Kampong Cham, July 1, 2024 – This morning, Prime Minister Hun Manet presided over the celebration of National Fish Day, releasing 1.5 million baby fish into Boeung Thom, a large natural lake in Kampong Samnang Village, Mean Commune, Prey Chhor District, Kampong Cham Province.

Since 2003, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries has celebrated National Fish Day on July 1 to promote the conservation and sustainable development of fisheries resources. This initiative aims to increase fish stocks, meet daily food needs, ensure food security, and support the livelihoods of the people. Annually, about 5 million fish, juveniles, and other aquatic species are released into natural waters.

This year, the 19th National Fish Day was celebrated at Boeung Thom, where more than 20 species of fish, including catfish, carp, freshwater lobsters, and turtles, were released. The lake, covering 1,507 hectares in the dry season and 1,924 hectares in the rainy season, serves as a vital water source for agriculture, fish breeding, and as a basic food source for local communities.

Boeung Thom supports four fishing communities—Vihear Thom, Samaki, Mean Commune, Boeung Kbal Krapeu, and Roka Koy—comprising 1,765 fishermen and tens of thousands of other residents who rely on fisheries for their daily sustenance. The lake receives water from the Mekong River through Prek Phum Thmey and Prek Peam Chi Kang, ensuring its capacity to store water even in the dry season.