Cambodia launches Funan Techo Canal projectCEFR A2
13 Nov 2025
Adapted from Hasya Nindita, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by pcrm Dorego, Unsplash
On August 5, 2024 a high-profile groundbreaking ceremony took place in Prek Takeo Village, Kandal province. Prime Minister Hun Manet pressed a symbolic button at 9:09 am during a national holiday broadcast on state and private media.
The Funan Techo Canal will be 180 kilometers long and run from a Mekong tributary in Kandal through Takeo and Kampot to the coast in Kep. The government and supporters say it will attract investment and create jobs, but environmentalists and neighbours say it could harm the Mekong and the delta. Local people say they have not received official notice about compensation or relocation.
Difficult words
- canal — A channel for water transportation.
- trade — Buying and selling goods.
- economy — System of money and business in a place.
- concerns — Worries or issues about something.
- government — Group that makes rules for a country.
- jobs — Positions in which people work.
- reduce — Make something smaller or less.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What are the benefits of building canals?
- How might the canal affect local communities?
- What steps could be taken to protect the environment while building the canal?
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