By:
• Rin Ousa

• November 5, 2024 , 7:15 PM

PHNOM PENH – Tourism Minister Huot Hak met with influencers on November 4 to strengthen ties between the ministry and the digital influencer community. The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and gather insights from online influencers on innovative ideas and challenges they face in creating tourism content.

Ministry spokesperson Top Sopheak emphasized the significant role of influencers and bloggers in showcasing Cambodia's diverse tourism offerings to both domestic and international audiences. By leveraging their platforms, influencers can help promote the country's rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences to a wider audience.

“They are a part of the ministry in expanding tourism outreach. The meeting was an acknowledgement of their commitment and financial investment in producing such captivating tourism-related content,” Sopheak said. 

“It is essential for all stakeholders including public and private sectors to actively publicize tourism. Up until now, we have observed that both locals and international tourists contribute to promoting Cambodian tourism to a wider audience,” he added. 

Sa Dina, founder of Cambodia Amazing Trip Planner, said the meeting was a "starting step" toward strengthening public, private, and partnership sectors to benefit the tourism industry.

Dina, who typically shares infotainment-format content on social media, has also established community-based camping tours across the country, fostering public participation.

"Cambodia Amazing Trip Planner has been working on its action plan to promote tourism, culture, and nature, aiming to boost the growth of national and international tourists," Dina said.

He added, "It would be a significant source of income for our local communities."

Similarly, Siem Reap-based influencer Chuon Sina expressed her excitement about engaging directly with the tourism minister and fellow influencers.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for influencers and content creators to discuss ongoing challenges and receive strategic solutions from the minister. With this warm support from the ministry, I'm even more committed to creating engaging content," Sina said.

"My videos primarily focus on tourist attractions, local food, and hotels in Siem Reap province. As a travel enthusiast, I'm eager to leverage this opportunity to showcase our tourism to a wider audience," she added.

Reflecting on the dramatic decline in tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sina said “It sparked my interest to contribute to the tourism sector’s recovery by making engaging content.”

The meeting also aims to promote ‘Each Person is an Ambassador for Cambodia’s Tourism’ and ‘Tourism for All, All for Tourism’ campaign. 

Tourism Minister Huot Hak also called on influencers to create more content showcasing various aspects including tourism, food, handmade products, lifestyles and friendliness of local people.