In response to mounting public concerns over air quality and widespread skepticism regarding official data, Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth has pledged to enhance transparency and enforcement in environmental monitoring. 

While addressing a Thursday ceremony to accept three new air quality monitoring stations (AQMS) from South Korea, he acknowledged the growing unease and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing accurate and timely air pollution data.

Sophalleth directly addressed skepticism surrounding air pollution figures, warning that misinformation had fueled unnecessary fears. 

“In the past few months, we have experienced many issues regarding air quality. The public are not getting accurate information on the level of pollution, and that stirs public concerns — especially with social media sometimes overstating the truth,” he said.

He stressed that the government recognises the anxiety among Cambodians over air pollution and is determined to provide reliable data. 

“People do worry about their health, about the pollution, and that is exactly why we are implementing this air quality monitoring system — so that the public can have access to real, science-based information,” he added.

The newly installed air quality monitoring stations, funded by the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF), are designed to offer real-time data on pollution levels across Cambodia. 

Sophalleth explained that the new stations are not just pieces of equipment.

“They are also powerful tools in our arsenal to effectively implement the environmental security strategy, to accurately assess the current state of air quality, to identify pollution hotspots and sources, and to track the effectiveness of our clean air initiatives,” he declared.

“I don’t want to hide it. That’s not right. The public has the right to know. To be able to serve them better, we have to let them know what’s going on,” he added.

Sophalleth proposed broadcasting live data via the Cambodian and ASEAN Air Quality Monitoring System (AQMS) mobile application for all ASEAN countries to access, ensuring transparency and preventing misunderstandings. 

This would include displaying wind direction to help the public take appropriate protective measures for their health.

“I have requested that South Korea provide live satellite images, and we expect to receive them in the coming days,” said the minister.

“With these satellite images, along with wind direction data and air pollution levels, the public will have clear and accurate information,” he added.

He stated that this is part of the government's efforts to inform the people about how to protect the environment, particularly the air they breathe daily, which is essential for their survival and well-being.

Sophalleth said that starting this year, the goal is to provide real information, raise public awareness and encourage measures to protect the country. The ministry is taking action to ensure that air quality in Cambodia remains good or improves, he added.

The minister explained that the strategy focuses on addressing fair conditions first, ensuring that accurate information is provided to the public. 

He emphasised that the public has the right to know about air quality and reiterated that the ministry's role is to serve the public. 

He also urged people to download the Cambodia Air Quality (CGS SPA) app, which provides real-time data from more than 60 monitoring stations across the country, and to remain vigilant in areas where air pollution is high.

The goal is to provide accurate data, raise awareness and enable coordinated action, while also identifying and prioritising pollution sources, such as fires and factories, for further action.

Beyond monitoring, Sophalleth emphasised the need for stronger enforcement of environmental laws to curb pollution at its source. 

He said the ministry had halted a few factories from burning paper and waste materials in the last two weeks because this practice is a leading cause of pollution.

He pointed out that officials must be proactive in enforcing regulations. 

“We have the environmental code, we have the law, we have the regulations — yet our officials are not able to systematically implement them. That has to change,” he said.

The minister warned against inaction, stating that pollution is a matter of life and death. 

“People don’t just get sick and die. They die because of pollution. And that is our responsibility — your responsibility,” he said, directing his message to environmental officials. 

“Being relaxed, reluctant or overlooking legal enforcement means pollution continues to take lives,” he added.

He also stressed Cambodia’s ambition to extend its clean air strategies beyond national borders. 

Sophalleth noted that Cambodia has introduced the “Blue-Sky Strategy” to address air pollution, complemented by the new air quality monitoring system. 

He expressed his hopes that this strategy and system will be expanded to other ASEAN countries, enabling everyone in the region to know the state of their air quality. 

He added that if all ASEAN countries manage their air quality, the region would benefit.

Sophalleth reiterated that providing accurate, real-time air quality data is not just about meeting government obligations but about empowering citizens. 

He once again urged officials to uphold their responsibilities, warning that history will judge those who fail to act. 

“We are living in a digital age, and your name as an official of the environment ministry will be there for generations to come,” he said. “Think ahead—what do you want to leave as your legacy for Cambodia?”