The Japanese government has provided over $140,000 in funding to the administration of Koh Rong town in Preah Sihanouk province, for the construction of a new dock in the town. The project aims to facilitate improved transport links between the island and the mainland.

“This new pier will help the approximately 3,000 local residents travel more safely and efficiently. Additionally, it will improve cargo transport and support the naval forces in emergency situations,” said Japanese ambassador to Cambodia Ueno Atsushi, during the February 14 grant signing ceremony.

This assistance was provided through Japan’s “Kusanone” grant programme, which provides grant aid for small-scale human security projects.

On the same day, the Japanese also granted over $63,000 to install new machinery at a prosthetic components manufacturing facility in Phnom Penh. The new equipment will replace outdated models.

Ueno expressed his hopes that the new machine would enhance productivity, improve quality and reduce the production time of the artificial limbs that are manufactured at the factory.

“I am pleased to witness Cambodia’s rapid development in recent years. However, I also recognise that many challenges remain, and Japan is willing to assist in improving the quality of life for the Cambodian people. Therefore, Japan will continue supporting development efforts through various official aid programmes, including the ‘Kusanone’ initiative,” he said.

The Kusanone programme was launched in Cambodia in 1991. To date, Japan has provided over $70 million in funding for 694 small-scale projects across the country through the programme, according to the Japanese embassy.