Ly Yong Phat, the King of Koh Kong
One Cambodian entrepreneur runs the southwest corner of the country as his own personal fiefdom, but there is trouble brewing over fears of what his expansion plans could mean for the region
- Published: 3 Feb 2013 at 00.00
- Newspaper section: Spectrum
Thai-Cambodian relations have been defined high in the Dangrek Mountains ever since troops from both sides began clashing over the 12th century ruins at Preah Vihear five years ago. Further south, where the Kaoh Pao meets the Gulf of Thailand, it's a very different story.
TWO-WHEELERS FOR HIGH ROLLERS: Above left, motorcycle taxi drivers wait for customers across from a casino on Koh Kong. The development of the island has contributed significantly to the economy, but at substantial environmental costs. Above right, workers lay foundations for new homes in Botum Sakor National Park in Koh Kong province.
Here relations have thrived but in a quiet way, becoming a source of pride for Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and tycoon Ly Yong Phat.
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