SIEM REAP: Prime Minister Hun Sen has announced that the Cambodian government will not allow Cambodia's heritage to lose its World Heritage status, as the Royal Government of Cambodia will continue to adhere to UNESCO guidelines.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of 38 achievements in Siem Reap on Monday morning (4 April 2022), the Prime Minister instructed real estate investor, Kim Heang, to stop criticizing the authorities for not allowing the construction of skyscrapers in Siem Reap. He reiterated that the ban on the construction of skyscrapers in Siem Reap is to protect the World Heritage status of the Angkor area, as instructed by UNESCO guidelines, which restricts the building of high-rise buildings in such close proximity.

The Prime Minister stressed that it is not only Siem Reap but also other areas on the World Heritage List that are subject to the same rules. He said, "If we violate the conditions set by UNESCO, we will lose our World Heritage status at Angkor Wat, Sambor Prei Kuk and Preah Vihear, and now we are preparing documents for other areas to be inscribed on the World Heritage List.”

He further added, “There is no shortage of real estate market areas, so please do not go to the heritage registered area.” He also urged UNESCO and its Cambodian Heritage Conservation Parties not to worry about the guidelines being breached, as the government would not allow this to ever happen.

He stressed, "We do not kill the mother hen just for one delicious meal. We must feed them well to get their blessings. We cannot let the World Heritage site of Angkor Wat here suffer any loss of World Heritage properties. I urge the international community, as well as the co-chairs of the ICC, Japan and France, to be ready to sign for another 10 years without hesitation.”