Abu dhabi: Mr. Sav It, an indigenous community leader from Rattanakiri province, represented Cambodia at the prestigious IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Environment announced.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, as head of the O’Tung Protected Area Community, Mr. Sav It presented on his community’s model of integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation. His address, titled ‘Strengthening Indigenous-Led Conservation through Sustainable Forest Products Collection,’ detailed how the Kavet people manage and protect forests within the Vireak Chey National Park.

‘His presentation underscored the critical role of indigenous communities as guardians of biodiversity,’ said a ministry spokesperson. ‘It highlighted how sustainable harvesting of forest by-products supports conservation, promotes gender inclusion, and improves local livelihoods.’

The case study from O’Tung attracted interest from global delegates, reinforcing the value of community-led initiatives in achieving international conservation goals.

Cambodia’s delegation also included Mr. Kong Kimsreng, Head of the Terrestrial Conservation Department for Northern Tonle Sap, who shared the nation’s progress on nature-based solutions and reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable resource management as an IUCN member state.

Mr. Sav It’s participation was facilitated by the Wildlife and Plant International Organisation and the IUCN Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group, with financial support from the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) through the Biodiverse Landscapes Fund.