Phnom Penh: The Royal Government of Cambodia has implemented necessary measures to address a potential large-scale return of Cambodian migrant workers from Thailand. This preparedness was confirmed by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet through a social media post made this afternoon.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, relevant ministries and institutions, all branches of the armed forces, and the administrations of the seven provinces bordering Thailand are on standby to facilitate border crossings. They are also prepared to provide temporary accommodation and food for returning workers in the border areas. The Ministry of National Defence, the Army, and the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration have arranged transportation to aid returnees in traveling from the border to their respective hometowns.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training is ready to assist these workers in securing employment within the country. Currently, there is an average labour shortage of more than 70,000 workers in Cambodia. The Ministry of Economy and Finance, along with other relevant ministries and institutions, is poised to support the reintegration of returning workers through various economic and social intervention packages aimed at improving their daily lives.
Additionally, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet has urged the Association of Banks in Cambodia and the Cambodia Microfinance Association to consider financial measures to alleviate the burden on returning workers, especially those with existing debts. These measures should be implemented within a reasonable timeframe and based on institutional capacity. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of national unity and mutual assistance, stating, "When our country and our Cambodian people face problems, the spirit of national unity and mutual assistance is the strength of our Cambodian nation."