KEP: On December 3, Prime Minister Hun Manet highlighted the "Kep Tourism Development Master Plan" 2023-2035, that will promote the seaside town as an eco-tourism destination and luxury resort to fulfill the province’s potential.

He made the announcement during his closing remarks for the 10th Sea Festival which was held this year under the theme “Together for Tourism.”

"The beach is 2,700 meters end-to-end. It is to be changed to suit public interest. The master plan has been prepared, and along the 2,700 meters [of beach], parks and public places should be set up without sparing any expense,” he said.

The Royal Government officially launched the master plan on August 7. The areas in Kep to be developed include the Crab Market, Po Heng Dam. Kep National Forest, the mangrove forests, public beaches, salt fields, mountainous areas, pepper and turmeric plantations, islands, public parks and public green landscapes.

The Prime Minister is also pushing for coastal province development beyond Kep through investment.

"Our four [coastal] provinces, if combined, are not big, but we have a beach. We have the potential to build a port for multi-purpose tourism. This master plan to ensure that the four provinces do not compete with each other, but to provide mutual support, so that we create coastal provinces into provinces that mobilize forces to help promote the potential of the Kingdom of Cambodia,” he said.

He emphasized that the plan would focus on long-term development with a clear vision to avoid the pitfalls of short-sided development.

He urged the construction of infrastructure, roads, and bridges to make it easier for tourists. He highlighted the desire to have a variety of tourist destinations and agro-tourism areas to promote the growth of the industry. He also called for setting a standard to serve tourists and maintaining safety and public order in tourist areas.

Minister of Tourism Sok Soken said that in order to enhance resilience in the process to turn Cambodia into a leading tourist destination with diversity and warmth, the Ministry has set out a mission to build an environment conducive to its needs.