A marine-resource protection organisation said coral is a living organism with an important role in biodiversity, coastal protection and marine ecotourism.
Citing Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Prakas No. 364 dated June 16, 2016, the report described the 40,535-hectare Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem Marine Fisheries Management Area, in what is now the Koh Rong municipality and Koh Rong sangkat area. Its purposes include resource conservation, sustainable fisheries, national policy implementation and poverty reduction.
The area’s management brings together conservation, fisheries, tourism and investment objectives.
Under provincial agriculture and fisheries leadership, ឈុន ថុល, head of the ទនប់រលក Fisheries Administration Division, works with three fishing communities in two sangkats of Koh Rong municipality to protect resources. The report warned against anchoring on coral, damaging reefs, spearfishing and using poison to catch fish.
Coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves form important habitats and ecosystems for marine life to breed, feed and shelter.
The report said trawling and other prohibited fishing gear are banned, while lawful household fishing in community, conservation and multiple-use areas remains subject to the applicable rules.
Responsible ecotourism, recreational and household fishing, diving and research can support resource protection and sustainable community income.
By Pai Sokhim.
