In response to a journalist's question about Samdech BovorThibadei Prime Minister's announcement regarding the preservation of the Pochentong International Airport as state property and a public benefit, Dr. Yang Peou, a political and social analyst in Cambodia, expressed his support for this announcement. He emphasized that preserving the old airport for public benefit is commendable both in terms of historical value and in concluding the political connections related to this old airport.

Dr. Yang Peou pointed out that the Prime Minister's announcement is a positive move that ends various political perspectives that have sought to profit from this case. Some politicians have often linked this issue to other matters, which is quite sensitive, especially since there have been past instances of using public land through various exchanges. The creation of the rumor"Pochentong International Airport" to be bidden and sold to private companies has been connected by some politicians,political activists as well as analysts to various political topics based on their own intentions and desires.

He noted that there have been numerous discussions about the future use of Pochentong International Airport’s land. The announcement to maintain this location as public property for the benefit of the general populace reflects a long-term vision of the Cambodian government head of state. Dr. Yang Pov highlighted the potential for using this airport land, noting that due to economic and social development, one of the most pressing issues faced by the general population in Phnom Penh is traffic congestion, primarily because many institutions have been built in densely populated areas, causing heavy traffic.

At this point, Dr. Yang Peou suggested that this international airport should be considered for organizing a cluster of major governmental ministries/institutions to alleviate traffic congestion and difficulties faced by citizens and investors seeking various public services from government ministries/institutions. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of constructing governmental ministries/institutions and departments in a unified architectural style, particularly in a contemporary Khmer architectural design that reflects the prestige of Cambodian contemporary construction while serving public interests sustainably.

In addition, Cambodia's new international airport, located inKandal Stueng District, Kandal Province, is conveniently accessible to Phnom Penh via the third ring road, which is also near the old airport site. This will facilitate infrastructure connectivity between administrative locations and the new international airport, contributing to development in this suburban area.

Furthermore, Dr. Yang Peou mentioned the possibility of organizing the old airport site for another public benefit: establishing a large national standard hospital with ample space that could encompass a hospital, a medical university, high-level medical laboratories, and public parks for citizens, ensuring health security for the public and users of health services in that area. He further clarified that the old airport site should be managed and preserved sustainably to showcase a culture of heritage conservation from previous generations, maintaining the historical significance of the site for the nation, and highlighting the process of national social development that supports public well-being and earns appreciation from the general populace as well. 

RAC Media