Background
On 25 March 2026, the Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology (MOWRAM) held a public forum on its 2026 annual budget, described as the ministry’s Citizen Budget. The opening ceremony was presided over by Secretary of State Chan Yutha, who also serves as head of the public financial management reform working group, representing Minister Thor Chetha.
According to the ministry, the forum was organized with support from the Ministry of Economy and Finance to promote public understanding of MOWRAM’s annual budget, public services, work progress, and 2026 strategic directions.
Scope of Application
The forum was presented as a public dissemination mechanism aimed at the general public, researchers, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. It concerned the ministry’s 2026 budget framework and related sector priorities under MOWRAM’s mandate.
Key Provisions or Decisions
MOWRAM stated that the 2026 budget communication covered the size of the annual budget, public services, progress of work, and strategic directions for 2026.
During the forum, the ministry highlighted key priority policies and action plans for improving water resource management, including:
- continuing modernization of irrigation systems and water infrastructure;
- continuing regular restoration, repair, and maintenance of irrigation systems;
- encouraging farmers to participate in local water user communities;
- strengthening measures for the protection and conservation of water resources;
- continuing modernization of meteorological information and forecasting systems to improve advance warning; and
- paying attention to river health through embankment construction, flow management, and improved water quality management.
The forum was attended by ministry leadership, representatives of the Tonle Sap Authority, the Cambodia National Mekong Committee, subordinate units of the ministry, and heads of provincial and municipal departments from all 25 capital and provinces, together with representatives of the Ministry of Economy and Finance and international development partners including AFD, ADB, the World Bank, IMF, and JICA.
Implications for Investors, Businesses, or Compliance
The item provides an official reference point on MOWRAM’s 2026 budget communication and sector implementation priorities. It is relevant for development partners, researchers, and stakeholders tracking public financial management transparency, water infrastructure planning, irrigation system maintenance, and meteorological system modernization under the ministry’s annual program.
No new regulatory obligations, enforcement measures, or compliance requirements were stated in the source.
Official Source
Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology (MOWRAM), Facebook post published on 25 March 2026.
