Phnom penh: H.E. Khuong Sreng, Governor of Phnom Penh Municipality, has reaffirmed the Royal Government's strong commitment to caring for senior citizens, stressing that no elderly person will be left to live in isolation or without adequate support. Speaking at a gathering with elderly residents held here this morning to mark the 27th Anniversary of Cambodia's National Day of Older Persons and the International Day of Older Persons (Oct. 1), H.E. Khuong Sreng called on all elderly citizens who face difficulties to contact their respective Sangkat-Khan authorities for immediate assistance.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the governor emphasized that the Royal Government will not allow any elderly person to suffer from hunger or hardship. He urged that if any senior citizen lacks basic needs, they should reach out to local authorities who will provide support promptly. The governor highlighted that the Royal Government attaches high importance to the well-being of the elderly and stressed that this policy will remain in place as long as the ruling party continues to lead the country.
H.E. Khuong Sreng also instructed municipal authorities and the Department of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation to strengthen their attention and support for elderly citizens, while mobilizing contributions from charitable donors to assist those in need. He further encouraged senior citizens to maintain their trust in the leadership of the Royal Government, which is committed to protecting Cambodia's territorial integrity and improving the welfare of the people.
In celebration of the occasion, 525 elderly participants received donations consisting of a 25-kg bag of rice, a blanket, a krama, dried fish, a small case of instant noodles, a case of bottled water, and 50,000 riels in cash, roughly US$12.5. The gifts were a contribution from Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet and the First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet.
According to Mr. Roeun Rithy Pong, Acting Director of the Phnom Penh Department of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, Phnom Penh currently has 145,899 elderly residents, including 77,214 women. A total of 16,685 elderly people hold equity cards (representing 33,950 households), and 14,618 receive monthly financial support under the national social assistance program. In addition, 14,763 elderly veterans and 17,692 retired civil servants benefit from Royal Government policies.