Cambodia & Marine Life: A Quarter of the Way There, a Project Transforming Cambodia’s Coastline

Along the southern shores of Cambodia, a quiet but profound transformation is underway. The Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries (SCMF) project has just reached a symbolic milestone: 1,250 Fish Productivity Structures (FPS) have been deployed, representing 25% of the total target.

@Cambodge Mag

Led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the French Development Agency (AFD), this program embodies a new vision—one of sustainable, resilient fisheries deeply rooted in local communities.

Restoring a Threatened Ecosystem

For several years, Cambodia’s coastal fisheries have been in alarming decline. One major cause is illegal bottom trawling, a destructive practice that devastates marine habitats and depletes fish stocks.

In response, the SCMF project pursues several ambitious objectives:

• Restore fishery resources

• Promote sustainable aquaculture

• Strengthen food security and coastal livelihoods

• Enhance climate resilience in four key provinces: Kampot, Kep, Koh Kong, and Preah Sihanouk

At the heart of this initiative, Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC) plays a central role, particularly in deploying the FPS.

Artificial Reefs Supporting Marine Life

FPS act as true underwater refuges. Made of 130 kg concrete blocks assembled into octagonal structures, these submerged “towers” provide shelter, food, and protection for many marine species.

Their function goes further. These structures also serve as an effective barrier against illegal trawling. Fishing nets become entangled, making destructive practices impossible in protected areas.

Today, more than 20,000 hectares of marine habitats benefit from this protection—and the results are already visible.

Encouraging Signs of Recovery

Initial monitoring data shows significant ecosystem improvement:

• Fish abundance is six times higher at FPS sites

• 2,040 fish recorded across 55 species

• Noticeable increase in biodiversity

• Return of commercially important species, including juveniles

Local communities confirm these findings. Fish schools are increasing, and some rare species are beginning to reappear, restoring hope among fishers.

Human Effort at the Core of Success

Behind these figures lies demanding fieldwork. Deployments are carried out by Cambodian diving teams, often under challenging conditions.

However, the project’s real strength lies in its community-based approach. Local fishers actively participate in every stage—site selection, block production, monitoring, and deployment.

This participatory model strengthens local ownership and fosters a shared sense of responsibility for protecting marine resources.

As Rachana Thap, Executive Director of MCC, stated: “This 25% milestone represents far more than technical progress. It reflects the commitment, sacrifices, and unity of communities and partners to protect Cambodia’s ocean.”

International Recognition and Lasting Impact

MCC’s conservation efforts have gained international recognition. In 2018, the organization received the prestigious marine protection award from the National Geographic Society. A year later, the Kep archipelago became Cambodia’s first “Hope Spot,” a global recognition of its ecological importance.

Today, the SCMF project goes beyond ecosystem restoration. It is redefining the relationship between communities and the sea by building a sustainable model where conservation and livelihoods advance together.

A Collective Momentum for the Future

This success is built on close collaboration between:

• Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC)

• Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF)

• General Directorate of Fisheries (GDFi)

• Nine fishing communities

With financial support from ADB and AFD, this initiative demonstrates that lasting change is possible when institutions, scientists, and local communities join forces.

As FPS structures continue to be deployed, one thing is clear: the revival of Cambodia’s oceans is already underway.