Cambodia, Indonesia to cooperate in environmental tourism management at two world heritage sites

Cambodia and Indonesia just signed an exciting agreement to collaborate on managing their incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The memorandum focuses on developing sustainable and environmentally-friendly tourism practices at Angkor Archaeological Park and Borobudur Temple. This partnership aims to protect these historic sites while creating more sophisticated visitor experiences. It's a fantastic example of international cooperation in cultural preservation and tourism development.

"The MoU provides a foundational principle and framework for effective collaboration" - APSARA National Authority

by IANS January 15, 2025 58 views

Phnom Penh, Jan 15: Cambodia and Indonesia on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in sustainable and environmental tourism management at two UNESCO-listed world heritage sites.

Key Points

1. Cambodia and Indonesia sign tourism cooperation MoU

2. Angkor and Borobudur sites to develop sustainable practices

3. Collaborative approach to heritage site management

4. Focus on environmental and smart tourism strategies

The two sites in the deal are Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park and Indonesia's Borobudur Temple, said a news release from the APSARA National Authority (ANA), a Cambodian government agency responsible for managing, protecting and preserving the Angkor complex.

The MoU was inked in northwest Cambodia's Siem Reap province between ANA's Director General Hang Peou and Hetty Herawati, Director of marketing and business development at the PT Taman Wisata Candi (TWC) Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko, also known as In Journey Destination Management (IDM).

"The MoU provides a foundational principle and framework for effective collaboration between the involved parties," the news release said.

"A primary objective is to enhance smart, sustainable and environmental tourism management practices at both world heritage sites," it added.

This initiative is grounded in the principles of equitable and mutual benefits, aligning with the duties, functions, and authorities of both parties, the news release said.

"The aim is to ensure the seamless execution of responsibilities under the World Heritage Programme, committed to be carried out in good faith," it added, Xinhua news agency reported.

Located in Siem Reap province, the 401-square-km Angkor complex, which currently stands as the most popular tourist attraction in Cambodia, is home to 91 ancient temples built from the ninth to the 13th centuries.

The Angkor complex attracted a total of 1.02 million international tourists in 2024, generating a gross revenue of 47.8 million US dollars from ticket sales, according to the state-owned Angkor Enterprise.

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