Wednesday January 4, 2023
The Phnom Penh Post —
Authorities involved in the management of the Tonle Sap Lake area will continue to suppress fisheries crimes in the area, following a “successful” 2022 with their enforcement campaigns leading to an increase in fisheries production over the preceding year.
In November 2021, Prime Minister Hun Sen ordered authorities around the lake to cooperate more closely to end the clearance of flooded forest land and protect the area’s natural resources, including fish sanctuaries.
Mao Hak, deputy secretary-general of the Tonle Sap Authority, told The Post on January 3 that the government has increased the measures that are in place to prevent natural resource crimes and protect the flooded forests.
“In 2022, the general situation around the lake has improved, with water levels returning to normal.
“Fish yields have recently increased, a clear indicator that the efforts of local authorities are working. In 2023, there are plans to introduce further mechanisms that will build on our successes,” he said.