Water Security and Indigenous Water Management Practice: A Case Study of the Metuk Water Management in Cambodia

Abstract

Flood and drought are two forms of water security, which are key governance challenges, as it causes disaster to human, society, and the environment. Water governance in Cambodia has been challenged by too much water in the wet season, causing flooding, and by too little in the dry season, inducing drought. A proper water practice is needed in place to manage water and reduce water security to support the development of the country. This study is designed to explore the best practice of water management in Cambodia. To provide an answer to this exploration, the study reviews the relevant literature and undertakes a case study of indigenous water management practice in the Tonle Sap Lake. In doing so, the study examines the Metuk water management practice and examines how it contributes to improving water security and reducing its impacts on the livelihoods of local communities. It concludes that the Metuk system is a best practice for water management, which is operated by local communities, using local human and financial resources, with little hands of government agencies from all levels, to address future water governance in Cambodia.