Phnom Penh: The Apsara National Authority announced on Tuesday, February 4, that the regular feeding of monkeys by individuals for content creation purposes has significantly altered their natural behavior, transforming them from wild animals into aggressive, domesticated creatures. This change has led to incidents in which monkeys have snatched food and even caused injuries to humans, according to a press release from the Authority.

The Apsara National Authority noted a recent surge in the monkey population within the Angkor Wat area. To address this issue, the Authority has been collaborating closely with various expert institutions within the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, including the Forestry Administration and the Siem Reap Province Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. A series of meetings have been convened to discuss and implement necessary future measures.

Previously, both the Apsara National Authority and these expert institutions have issued press releases urging the public to refrain from feeding monkeys and to avoid touching or interacting with them.

The Authority is calling on the public, as well as national and international tourists, tour guides, and tourism operators in Siem Reap, to spread this important information and discourage any activities that could exacerbate issues with the monkeys.

Furthermore, the Apsara National Authority will continue its collaboration with relevant departments within the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries to develop appropriate solutions to minimize conflicts with monkeys in Angkor Park.