Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet recently addressed key developments in national initiatives and acknowledged significant contributions from the business community during a gala dinner with the Cambodian Oknha Association and the Housing Development Association of Cambodia on Friday, August 2.
Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed profound gratitude to the 1,432 Neak Oknha, Oknha, and dignitaries for their relentless support and engagement in social, humanitarian, and charitable activities, particularly noted during the COVID-19 outbreak. He emphasized that such collective efforts have not only addressed immediate community needs but also bolstered the economic fabric of Cambodia, essential for job creation and overall national prosperity.
During the event, Premier Hun Manet celebrated the ongoing commitment of these figures, who have greatly aided the Royal Government’s initiatives. Contributions include supporting the Cambodian Red Cross, funding demining operations, aiding the Samdech Techo Voluntary Youth Doctors Association (TYDA), and even constructing educational and cultural facilities such as the school building at Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University and the Samdech Pin Sem Museum.
Highlighting the intrinsic value of the private sector, Samdech Thipadei noted that such partnership and active participation from business leaders are crucial for sustaining economic stability and growth, ensuring Cambodia navigates both prosperous times and challenges effectively.
In the same gathering, the Prime Minister announced a significant update regarding tourism and cultural preservation efforts at the Angkor Archaeological Park. Moving forward, certain types of photography in the park will no longer require a license or permission from the APSARA Authority. This decision emerges from an awareness of outdated principles in the existing Code of Conduct that impede both the livelihoods of local residents and the visitor experience at the park.
The APSARA Authority’s officials, who play a pivotal role in preserving the character and cultural values of the temple sites, will continue their efforts but with adapted guidelines. New policies will distinguish between personal and commercial photographic activities, allowing tourists greater freedom to capture their experiences for non-commercial purposes, including wearing national dress in photos to respect cultural diversity.
Although permission for commercial filming remains a requisite, the Premier assured that the revamped guidelines aim to make the process more straightforward, reflecting modern recreational needs and technological advancements in photography. All national and international media outlets are still required to seek approval for filming but will not be charged any fees.
Additionally, Premier Hun Manet emphasized the importance of a clear code of conduct for photography at the park, ensuring that while personal freedoms are respected, they do not disrupt the overall tourist experience or compromise the site’s sanctity.
Through these initiatives, Prime Minister Hun Manet continues to strengthen community support structures and tap into the potential of Cambodia’s cultural heritage as a cornerstone for sustainable tourism and national development.
Source: Fresh News
