Kratie: The traditional rice variety Neang Om, carefully preserved since the 1980s by an elderly farmer named Om in Kratie province, has become a symbol of Cambodia’s rich agricultural heritage. This ancient variety is believed to have originated from rice that naturally sprouted after the main harvest season.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Neang Om is known for its fragrant aroma, distinct taste, and heavier grain weight, and was officially recognised by Cambodia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in 2018. Speaking here this morning, H.E. Khim Finan, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, highlighted the efforts of the Neang Om Rice Advanced Agricultural Community in Svay Leu district, Siem Reap province.

This pioneering agricultural cooperative, the first of its kind in Cambodia, consists of over 60 farming households cultivating Neang Om across 728 hectares-693 hectares dedicated to rice production and 35 hectares preserved as forest land. Classified as a premium aromatic rice, Neang Om is a soft-textured, fragrant variety cultivated as a wet-season crop. It is highly resilient to climate conditions and grown under strict safety and quality standards.

Supporting locally grown rice like Neang Om ensures the preservation of Cambodia’s agricultural traditions while promoting sustainable farming practices.