Phnom Penh: Ministry of Information and Ministry of Tourism are joining hands to counter fake news and promote tourism in the country, aiming to protect the honour, reputation, image and national interest of Cambodia. Speaking at a gathering on ‘Tourism Promotion and Anti-Fake News,’ organised at the Ministry of Information this morning, H.E. Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information, said this commitment will further enhance the tourism sector and appealed to all media practitioners, especially social media influencers, to promote Cambodia’s real situation and tourism potential.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Neth Pheaktra highlighted that after gaining full peace in the past more than 26 years, Cambodia should work to promote tourism, transitioning from a history of resistance movements to exploring natural resources with cameras and tents. The minister also addressed the rising issue of fake news, noting an increase in tracked cases on social media from 3,208 to 3,651 between 2023 and 2024. He urged increased attention to fake news, which could harm political stability, national security, the economy, and the country’s reputation.

H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, emphasized the role of tourism as a key driver for national economic growth. He encouraged media practitioners to promote positive tourism-related information, highlighting attractions such as temples, foods, and beaches. The minister stressed the importance of attracting more foreign visitors and boosting local tourism, noting the significant role media can play in achieving this goal.

The tourism minister pointed out that Cambodia welcomed 6.7 million foreign visitors last year, representing a 1.4 percent increase compared to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic period in 2019, and a 22.9 percent increase compared to 2023.