Kampot, a charming city in Cambodia, has once again garnered international recognition as an ASEAN Clean Tourist City for the 2024-2026 period. This accolade was announced during the prestigious ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024, which took place from January 22 to 27 in Vientiane, Laos. The forum, themed “Quality and Responsible ASEAN-Sustaining ASEAN Future,” saw participation from Tourism Ministers and Leaders from the ASEAN bloc, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, and other partnering countries and organizations.
The Cambodian delegation at the forum was spearheaded by Sok Soken, the Minister of Tourism, who represented the nation’s commitment to enhancing its tourism sector. The ASEAN Tourism Forum serves as a significant platform for discussing and promoting tourism initiatives within the region.
The ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard (ACTCS) is a pivotal initiative by ASEAN to elevate the quality of tourism in member cities, enhance their marketability, and importantly, improve the lives of the local residents by mitigating poverty. The award to Kampot city underscores the city’s dedication to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, sustainability, and environmental preservation, making it a model for other cities in the region.
The ASEAN Tourism Awards, an integral part of the annual forum, celebrate localities and entities that exhibit excellence in tourism services and products. Categories for these awards include the ASEAN Green Hotel, ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award, ASEAN MICE Venue Award, and the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award (Gastronomy), among others. These awards play a crucial role in fostering a competitive yet sustainable tourism industry within the ASEAN region.
Kampot city’s recognition as an ASEAN Clean Tourist City not only brings pride to Cambodia but also places the city on the map as a leading destination for tourists seeking sustainable and responsible travel experiences. The award is a testament to the collective efforts of the local government, communities, and businesses in Kampot who are committed to preserving the city’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while ensuring a clean and welcoming environment for all visitors.
As ASEAN countries continue to strive for sustainable and inclusive tourism growth, the achievements of cities like Kampot serve as inspiring examples of what can be accomplished through dedication and collaborative efforts. The recognition of Kampot city at the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 is a significant milestone in Cambodia’s tourism journey, signaling a bright future for the sector in the region.
