Phnom Penh:H.E. Tep Asnarith, Under Secretary of State and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Information, emphasized the importance of fact-based reporting in promoting public awareness and action for the protection of Cambodia's natural heritage and socio-economic development. His remarks were made during the launch of the "Amazing Nature of Cambodia" campaign, a two-day event held at Aeon Mall Sen Sok City in Phnom Penh.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the campaign, themed 'Appreciating the Value of Nature,' was organized by the Ministry of Information in collaboration with the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and Tourism, alongside partners such as CI, WCS, WEA, Wonders of the Mekong, WWF, NatureLife, and others. The initiative aims to connect the public, particularly urban youth, to the significance of ecosystems, nature, and biodiversity.
H.E. Tep Asnarith praised the collaborative efforts of the partner ministries and institutions, underscoring the importance of professional and responsible reporting based on facts, scientific data, and clear sources. He highlighted that such reporting builds public trust and supports conservation efforts, nature tourism, community income, and national prestige. Additionally, he urged ministries and related entities to enhance information sharing on scientific data, new biodiversity discoveries, conservation research, and community livelihood projects, while promoting cross-sectoral topics such as environment and tourism, culture, health, and education.
Journalists and content creators were reminded by the Under Secretary of State to thoroughly research topics using official sources and include relevant voices in their stories. He stressed the need for adherence to professional ethics and laws, encouraging the production of content on attractive natural areas and positive messaging against illegal natural resource trafficking.
H.E. Tep Asnarith noted the deep connection of Cambodia's forests, rivers, wetlands, and coastal areas to public health, culture, traditional beliefs, and Khmer identity. The event seeks to motivate youth and the public to adopt sustainable daily practices, such as reducing plastic use, refusing wild animal meat, and caring for the environment. He also highlighted the Ministry of Information's ongoing collaboration with various ministries, institutions, organizations, and private partners to promote quality information and educational content for sustainable development and the preservation of Cambodia's natural wonders for future generations.