Background
On 12 March 2026, Minister of Water Resources and Meteorology Thor Chetha presided over the official ceremony announcing the assumption of office of Mr. Lay Sothea as Director of the Department of Water Resources and Meteorology in Banteay Meanchey province. The event was held at the Banteay Meanchey provincial administration hall and was attended by provincial council and provincial administration leaders.
According to the ministry, the appointment was made under Sub-Decree No. 160 ANKr.TT dated 11 February 2026 of the Royal Government of Cambodia.
Scope of Application
This update concerns the administrative leadership of the provincial Department of Water Resources and Meteorology in Banteay Meanchey. It relates to the appointment and assignment of responsibilities to the head of the provincial department within the ministry’s provincial governance structure.
Key Provisions or Decisions
The ministry stated that Mr. Lay Sothea, identified by civil service number 1691700026 and holding the rank of Vorak Mony, Class 1, in the administrative management official framework, was appointed and assigned duties as Director of the Banteay Meanchey Department of Water Resources and Meteorology.
During the ceremony, the minister stated that the appointment reflected recognition of qualified and capable civil servants and was consistent with government reform efforts aimed at strengthening governance, work efficiency, and public service delivery. The minister also instructed the newly appointed director to carry out assigned duties effectively, uphold collective leadership and individual responsibility, maintain integrity, strengthen internal unity, and enhance cooperation with provincial institutions, local authorities, and development partners, including in responding to natural disasters in the province.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The item records a provincial administrative appointment rather than a new regulatory requirement. Its long-term relevance lies in identifying the responsible provincial departmental leadership for water resources and meteorology administration in Banteay Meanchey, which may assist stakeholders seeking official institutional reference or engagement with the department.
Official Source
Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology (MOWRAM), Facebook post published on 12 March 2026, referring to Royal Government Sub-Decree No. 160 ANKr.TT dated 11 February 2026.





