Phnom Penh:Cambodia and Malaysia have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral tourism cooperation, focusing on making existing agreements more practical and active, with particular emphasis on promoting tourist flows, direct air connectivity, and investment in the tourism sector.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the commitment was underscored by H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, during his speech at a celebration of Malaysia's 69th National Day in Phnom Penh on October 28. The event, organized by the Embassy of Malaysia in Cambodia at Shangri-La Phnom Penh, was attended by H.E. Shaharuddin Onn, Ambassador of Malaysia to Cambodia, alongside representatives from the Senate and National Assembly, members of the Royal Government, heads of public and private institutions, members of the diplomatic corps, and over 200 guests.

Ambassador Shaharuddin Onn emphasized Malaysia's dedication to maintaining the long-standing friendship between the two nations, which will celebrate nearly 70 years in 2027. He highlighted achievements in people-to-people exchanges and tourism promotion, stressing the significance of continued bilateral cooperation for promoting peace and prosperity.

Minister Huot Hak expressed gratitude to Malaysia for its ongoing cooperation and support for Cambodia's national and economic development. He highlighted efforts in people-to-people exchanges, tourism promotion activities, and the importance of direct air connectivity and Malaysian investment in Cambodia's tourism sector. He invited Malaysian and international tourists to visit Cambodia, particularly for the Francophonie Village event in Phnom Penh from November 13 to 17, as part of the 20th Francophonie Summit celebrations.

This renewed focus on tourism cooperation aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Cambodia and Malaysia in 2019, aiming to transform their longstanding partnership into more practical and active collaboration.