Gov’t Announces Over 125 ha in Prey Veng as Natural Heritage Gem

• Sommana Yan
• 7 August 2023
• Local News
• 3672 Views

In a remarkable move to safeguard the nation’s cultural and natural treasures, the Government of Cambodia has officially designated a sprawling expanse of 125,275.75 hectares in Prey Veng province as the illustrious “Nokor Phnom Chheu Kach Ba Phnom” natural heritage site. This proclamation, detailed in Sub-Decree No. 224 issued on 3 August 2023, underscores the government’s commitment to conserving and highlighting the historical significance and biodiversity of the region.

Embracing the legacy of the ancient Funan period, “Nokor Phnom,” the first territory of Cambodia, has been meticulously identified across nine distinct locations in Cheung Phnom commune, Chheu Karch commune, and Rong Damrey commune in Ba Phnom district. These sites encapsulate a unique blend of historical, cultural, and natural riches, enshrining the legacy of a bygone era.

The nine identified locations within “Nokor Phnom Chheu Kach Ba Phnom” are veritable treasures in their own right, ranging from sacred sanctuaries to pristine landscapes:

1. Phnom Ba Phnom – Covering an expansive area of 101.4119 hectares, this prominent peak forms a central pillar of the natural heritage site.
2. Angkor Chan Temple – Encompassing 0.6385 hectares, this revered temple site resonates with echoes of the past.
3. Wat Vihear Kuk – Nestled over 1.3642 hectares, this cultural enclave stands as a testament to historical continuity.
4. Wat Vihear Thom – Spanning 3.1451 hectares, this sacred space is a repository of ancient wisdom and spirituality.
5. Closed Rice Pond – Sprawling across 8.0607 hectares, this agricultural relic evokes the heritage of sustainable farming.
6. Neak Ta Mesor – Encompassing 0.7812 hectares, this site holds cultural significance as a revered deity sanctuary.
7. Srah Srong – Enriching the landscape with an area of 1.5816 hectares, this body of water resonates with historical narratives.
8. Phnom Wat Kampoul Phnom Chheu Kach – Spreading over 2.5264 hectares, this landmark fuses natural and cultural magnificence.
9. Small Mountain Monastic Centre – Engaging an area of 5.7679 hectares, this sanctuary is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of man and nature.

The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts are poised to collaboratively manage and oversee the stewardship of “Nokor Phnom Chheu Kach Ba Phnom.” This effort will involve close cooperation with relevant ministries, institutions, Prey Veng Provincial Administration, and local communities. With environmental preservation and biodiversity conservation as guiding principles, this partnership will integrate the sustainable utilisation of natural resources and cultural heritage protection in compliance with prevailing laws and regulations.

The establishment of a permanent working group within Prey Veng Provincial Administration has been announced. This interdisciplinary team, comprising various departments and local authorities, will play a pivotal role in leading the charge to nurture, safeguard, and develop the natural heritage of “Nokor Phnom Chheu Kach Ba Phnom.” Upholding the essence of the region’s history and ecological balance, this strategic initiative echoes the nation’s resolute commitment to its rich legacy.

• land development and policy