AKP Phnom Penh, August 26, 2025 --

In a ceremony marking National Fishery Day 2025, officials in Kampong Thom province, this morning released thousands of juvenile lobsters and broodstock into Prey Pros River to replenish the area's natural fishery resources.

The event, held in Trapeang Russey commune, Kampong Svay district, was presided over by Kampong Thom Provincial Governor H.E. Nuon Pharath. 

Approximately 70,000 juvenile lobsters and 6 kilogrammes of brood fish were released to help restore fish and lobster populations. 

The ceremony drew a crowd of around 300 participants, including local officials, community members, teachers, and students.

Mr. Pen Vannarith, Director of the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, highlighted the event's goals, stating that the release aims to restore the abundance of lobsters and fish in the Prey Pros River, provide long-term benefits to locals, and protect broodstock for future reproduction. 

He underscored the critical role of fisheries in Cambodia, noting they are the country's second-largest subsector after crop cultivation and are vital for national food security. He urged the community to help protect these resources and prevent illegal practices, such as electrofishing and the use of banned nets.

"Fishery resources belong to all of us—we nurture the lobsters, and the lobsters nurture us," he said.

Governor H.E. Nuon Pharath explained that the event reflects the Royal Government's commitment to conserving natural resources and ensuring sustainable fisheries, a key focus of the Pentagonal Strategy - Phase I under Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet. He also stressed that lobsters and fish are essential global food sources.

The governor concluded by urging the public to consume fish responsibly, protect breeding grounds, and avoid using banned fishing gear. 

He called on communities to help preserve flooded forests, which are crucial habitats for aquatic species, in line with Cambodia's Fisheries Law.

By K. Rithy Reak