AKP Phnom Penh, July 17, 2025 --

In a move set to significantly enhance national connectivity and stimulate economic growth, Cambodia's Minister of Public Works and Transport, H.E. Peng Ponea, on July 16 afternoon announced plans to develop a new waterway transport system linking Kep province to Siem Reap.

The initiative aims to facilitate the movement of both goods and tourists between the coastal region and the country's prominent cultural hub.

The announcement came during a taking-office ceremony on Wednesday afternoon to appoint Mr. Leum Rasmey as the new Director of the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Public Works and Transport, succeeding the retiring Mr. Ky Virin.

H.E. Peng Ponea emphasised that the Royal Government continues to prioritise robust transport infrastructure development, viewing it as a cornerstone for achieving Cambodia’s 2050 vision of becoming a high-income nation. As part of these efforts, the ministry is dedicated to delivering new advancements across all transport sectors, including roads, bridges, railways, waterways, ports, and logistics. A key focus will be on improving infrastructure quality and expanding intermodal connectivity, seamlessly linking existing roads with rail, waterways, and ports.

“The study and development of railway and waterway networks remain key projects under our new mandate,” the Minister stated. He elaborated that the proposed Kep-to-Siem Reap waterway would allow for the efficient transport of goods and tourists from the southern coast, through the Tonle Sap Lake, and onwards to Siem Reap.

This project, if successful, is expected to significantly contribute to Cambodia’s economic development, aligning with the Royal Government's vision, policies, and the “Pentagonal Strategy” of the seventh mandate.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport has also outlined two core priorities: Enhancing Public Services: This involves developing and continuously modernising digital technology to ensure faster, transparent, efficient, user-friendly, and reliable service delivery; Improving Intermodal Connectivity: The focus here is on logistics and transport infrastructure, ensuring quality, safety, sustainability, resilience, and environmental friendliness.

H.E. Peng Ponea concluded by urging the newly appointed provincial department director and all officials in Siem Reap to actively engage with citizens, listening to, addressing, and effectively resolving their challenges and requests.

By K. Rithy Reak