The Preah Sihanouk provincial administration and provincial tourism department ran an August 12 training session for 80 staff from a local transport association, to enhance the quality of tourist services by tuk-tuks, according to a social media post by the provincial administration.

Provincial deputy governor Mang Sinet presided over the course at the department of education in the presence of directors of assorted departments and the staff of the tuk tuk transport association in the province.

Provincial Department of Tourism director Taing Sochet Kresna said during the course that the training aimed to enhance services provided by tuk-tuks to tourists in the province. All tuk-tuks must comply with association standards and will be issued a hallmark and QR code.

He added that drivers must undergo training in hospitality, transportation services, ethics and traffic laws. They will also wear the uniform of the association.

He said the government considers tourism “green gold” and it is one of the highest priority sectors to contribute to the growth and socio-economic development of the Kingdom. It will do this through job creation, investment, poverty reduction, support for the development of infrastructure, and the protection and conservation of cultural and natural resources.

The government defined Preah Sihanouk province as a multi-purpose economic target in line with its Industrial Development Policy 2010–2025.

Sochet Kresna also said that the policy for the development of national tourism depended on the unique potential of economic and natural resources, including international ports, beautiful beaches and islands, the Ream National Park, the Kbal Chhay waterfall and seabed resources.

The province has international-style hotels and restaurants, which has stimulated the growth of tourists, especially domestic tourists.