Phnom Penh: First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony, Commissioner General of the Girl Guides Association of Cambodia, spearheaded a charitable initiative on Sunday morning, distributing essential goods and financial aid to 388 cyclo drivers at Phnom Penh Capital Hall. The event was also attended by Phnom Penh Governor H.E. Khuong Sreng, who serves as the Chairman of the Cambodian Tricycle Foundation.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, each cyclo driver received a package comprising 35 kilogrammes of rice, instant noodles, bottled water, soy sauce, cooking oil, orange juice, basic medicine, clothing items like shirts, trousers, scarves, and raincoats, toiletries including soap, toothpaste, and laundry detergent, along with 100,000 Riel (approximately US$25) in cash, and a lunch box.
Governor Khuong Sreng underscored the event’s non-political nature, emphasizing its focus on supporting the livelihoods of cyclo drivers and preserving the traditional mode of transport. “The Cambodian Tricycle Foundation aims to protect the cultural value of cyclos while improving the living conditions of their drivers,” he stated.
The 388 registered drivers benefit from the foundation through a daily allowance of 7,000 Riel (approximately US$1.75) and a “Samdech Techo Welfare Card,” which provides free medical consultations and treatment at public hospitals. Phnom Penh^p
The governor also recalled the support extended during the COVID-19 pandemic by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Honorary President of the Cambodian Tricycle Foundation, who provided food, masks, and sanitizers to the drivers.
First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony highlighted the foundation’s commitment to aiding the elderly and underprivileged, especially within the cyclo-driving community. She mentioned the foundation’s establishment by Samdech Techo Hun Sen on January 18, 2018, and noted that regular donations are made during major national festivals.
She also announced plans for a merit-making ceremony for all 388 cyclo drivers in September 2025, during the Pchum Ben Festival, which will be hosted by herself, Governor Khuong Sreng, and his spouse.