AKP Phnom Penh, June 24, 2025 --

Amid the temporary closure of the Cambodia-Thailand border, the head of the Suvattapheap Vegetable Cluster in Prey Ta Preuk Samaky Meanchey Community, located in West Sdach Kong commune, Banteay Meas district, Kampot province, is calling on local residents to expand rotational vegetable farming and collaborate in group production to ensure stronger market access — while urging them not to migrate in search of work.

Mr. Yim Bon, head of the vegetable cluster, stated this morning that after years of experience in diverse rotational farming, he has developed the skills necessary to support fellow farmers — both those growing outdoors and within net houses.

He emphasised that rotational vegetable farming not only generates daily income but also maintains soil fertility and reduces pest infestations.

To meet the community’s consumption needs, especially as vegetable imports from Thailand are currently halted due to the border closure, Mr. Yim plans to strengthen the community’s agricultural output through cooperative planting. He encourages a “strong help the weak” model, where better-resourced members support those with fewer means.

This, he hopes, will expand the number of participating households in the cluster. However, he noted that scaling up will also depend on financial assistance and project funding.

In addition to encouraging group farming, Mr. Yim also urged the community to focus on improving their livelihoods through agriculture and livestock raising instead of seeking jobs abroad.

It is worth noting that the Prey Ta Preuk Samaky Meanchey Community currently has 121 member households, most of whom raise animals, while only around 30 families are engaged in vegetable farming — primarily due to limited start-up capital.

By K. Rithy Reak