Preah Sihanouk provincial officials have appealed to business owners and the general public to do their part to keep beaches clean and promote a healthy environment to advance the province as a role model and an economic destination that draws in visitors.

The call was made as part of the 10th National Clean City Day celebration on March 3 in Preah Sihanouk held under the theme “Clean City Supports Cambodia Tourism Reopening”.

Preah Sihanouk provincial deputy governor Mang Sinet led the celebration of this year’s Clean City Day at Ochheuteal Beach, at an event with more than 300 participants, which provincial Department of Tourism director Taing Sochet Kresna said was meant to mainstream understanding of the “clean city” concept.

Sochet Kresna touted the province as a model economic destination, in line with Cambodia Industrial Development Policy 2010-2025, and one of the four “priority poles” outlined in the National Strategic Plan for Tourism Development 2021-2035, based on the locality’s potential economic resources and “beautiful” natural resources.

He appealed to officials from relevant departments, authorities at all levels, business owners, visitors and the general public to be more aware of and actively involved in the preservation of a well-managed and safe environment, and promotion of hygienic practices in town, at resorts and on the beach.

Sochet Kresna also stressed the importance of safe tourism practices and adherence to the “three do’s and three don’ts” and other Covid-19 prevention measures.

The deputy provincial governor agreed with Sochet Kresna’s views, saying public participation would be key for Preah Sihanouk to receive another national Clean City award at the end of this year – which he noted would be the province’s third.

With all hands on deck in keeping Preah Sihanouk clean, the province also stands to clinch the “Beautiful Beach 2022” award, and make a striking impression when it hosts the Southeast Asian Games and ASEAN Para Games next year, Sinet said.