Thailand
Cambodia pushing for smoke-free tourism zones
Cambodia could soon have fewer tourist destinations that will allow smoking.
The Agence Kampuchea Presse (AKP) reported yesterday that such plan was among the topics discussed during a big gathering last week of anti-smoking activists, government officials and other relevant stakeholders.
Speaking during SEATCA’s 7th Asia Pacific Smoke-Free Meeting, Tourism Minister Thong Khon said the government will expand the number of smoke-free tourism areas in the Kingdom.
The event was held at the Apsara Palace Resort and Convention Center on Nov 28 and 29. SEATCA stands for Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance, which is a multi-sectoral group established to help countries in the region deal with issues related to smoking.
The Tourism Minister said the campaign will start with Siem Reap, as he urged concerned ministries and other stakeholders to transform Pub Street into a smoke-free and clean area.
Pub Street, where many businesses and entertainment joints are located, is among the most popular areas for tourists visiting Cambodia.
It is understood that other main tourism destinations in the Kingdom will be covered by the plan. In addition to Siem Reap, the other top tourist destinations in Cambodia are the provinces of Kampot, Koh Kong, Battambang, Preah Sihanouk, Phnom Penh and Kep.
The government has established a smoke-free environment working group to work directly with key stakeholders to ensure that tourism is developing into a “green and smoke-free” industry.
Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/50666349/cambodia-pushing-for-smoke-free-tourism-zones/