AKP Phnom Penh, April 29, 2026 --

Cambodia has released 20 critically endangered Royal Turtles, a national reptile symbol of the Kingdom, into the protected Sre Ambel river system in Kampong Seila district to help restore the species’ population in the wild.

The release ceremony was led by H.E. Ms. Im Rachna, Undersecretary of State in charge of fisheries conservation at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), together with fisheries conservation officials, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), and other relevant authorities.

The turtles were released into the natural habitat located in Kampong Luong commune, Kampong Seila district, Preah Sihanouk province.

The event was jointly organised by WCS and the Fisheries Conservation Department of the Fisheries General Department, with participation from Singapore Ambassador H.E. Steven Pang Chee Wee, local authorities, community representatives, and conservation partners.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Ms. Im Rachna said the release demonstrated Cambodia’s strong commitment to protecting valuable natural heritage.

She noted that the Royal Turtle, known globally as the southern river terrapin (Batagur affinis), is not only an endangered reptile but also a national symbol officially designated by Royal Decree in 2005.

The species is listed as Critically Endangered and is now found in only three countries worldwide — Cambodia, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

She said protecting the Royal Turtle is both a national responsibility and a global conservation obligation.

H.E. Ms. Im Rachna also expressed appreciation to the Government of Singapore for its support, as well as to the Fisheries Conservation Department, WCS, local authorities, and community members for their continued efforts in safeguarding the species.

She called on communities and authorities to continue preventing illegal fishing and habitat destruction to ensure the turtle survives for future generations.

According to the MAFF, conservation efforts since 2000 involving the Fisheries General Department, WCS, and fishing communities have achieved notable progress.

Cambodia currently has 785 Royal Turtles being cared for at conservation centres.

Over the past five years, 284 hatchlings have successfully emerged from breeding centres.

The Ministry said 400 turtles have already been released back into the wild, including 217 fitted with tracking transmitters to monitor their survival and movements.

By C. Nika