Banlung: Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reaffirmed the Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC)'s strong commitment to upholding the rights and freedoms of indigenous peoples across the country. Speaking at an inauguration ceremony for new school buildings and other educational achievements in Banlung city, Rattanakiri province, Samdech Thipadei emphasized that all Cambodian citizens, including indigenous communities, are fully entitled to rights and freedoms, such as freedom of religion, without any form of discrimination.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Samdech Thipadei highlighted the diminishing distinctions between indigenous and non-indigenous citizens as infrastructure improves and living standards rise. He noted that visitors from other regions or abroad often cannot identify minority groups when they arrive in Rattanakiri.
Samdech Thipadei also called for greater promotion of indigenous cultures and increased support for education, vocational training, and other initiatives aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of indigenous peoples. The RGC is actively implementing the National Policy on the Development of Indigenous Minorities, which aims to preserve the unique cultures, customs, traditions, beliefs, and languages of indigenous communities while also improving their living conditions.
There are over 24 indigenous groups residing in nearly two-thirds of Cambodia's provinces, making up about 1.4 percent of the country's population.