Phnom Penh (FN), Nov. 26 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced the completion of land reclassification efforts around the Tonle Sap Lake, converting Zone 3 to Zone 2 to preserve the ecosystem of the lake for all Cambodians.
The premier spoke on Tuesday (Nov. 26) during the closing session of the 2024 annual meeting of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, “Say Sam Al recently reported the completion of this process. I want to clarify that this is not about border demarcation or adjustments. The reclassification involves moving Zone 2 to Zone 1 and Zone 3 to Zone 2. Tens of thousands of hectares have been reallocated, allowing people to gain usage rights from Zone 3 to Zone 2.”
Land reclassification around Tonle Sap Lake began in 2022, focusing on providing rights to residents who have lived and worked in the area for ten years or more. Over 80,000 hectares have been reclassified, giving people the right to use the land.
Samdech Thipadei continued, “We must make sacrifices for the common good. Let me stress that these areas are not for officials or authorities. The Tonle Sap belongs to millions of Cambodians and plays a critical role in preserving our ecosystem, biodiversity, and fisheries for future generations.”
On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei also called for strict inspection of the reclassified areas, ensuring that people retain usage rights but cannot sell or fully own the land. Authorities in the six provinces surrounding Tonle Sap Lake were urged to uphold these rules. He confirmed that once the boundary markings are complete, there will be no further adjustments.
Samdech Thipadei also urged need to support livelihoods in the Tonle Sap region. He suggested exploring industrial and special economic zones to create additional job opportunities for local residents.
The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction has been tasked by the Royal Government of Cambodia with leading the registration of land around Tonle Sap, encompassing both public and private lands. This effort aims to protect the flooded forests and ensure the sustainability of the entire lake. The land registration process has achieved the following results:
A. Zone 3: Flooded forest areas designated as protected state land. Land in Zone 3 has been registered as state land in Kampong Chhnang and Banteay Meanchey provinces.
B. Zone 2: Lowland areas flooded during the rainy season. Residents are granted usage rights to land for cultivation and family use (state land). Over 160,000 plots of land have been measured, representing 80 per cent of the estimated 200,000 plots.
C. Zone 1: Residential areas where private ownership is allowed. 760,000 plots of land have been measured, covering 88 per cent of the estimated 860,000 plots. 580,000 land titles have been issued to residents.
=FRESH NEWS
