(Kampong Cham): Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni commended the Royal Government of Cambodia for its continued organisation of the annual “Arbor Day” ceremony under the wise, capable, and dedicated leadership of former Prime Minister Hun Sen and his successor, current Prime Minister Hun Manet.
In his royal speech during the Arbor Day event, the king praised the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk for initiating the Arbor Day tradition during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum era as a national movement. This initiative aimed to inspire future generations to cherish, protect, and restore forests by planting trees throughout the country.
The king also thanked Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina, along with the ministry's leadership and civil servants, for their dedication to agricultural development. He commended their efforts in ensuring food security, improving farmers' livelihoods, alleviating poverty, and developing rural communities. All contributing toward Cambodia’s long-term goal of becoming a high-income country by 2050.
King Norodom Sihamoni emphasised that the importance of forest and wildlife conservation as a pillar of environmental sustainability and national economic resilience. This commitment aligns with the Royal Government’s Pentagonal Strategy Phase I, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet.
His Majesty described Arbor Day as a noble tradition and vital national movement aligned with Cambodia’s environmental policy, aimed at sustainably preserving and enhancing natural resources, especially forests, which serve as essential habitats for wildlife, protect water sources, and support biodiversity. He urged national institutions and all Cambodian citizens to actively participate in tree planting, viewing it as a personal contribution to nature conservation and climate resilience for future generations.
On the occasion, the king also expressed profound gratitude to friendly countries and national and international organizations that have supported Cambodia’s efforts in tree planting and the protection of forests and wildlife. He called on all partners to continue these valuable contributions for the benefit of Cambodia and the global community.
Lastly, His Majesty wished for Arbor Day to live on in the hearts of all Cambodians and become a lasting national tradition that is a symbol of unity in preserving the nation’s natural heritage. Tree planting and forest protection are green investments that provide lasting benefits to humanity, animals, the planet, and local communities, enhancing Cambodia’s natural landscape across all seasons.
It should be noted that on Wednesday morning (Jul. 9), King Norodom Sihamoni presided over the 30th Arbor Day celebration. This year’s commemorative park was established in Chamkar Leu district, Kampong Cham province.
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