AKP Preah Vihear, June 11, 2025– --

The media is often regarded as the “fourth estate” and, when used responsibly, plays a vital role in maintaining peace and fostering national development.

Acknowledging this, Minister of Information H.E. Neth Pheaktra and Preah Vihear Provincial Governor H.E. Kim Rithy have called on provincial information officers to intensify the production of high-quality, content-rich information that contributes positively to public discourse and counters disinformation.

During a meeting with officials from the Preah Vihear Department of Information on June 10 afternoon, Minister Neth Pheaktra emphasised the need for more engaging and substantive content, particularly stories that can promote tourism and highlight the region’s development potential. He encouraged the integration of strategic messaging that aligns with national development goals and enhances the livelihoods of local communities.

The Minister also instructed public information officers and communication teams to work closely with the provincial administration in managing public opinion, responding promptly to misinformation, and proactively disseminating accurate and timely updates.

“We must provide citizens with verified information that helps them understand the Royal Government’s policies and national development efforts,” he said, stressing the importance of swift action against fake news.

H.E. Neth Pheaktra reminded the officials that being a media officer is more than just reporting news—it requires strategic thinking aligned with the country’s communication and public relations policies.

In today’s digital age, he said, disinformation spreads quickly through social media, making it imperative that journalists and public information departments remain united in broadcasting the truth.

He reiterated that the Information Ministry acts as a key public relations arm for the Royal Government and that public communications efforts depend heavily on the capacity and expertise of its officers.

Strengthening these competencies is crucial for improving the effectiveness of the Royal Government messaging.

He further noted the increasing relevance of digital content, emphasising that in order to manage information effectively in today’s fast-paced digital environment, both the quality and speed of dissemination must be prioritised. “In this seventh mandate, the Ministry is committed to being a dynamic, responsive, and high-impact institution in public relations,” he said.

Echoing these remarks, Governor Kim Rithy praised the efforts of the Preah Vihear Provincial Information Department, acknowledging their achievements despite facing resource constraints. “Their dedication has led to the production of valuable news content that promotes the province’s potential and highlights local government activities,” he said.

He underscored the indispensable role of the media in daily life and its responsibility to provide truthful, relevant, and engaging content.

“Journalists must know not only what stories to tell, but also how to tell them in ways that inform and benefit society,” he added.

Hem Sokunpisey, Director of the Preah Vihear Information Department, also reaffirmed the department’s commitment to truthful and quality reporting. She emphasised the role of media in the fifth strategic priority of the government’s Pentagonal Strategy-Phase 1—promoting digital economic and social development.

In the first half of 2025, the provincial department has focused on expanding local news coverage, collecting and broadcasting information across districts and communes, and spotlighting development outcomes.

These efforts aim to bridge national policies with local realities while contributing to Cambodia’s broader digital transformation.

By K. Rithy Reak