November 18, 2025
PHNOM PENH – In the past year, not a single Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin death was recorded, marking one of the most unprecedented conservation successes in more than 20 years. Conservation groups celebrated this achievement with the “Mekong Dolphin Day” event, which featured a giant dolphin sculpture made entirely from confiscated illegal fishing equipment.
From November 13, 2024, to November 13, 2025, Cambodia recorded zero dolphin deaths. This is the first time since record-keeping began in 2002 that a full year has passed without a single dolphin mortality. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries announced the milestone on November 15.
The ministry described the new record as a “proud achievement” in the protection and conservation of Mekong dolphins. As of November 2025, Cambodia had welcomed seven newborn dolphins, bringing the country’s total dolphin population to 111, up from just 90 in 2002, including both calves and juveniles.
“This remarkable result is the outcome of our determined efforts in effectively managing, caring for, protecting and conserving Mekong dolphins,” the ministry stated.
“This exceptional success reflects the strong attention of the government, the agriculture ministry — through the Fisheries Administration — local authorities, relevant enforcement agencies, WWF, fishing communities and especially the river guards who have devoted their strength and commitment to protecting these dolphins,” it added.
Local fishing communities have also played an important role, providing information about dolphins and reporting illegal fishing activities.
The announcement coincided with the official opening of “Fresh Water Dolphin Day: Protecting Dolphins is protecting our values” at the Kampi Dolphin Ecotourism Site in Chitr Borei district, Kratie province, on November 15.
The event was presided over by Im Rachana, undersecretary of state at the agriculture ministry, Hang Chandy, Kratie deputy governor, and Martin Kabaluapa Kapinga, chief of country offices division of WWF International.
Approximately 400 participants joined the celebration, including monks, technical officers, authorities, partner organisations, local people, fishing communities and students.
The purpose of the event was to raise public awareness about the importance of Mekong dolphins and the need to protect them and conserve the river’s biodiversity.
Representing agriculture minister Dith Tina, Rachana expressed appreciation and gratitude to local authorities, relevant departments, WWF and community groups for supporting dolphin conservation work and Mekong biodiversity protection — especially the river guards who patrol day and night.
WWF-Cambodia noted that the event showcased a giant sculpture of a Mekong dolphin, made entirely from confiscated illegal fishing gear. The sculpture stands as a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of humanity’s responsibility toward conservation, it said.
The event also featured a community products exhibition and cultural performances by local communities.
These activities highlighted positive actions people can take to protect Mekong dolphins while supporting sustainable livelihoods for riverine communities.
Rachana encouraged river guards, authorities and partner organisations to continue strengthening their collaborative conservation efforts to protect Mekong dolphins — which she described as the “heart of the Mekong River” — and preserve them as an irreplaceable natural treasure for Cambodia and the world.