Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve (TSBR) is vital to Cambodia’s economy, supporting fisheries, aquaculture, and agriculture. Fishing remains the main income for many families in floating communities, while nutrient-rich floodplains enable rice and vegetable cultivation.
The newly launched Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 aims to safeguard the reserve’s ecological integrity and support sustainability for future generations. The plan provides a comprehensive framework to enhance governance, restore and conserve ecosystems, support sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen climate and environmental resilience.
According to UNESCO Representative to Cambodia Flavio Bonetti, the plan aligns with the Man and the Biosphere Programme, promoting harmony between human development and biodiversity conservation. Tonle Sap was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997 and recognized by Royal Decree in 2001. The plan also aligns with key national frameworks, including the Pentagonal Strategy – Phase I, Circular Strategy on Environment 2023–2028, Long-Term Strategy for Carbon Neutrality, Natural Protected Area Strategic Management Plan 2017–2031, and Cambodia Environmental Diplomacy Strategy 2026–2030.
Her Excellency Mom Thany, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Environment, called the Strategic Plan a historic achievement and a roadmap for collective protection and management of the reserve. The development process was inclusive, involving ministries, national institutions, provincial administrations, universities, development partners, and local communities.
Deputy Governor of Kampong Thom Province Chea Vanchan expressed appreciation to all participants and thanked the organizers for choosing Kampong Thom Province as the event host.