    Life’s Journey: A Bike Ride Around Tonle Sap Lake

    In a remarkable display of strength and determination, Pheak Keo embarked on…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Phare Creative Studio: 15 Years of Cambodian Creations for Social Good

    Phare Creative Studio (PCS) is a social business that has been operating…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Dieng Dorm: The Muffin Man of Siem Reap

    Have you ever heard of the Muffin Man, SiemReap? He lives in…

    By
    Pisey Roeurm
  • Business
    BusinessShow More
    Starbucks Isn’t Just Brewing Coffee It’s Running a Bank in Disguise

    When you think of Starbucks, you probably imagine friendly baristas, cozy interiors,…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    PM Hun Manet Reinforces Pro-Business, Pro-Environment Agenda at Ford Plant Opening

    PURSAT, April 22 – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reiterated…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia’s Economy to Grow by 6.1% in 2025 and 6.2% in 2026, Says ADB Report
    Cambodia’s Economy to Grow by 6.1% in 2025 and 6.2% in 2026, Says ADB Report

    Phnom Penh, Apr. 9 – Cambodia’s economy is set to maintain a…

    By
    TBC
    EU and IFAD Announce €80 Million Investment to Modernise Cambodia’s Agricultural Sector
    EU and IFAD Announce €80 Million Investment to Modernise Cambodia’s Agricultural Sector

    The European Union (EU), in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB)…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia’s Rise as a Manufacturing and Investment Hub: A Global Perspective

    In recent years, Cambodia has emerged as a preferred destination for manufacturing…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • Opinion Piece
    Opinion PieceShow More
    Wastewater Treatment – The Lifeline of Sustainable Development

    In the 21st century, the world faces a paradox. While more than…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Automotive Rise: A New Chapter in Industrial Transformation

    Over the past few decades, Cambodia has undergone a remarkable transition from…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    How Cambodian Entrepreneurs Can Successfully Set Up a Business in the United Kingdom, A Strategic Guide to Growth and Bilateral Benefits

    The United Kingdom continues to be a global leader in business, innovation,…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Trade Framework: A Gateway to Global Markets

    Over the past two decades, Cambodia has methodically established a robust regulatory…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Cashew Industry, A Future of Growth and Prosperity

    Cambodia’s agricultural sector is experiencing a strong rise in cashew production, making…

    By
    Jas Sohl
  • Press Release
    Press ReleaseShow More
    The French Institute of Cambodia and OCIC Group: A Creative Alliance for Culture
    The French Institute of Cambodia and OCIC Group: A Creative Alliance for Culture

    Phnom Penh, July 2025 — The Institut français du Cambodge (French Institute…

    By
    TBC
    Ucare Expands Footprint With New Pharmacies at the Techo International Airport and in Koh Pich
    Ucare Expands Footprint With New Pharmacies at the Techo International Airport and in Koh Pich

    June 2025, Koh Pich, Phnom Penh – Ucare Pharmacy, Cambodia’s leading pharmaceutical…

    By
    TBC
    Wing Bank Launches a Branch in Koh Kong
    Wing Bank Launches a Branch in Koh Kong

    Wing Bank (Cambodia) Plc has further expanded its nationwide presence with the…

    By
    TBC
    Techo International Airport Welcomes Business Delegation Led by French Ambassador
    Techo International Airport Welcomes Business Delegation Led by French Ambassador

    Phnom Penh, June 8, 2025 - The future Techo International Airport (TIA)…

    By
    TBC
    CIMB Singapore and Wing Bank Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Cross-Border Financial Services Between Singapore and Cambodia
    CIMB Singapore and Wing Bank Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Cross-Border Financial Services Between Singapore and Cambodia

    CIMB Singapore and Wing Bank (Cambodia) Plc have entered a strategic partnership…

    By
    TBC
  • Visit Cambodia
    Visit CambodiaShow More
    Cambodia Trials Digital v-Pass System to Streamline Immigration Process
    Cambodia Trials Digital v-Pass System to Streamline Immigration Process

    The General Department of Immigration (GDI) under the Ministry of Interior has…

    By
    TBC
    Ta Moan Thom Temple
    Ta Moan Thom Temple Attracts Surge of Visitors in Northern Cambodia

    Oddar Meanchey – June 24, 2025: Ta Moan Thom Temple, an ancient…

    By
    TBC
    Tourism in Cambodia Surges 13.6% with Over 2 Million Visitors in First Four Months of 2025
    Tourism in Cambodia Surges 13.6% with Over 2 Million Visitors in First Four Months of 2025

    Phnom Penh, Cambodia — Despite persistent global uncertainties surrounding geopolitics, economic fluctuations,…

    By
    TBC
    Stung Treng to Host Inaugural Dolphin Festival and Kayak Races
    Stung Treng to Host Inaugural Dolphin Festival and Kayak Races This Weekend

    Stung Treng, Cambodia – In a move to boost sustainable tourism and…

    By
    TBC
    Visak Bochea Day in Cambodia
    Visak Bochea Day in Cambodia: Sacred Ceremony Held at Oudong’s Buddha Stupa

    Oudong, Kandal Province – May 11, 2025: Cambodia observed Visak Bochea Day…

    By
    TBC
  • History
    HistoryShow More
    Jayarajadevi: The Compassionate Queen Who Helped Shape the Khmer Empire’s Golden Age

    Queen Jayarajadevi, the first consort of the great Khmer ruler Jayavarman VII,…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Hariharalaya: Cradle of the Khmer Empire

    Situated near present-day Siem Reap in Cambodia’s Roluos region, the ancient city…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia Discovers 67 Fossil Sites in 13 Provinces, Including First Dinosaur Bone
    Cambodia Discovers 67 Fossil Sites in 13 Provinces, Including Its First-Ever Dinosaur Bone

    Major Discovery Highlights the Kingdom’s Ancient Natural Heritage

    By
    TBC
    Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries in Cambodia Since 2000 – Unearthing the Kingdom’s Hidden Treasures

    Cambodia, a land of ancient wonders and rich cultural heritage, has been…

    By
    TBC
    Khmer Script
    Decoding the Cambodian Alphabet (Khmer Script) – One of the World’s Most Intricate Scripts

    The Cambodian alphabet, widely known as the Khmer script, is not just…

    By
    TBC
  • 🔥
  • Invest In Cambodia
  • Unsung Heroes/ Impact
  • The Better Asia
  • Agriculture
  • Technology
  • Places to Visit
  • Sustainability
Font ResizerAa
The Better CambodiaThe Better Cambodia
Search
  • Home
  • Stories
  • News
  • Startups
  • Cambodian Brands
  • Unsung Heroes/ Impact
  • Sustainability
  • Artisans of Cambodia
  • Invest In Cambodia
  • Guests Posts
  • The Better Asia
  • Governing Body
  • From The Founder’s Desk
  • Contact us
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
  • My Saves
  • My Interests
  • My Feed
© 2025 TBC Media. All Rights Reserved.
The Better Cambodia > Blog > Invest In Cambodia > Business > Economy > Angkor Plywood Group: Leading Sustainable Development and Community Empowerment
BusinessEconomy

Angkor Plywood Group: Leading Sustainable Development and Community Empowerment

Surya Narayan
Last updated: June 26, 2024 4:31 am
Surya Narayan
174 Views
Share
8 Min Read
SHARE

Angkor Plywood Group, led by the visionary Lu Chu-Chang, stands for sustainable development, community upliftment, and ethical business practices in Cambodia. Founded with a deep respect for nature and a strong commitment to local communities, this company has become a model of responsible forestry. 

By aligning its operations with global standards, Angkor Plywood Group significantly contributes to the socio-economic development of the region. The company’s dedication to ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship, combined with its focus on providing sustainable employment opportunities, ensures the protection of Cambodia’s natural habitats and supports the well-being of local communities. Through its comprehensive approach, Angkor Plywood Group exemplifies how businesses can drive positive change and foster sustainable growth.

Commitment to Sustainability and Ethical Practices

Angkor Plywood Group’s operations are rooted in sustainable forestry practices that comply with the stringent requirements of the Lacey Act in the United States and the European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR). These regulations mandate that timber and wood products entering the market must be sourced legally, and Angkor Plywood Group takes pride in its adherence to these laws. By legally sourcing its raw materials, the company ensures that its operations do not contribute to illegal logging, thereby protecting Cambodia’s precious natural habitats.

Lu Chu-Chang, Managing Director of Angkor Plywood Group, shares his insights, “We must consider where the seedlings come from. I set up a tissue culture laboratory and nursery in Kampong Thom to ensure we have qualified seedlings to plant in Kratie.” This meticulous approach underscores the company’s commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship.

- Advertisement -

Supporting Local Communities

Angkor Plywood Group’s influence extends beyond environmental sustainability; it is deeply invested in the well-being of local communities. The company’s plantation in Kratie Province employs 196 local workers, many of whom previously relied on illegal logging for income. By providing sustainable employment opportunities, Angkor Plywood Group not only supports families but also contributes to the preservation of protected forests.

“Before, the people did not know what to do, but now they are happy to join us in this project. They no longer need to engage in illegal logging because they have a good chance to find stable employment,” Lu Chu-Chang explains.

The company’s factory in Kampong Cham, which processes logs into veneers, employs 579 workers. These jobs provide stable incomes and skill development opportunities for the local population, further enhancing community prosperity.

Aligning with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Angkor Plywood Group’s operations are in harmony with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 17, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development. The company collaborates with international organizations to ensure that its practices meet global standards, thereby fostering partnerships that promote ethical business practices and environmental conservation.

Lu Chu-Chang’s vision includes significant social contributions. “I have two visions: one is to set up a big hospital, and the other is to establish a big school. We strive to improve not only our company but also the entire community,” he asserts. This commitment to social infrastructure underscores the company’s holistic approach to development.

Technological Innovation and Skill Development

Recognizing the importance of technology and skilled labor, Angkor Plywood Group has established a tissue culture laboratory and nursery. This facility produces high-quality seedlings, ensuring the sustainability of its plantations. The company also invests in training local workers to operate specialized machinery, thus enhancing their technical skills and employability.

“We set up a factory to make veneer and train local workers to operate the machines. This skill development is crucial for their future,” says Lu Chu-Chang. By empowering the local workforce with technical knowledge, the company contributes to long-term community development.

Compliance with Cambodian Law

Angkor Plywood Group’s operations are fully compliant with Cambodian laws and regulations. The company’s ethical practices and legal sourcing of timber align with national policies aimed at conserving Cambodia’s forests and promoting sustainable economic growth. By adhering to these laws, Angkor Plywood Group sets a benchmark for other companies in the region.

Enhancing Local Infrastructure

The company’s contributions to local infrastructure are noteworthy. Angkor Plywood Group has built roads in the communities where it operates, facilitating better access and mobility. These roads, while initially aiding the company’s logistics, also benefit the local population by improving connectivity and access to markets.

Furthermore, Angkor Plywood Group has established a clinic and a kindergarten school, providing essential services to the community. The clinic offers free medical assistance, enhancing healthcare access for local residents. The kindergarten school, staffed by teachers from Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia, offers quality education to children, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

“We do everything for the people. Our clinic and school are open to all, not just our employees. This is our way of giving back to the community,” states Lu Chu-Chang.

Waste Management and Environmental Responsibility

Angkor Plywood Group’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in its waste management practices. The company ensures that nothing goes to waste. Offcuts from the plantation are provided to locals for firewood, while waste materials from the factory are processed into pellets used as fuel for local power stations. This approach minimizes waste and contributes to local energy needs.

“At Think Biotech, nothing goes to waste. Our waste materials are processed into pellets, providing fuel for local power stations. This is part of our commitment to environmental sustainability,” explains Lu Chu-Chang.

A Model for Sustainable and Inclusive Development

Angkor Plywood Group, under the stewardship of Lu Chu-Chang, exemplifies how businesses can drive sustainable development while fostering community well-being. The company’s adherence to ethical practices, alignment with global standards, and commitment to local communities make it a leading example of responsible business in Cambodia.

As Lu Chu-Chang aptly puts it, “We strive to grow together with the community, ensuring that our success also brings prosperity to those around us.” This philosophy not only drives the company’s success but also sets a powerful example for sustainable and inclusive development.

Angkor Plywood Group’s operations are a perfect alignment of business acumen with ethical practices, contributing significantly to the socio-economic fabric of Cambodia while adhering to global standards. The company’s initiatives resonate with the principles of SDG 17, highlighting the power of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. Through its commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and ethical practices, Angkor Plywood Group is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for Cambodia.

Sign Up For Daily Newsletter

Be keep up! Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.

Sign up for The Better Cambodia's newsletter to receive the latest articles and stories. Stay informed and inspired with our positive content!

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any buzzstream.
Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp LinkedIn Telegram Email Copy Link Print
BySurya Narayan
Follow:
Founder at The Better Cambodia | Communication Advisor to the Minister attached to the Prime Minister of Cambodia | Marketing Director at True North Lean
Previous Article Celebrating Culinary Diplomacy: Khmer Konnection Brings Cambodian Flavors to Bangalore, India
Next Article Promoting the Future of Education in Cambodia’s Digital Era: Prime Minister Hun Manet’s Vision
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

- Advertisement -

You Might Also Like

BusinessInvest In CambodiaVisa Info

How to Obtain Cambodian Citizenship: Requirements and Procedures Explained

By
Surya Narayan
BusinessInvest In CambodiaNews

Cambodia’s Foreign Trade Shows Signs of Recovery Amid Global Economic Turbulence

By
Surya Narayan
ASEANBusinessCambodiaGuests Posts

Lean Management: A Strategy for Cambodian Banks to Save Money, Satisfy Customers and Stay Competitive

By
Vijay Allaham
BusinessNews

US Continues to be Cambodia’s Largest Export Market

By
Surya Narayan
© 2025 TBC Media. All Rights Reserved.
  • Home
  • News
  • About Cambodia
    • Provinces of Cambodia
  • Tours
  • Things to Do
    • Adventure
    • Events
    • Festivals
    • Fun & Games
    • Landmarks
    • Markets
    • Museums
    • Parks
    • Shopping
    • Shows
    • Temples
    • Villages
    • Water Fun
    • Wildlife
    • Workshops
    • Zoos & Aquariums
  • Eat & Drink
    • Khmer Cuisine
    • Bars & Pubs
    • Cafés & Bakeries
    • Fine Dining
    • Street Food
  • Natural Attractions
    • Beaches
    • Botanical Sites
    • Caves
    • Cliffs & Rock Formations
    • Coral Reefs
    • Forests
    • Hot Springs
    • Islands
    • Lakes
    • Mountains
    • Parks
    • Rivers
    • Scenic Spots
    • Waterfalls
    • Wetlands
    • Wildlife Areas
  • Services
  • Travel Guide
  • Stays
    • Boutique Stays
    • Eco Lodges
    • Guesthouses
    • Homestays
    • Hotels
    • Resorts
No thanks.
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?

Not a member? Sign Up