(1) Strengthen women’s economic power

At this point, I should add that the main goal that we must prioritize is to strengthen the economy of women. It is seen that as women hold money, men have no right to protest. Therefore, we must strive to empower women and get them power in decisions related to family economic issues, which are an influential part of the family […]

(2) National movement to build dormitories for female students

At the annual meeting of the Cambodia National Council for Women on February 21, 2023, I entrusted the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports with the task of building more dormitories for female students to facilitate their learning in Phnom Penh and at Provinces. I should clarify a bit here for all of us that (we must try) to make it become a national movement … we have set the direction in the work by continuing to focus on building dormitories for female students, not just in Phnom Penh, but also in the provinces […]

(3) No women in secondary school, no women in higher education

As we build schools, we need to add dormitories for women in high school. Without women in secondary school, we would not have women in higher education. With this effort, by encouraging rural female students to have the opportunity to study in high school with accommodation, we will be able to reduce the gap (between male and female students) between urban and rural areas … I have traveled more than 6,000 kilometers to check on that in high schools where I built with dormitories for both teachers and students, and female students is the priority. Therefore, along with the state budget, we can call on philanthropists in various places to participate in the dormitory for rural female students to reduce the urban-rural gap for our women […]

(4) Domestic violence tends to decrease

According to the report, the violence has decreased, but some serious cases still occurred this time, such as the shooting and killing by men of wife or other forms of violence. We must strive to eliminate it through action by both men and women. We always say that when you get married, whatever year the woman may be, she will become the one born of the year of the tiger. The truth is not so. It was the man who turned into a tiger … so far, how many women raised their hands to beat their husbands? it is the man who raised hands at his wife […] it is requires both men and women to act simultaneously in mutual respect … (there had been cases where) men and women divorced and separated and they brought their stories up in Facebook. Following my call for them to stop doing that, using Facebook and other social media to blame one another reduced […]

(5) To sign/seek no pardon for politicians who commit criminal offenses

[…] while the whole family were in shock and tears that my sister lost her life … they (the opposition) came out to attack my sister, my wife and my family. If Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ambassadors and foreign friends are my sister, my wife, can you get it? I do not govern the state based on sentiment of, but we must enforce rule of law … the person is already dead and why they kept attacking? This is why I declare not to sign any amnesty for politicians who commit crimes … it is too bad […] my sister-in-law, my wife are also women, why did they insult them to that extent? Some foreigners even came to talk to me and instead of talking about insults, they even defended those insulters. It is enough. Please respect the dignity of the Cambodian people […]

(6) Decided to provide allowances for workers at 71 suspended factories

[…] Let me send a message to 26,000 women out of 32,000 workers who are losing their jobs … I have signed a (decision to provide) subsidy in the event that the factories suspended (their operational) … I have decided that (those) workers receive the same amount of financial (support) as (the one we provided to workers of the factories suspended during the time of) Covid-19 period … as these 71 factories (closed), in Kampong Speu, on the other hand, there is a demand for about 30,000 workers … I am asking the Ministry of Labor to figure out how to recruit those female workers […]

At the same time, I also recommend increasing the money assistance for pregnant women to give birth to children, and keep supporting them until their newborns are 2 years old […] We are ready for the election and a new government will be formed in the second or third week of September. Some people may want to know (about the composition of the new cabinet), for which I can say that the Minister of Women’s Affairs and the Minister of Culture and Fine Arts are going to be keeping their jobs […]

(7) The last three polls – more women than men like “Hun Sen”

[…] Speaking of the last three polls – January 2022, October 2022 and January 2023, (among) those who like Hun Sen, women have a higher rate than men … this support rate means the voice/votes. (This survey) has always been (done) and not by Cambodians … the support rate may vary to high or low (by) region, but no matter how high, no matter where, Hun Sen’s satisfaction rate among women is higher than among men. I am researching why women support Hun Sen? … maybe because women can benefit so much from the peace and development that I have led […]./.

(1) The CPP-led Royal Government a symbol of change in the Kingdom of Cambodia

[…] We have heard some parties say they are a symbol of change. I would like to emphasize that the CPP (which) leads (the Royal) government is a symbol of change of the Kingdom of Cambodia […] why the CPP (which) leads (the Royal) government dares to claim that it is a symbol of change? We have already seen the transition from killing fields to survival, the transition from war to peace, the transition from impoverished country to one that is a low-middle-income country, one with the transition to become a high-middle-income country by 2030, and to become a high-income country 2050. Not long, we will get out of the (least) developed countries list. This is the most realistic change we have seen […] in the past, Phnom Penh did not have high-rise buildings. The highest building is only 7 floors and there is only one building. Phnom Penh now has not a 7-storey building but 20-storey, 30-storey, 40-storey building. That is a symbol of change. The CPP is the only party that leads to changes […]

(2) (CPP) is not just a symbol of but a real change

… From now on, the (Cambodian People’s) Party also speaks of itself as a symbol of a certain changes, and we do the real thing. Previously, there were no schools or there were, but there were few students who had not previously learned or learned little. Now Build Bright University for instance, in addition to branches in Phnom Penh, also has branches in the provinces. From a country where student had not schools to go to, students now have access to schools, isn’t that a symbol of change? It is not just a symbolic change. It is a real change. A palm cannot hide the sun […] in fact, in all provinces and the capital development is remarkably visibly real […]

(3) The opposition groups boast themselves a symbol of regime change

Who makes (real) change? You can only talk about the symbolism of regime change. You want to be a symbol of regime change. If you talk about the symbolism of the transition from war to peace, from genocide to survival, from nothing to anything, there is something, I cannot believe you. You did not do that. You just dream of power. I do not mean to insult anyone, but they have been talking too much about the symbolism of change. In response, the CPP from now on will declare itself a symbol of change in Cambodia. This is a political message […]

(4) Reopening the country on November 1, 2022, back to 5.2% Growth

We reopened the country on November 1, 2022 […] we borrowed the building at the Olympic Stadium (to be used as a treatment for patients with Covid-19). We borrowed buildings at Koh Pich for treatment as well. We allowed no citizens with Covid-19 to go without a place to stay/treatment. To avoid borrowing (those buildings anymore), we build a hospital (with a capacity of) 10,000 beds, which can be considered as the largest hospital in the country and may be the largest hospital in ASEAN […] along with effort to reopen the country, we have revived the economic growth after falling into the negative area in 2020 to move up to 3% in 2021 and 5.2% in 2022 […]

(5) May the sacred Buddhas of Chek and Cham reserve no pity at those accused CPP burning the Royal Palace in Siem Reap

I would like to express my condolences for what happened in Siem Reap. The fire of the Royal Palace. On that day, I followed it up with the provincial governor online. Before 5 a.m., Samdech Kong Sam Ol contacted me and asked to arrange a helicopter for him to go there. With regard to this fire incident, please explain it according to the announcement of the Ministry of the Royal Palace, and do not go beyond that. Those cunts interpreted what they wanted from outside the country that this is an arrangement of the CPP and the government. I would appeal to the sacred Buddhas of Chek and Cham to reserve them no pity for accusing the CPP burning the Royal Palace in Siem Reap […]

(6) Do not panic over the collapse of the US Banks

Another thing is the widespread fear after the collapses of the US banks. This should be confirmed to our citizens. (Please) do not panic in the face of the collapse of the Banks in America. This is something that happened before. The first collapse was when the Asian financial crisis occurred in 1997. There was a real turmoil of banks in (some) countries, including banks in Cambodia. Our bank at that time were small […] again in 2008, the global economic and financial crisis caused collapses of an American bank. It did not hurt Cambodia, of course, but at that time we tried to prevent the risk by raising the obligation rate from 7% to 12% in reservation for the bad situation. Now, as the banks know how to manage their own risk, we have reduced reserve requirement obligation to only 7%. I call on our citizens, those who have money in the bank, not to panic, because panic will cause us to lose benefits […]

(7) Nothing is wrong that Cambodia strengthens Cambodian military seaport

[…] Cambodia has already announced it, and there is no need to prove from satellite, (and the work at Ream seaport is presided) by Samdech Pichey Sena Tea Banh (Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense). Since we have already revealed it to the public why there is a need give suspicion? One would not do that unless one wants to find fault with it. Nothing is wrong that Cambodia strengthens the capacity of the Cambodian military seaport? This is the Cambodian territory and so Cambodia has the right to expand its naval capabilities. Our original water depth is only 2.7 meters, and we have to pump out the sand and deepen a path for larger ships […] we need to strengthen our naval capabilities. It has not been easy for us to get capital from China to do this. Cambodia has the right to get capital from different sources available to do it […]

(8) Cambodia understands you, you do not understand Cambodia

With regard to nuclear submarines, for example, AUKUS Tripartite Alliance has been trying to explain to ASEAN countries because Southeast Asia is a nuclear-free zone. You have come to explain that this is not a nuclear weapon, it is a nuclear submarine. Why I can understand you when you come to explain to me. And when I explain to you, you do not understand? The other day I spoke with and made it clear to the Australian ambassador that I understand that this is not a nuclear weapon, just a nuclear-powered submarine. However, why do you not understand me when I explain that I need to build the capacity of the Cambodian navy to defend sovereignty, to fight against human trafficking/drug smuggling (and) illegal fishing or crossing border crimes in the sea of Cambodia […]

(9) There are no foreign troops in Cambodia, once built welcomes joint exercises

Let me send a message back. There is no need to campaign against Cambodia. Cambodia has the right to implement its constitution to defend its territory. (I wish to) reiterate that Cambodia does not have any Chinese or foreign troops in its territory. Once we finished the construction, Cambodia will welcome all countries to dock in the port of Cambodia and we can exercise together. We welcome (visiting ships) from all countries. This is an accusation from a group that refuses to understand. If you do not understand, I have no other choice but to not understand you. We are considering with other ASEAN countries […] we also have concerns because on land (there seemed to be distrust), how about going down into the water. They say there is no nuclear, what if there is a nuclear? Will they let us check on their submarines? They will not […]

(10) Be a good partner with ASEAN members

You talk as if you cannot hear each other. If they refuse to listen, we will not listen to them too. I pointed out already that “please do not look at Cambodia only as a country alone. Look at Cambodia a little further from Cambodia.” It means that Cambodia has a partner within the framework of ASEAN. If you want to be a good partner of ASEAN, you have to be a good partner with all ASEAN member countries to avoid any objections from (ASEAN) members, including Cambodia […] this message is for foreign friends not to campaign against Cambodia and do not forget that Cambodia is an ASEAN member. When you want ASEAN relations, you need to see beyond that Cambodia is a responsible member of ASEAN and has the right to prevent a consensus. If you want to have good relations with ASEAN, do good work with ASEAN members. It is an interference in the nature of a campaign to tarnish Cambodia’s image and destroy its reputation at the time that Cambodia prepares for elections […]

(11) Acts that increased distrust lead to inability to sign an amnesty

A while ago I told an ambassador that you have been contributing to the punishment of people who have just been sentenced. You visited the person now and then. Meeting had been so frequent. Do you not think the court does not care about that? It also creates a point that Hun Sen does not trust (to) request pardon for anyone […] your actions are wrong, create a reason for the court to find a story of conspiracy, and it increases distrust that the Prime Minister cannot raise his hand to sign an amnesty for anyone in this case. This is a message to inform related parties, and it is because diplomacy sometimes requires to be speaking honestly […]./.

(1) 99% of villages and 90% of houses nationwide are connected to the electricity network

[…] Nationwide, 99% of villages … and 90% of the houses are already connected to the national network. It is the age of electricity, not the age of incandescent lamp, the use of candles/lanterns […] the current solution of electricity also requires solving in a way that it does not pollute the environment. Therefore, hydropower is considered as a type of renewable source that does not affect climate change […] so far, 62% of electricity in Cambodia has come from renewable sources. We are trying to improve the remaining 40% […]

(2) Electricity demand increased from 30 MW to over 2,000 MW nationwide

[…] In the 1990s, we had a consumption of only 30 MW in Phnom Penh and in the provinces was even less. Now our consumption capacity (nationwide) is over 2,200 MW […] as predicted, electricity demand will increase. We need to find a source of electricity […] some have blocked (our efforts on) hydropower generation, but they also demanded that we address their electricity need. How to solve this then? (Electricity produced using) fossil fuel is too expensive. Coal pollutes the environment. To generate electricity in form of hydropower destroys the forest, causing the flooding of some areas. Do we have to go back to burning candles/kerosene lamps? Phnom Penh (previously needed) only 30 MW, now Phnom Penh alone uses up to 1,000 MW […]

(3) The return to coal-fired power generation makes climate change agreements meaningless

Let me talk a little bit about electricity prices. In Europe, the price of electricity has gone up. Firewood is now hitting a high price in Europe. Some European countries impose heavy sanctions on Russia. Russia does not cut off (its gas supply), but some Europeans do not buy gas from Russia. People who used gas for heating or cooking, they do not have (heating power) anymore […] supermarkets in the UK/Germany have had firewood in store for sale […] some European countries have been forced to re-use coal after they announced in 2021 that they would not build coal-fired power plants. Now European countries have re-used coal. Therefore, climate change agreements are no longer meaningful […]

(4) Damnak Ampil Dam, Charit Dam provide water for the dry season, Stung Pursat Dam reduces flooding

I have been wanting to build the Damnak Ampil dam since 1986 […] then HE Ros Sreng was the provincial governor […] it was my intention to build the Damnak Ampil dam […] we have got the Damnak Ampil Dam. From there, before dropping water to the Tonle Sap, there is another dam – Charit. I declare (building) the Charit dam from Canberra, the capital of Australia […] the people of Pursat benefit from the (two) dams. According to the study, building a dam on the Pursat River reduces flooding of the provincial town of Pursat […] in the rainy season and provides water well in the dry season […]

(5) To establish the fourth economic pole as a corridor of fish and rice covering 4 northwestern provinces

[…] I came up with the idea of creating a fourth economic pole that would cover four provinces in the northwest – Pursat, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey and Pailin. It all started from the negotiations between me and Chinese President Xi Jinping, in which we will create a fish and rice corridor project, because in this direction we have a lot of rice and fish. As for fish it does not refer to just fish from Tonle Sap, but also farmed fish. We also have other products […] I believe that China also looks to help with investment in the construction of national road 55 […]

(6) Let us turn Pursat river into a tourist area

[…] I wanted this area to be an attractive tourist destination in the future. The company (who are working on hydropower dam) can think of building resort. I heard that Veal Veng has a number of resorts. Originally this was a war place. It has now become a tourist destination. That is the fruit of peace. Some people do not dare to talk about peace. You can now see how much the people benefit from peace. Even those who do not dare to talk about peace for fear that (people thank) CPP for peace, they also benefit from peace. Soon they are going to places campaigning what they are going to do for people if the people will vote for them […]

(7) CPP RGC brings real benefits to people

The (Royal) government never promised but bring people the real benefits. You have already benefited from peace […] from the beginning, Veal Veng had not had roads. It was a fighting place […] the military engineering team under Gen. Kvan Siem’s command built national road 55 and 56 […] now we have a paved road to the border and we have another ring road connecting from Battambang and Pailin to Pursat, and connecting to Koh Kong. Are they not the benefits (that) the people have already received? Electricity prices go up in many countries. Cambodia does not go up in price. Our neighbors used to have lower electricity prices than us, but now they are starting to rise above ours […]

(8) Hope Pursat people will continue to vote the 4 seats for CPP

When it comes to electoral campaigning, people promise much more (than) we do. The funny thing is, while living in a shabby home, s/he goes out promising people concrete houses. I believe the people now are not like before […] as for Pursat, I do not wonder, is very supportive of the CPP. That is the truth. In 2008, we won all the four seats. This year, I hope (CPP) gets four more seats. But in order to get 4 seats, you will have to vote for the CPP so that we can all develop and then I will come to visit (people in Pursat) ay a later stage […]./.

(1) The movie – “The Son Born under the Full Moon” appeared in parallel with the book “Cambodia’s strong man”

[…] While foreigners were writing book about “Cambodia’s strongman,” the story of the son under the moonlight appeared. At that time, I was listening to Radio 103 Phnom Penh. I think this was very much like my story. I asked. It is truly the story about me. Since then, we have begun to adjust according to the facts should be. But some episodes have already gone in the air. Some editing needs to be made. In that, the radio broadcast may be different with the narrative that has a new addition in the film […]

(2) The 30-hours video will be published in book form in the next 10 years

Why did I bring this book today? I made a video for over 30 hours and I have it transcribed into a book. This book has little to do with storytelling. We cannot publish this book at this time. It will take at least another 10 years to publish because there are so many secrets. (Those events) cannot be released on film. (Events) in this book are the recollections from 1977 to 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006. The story that happened before that is not in this movie (but) must be a part in this book […]

(3) A true story that cannot be filmed/performed wrong

[…] Three foreign companies came to see me. There was one company that I would not name it, came up twice. I refused to let them shoot this movie. I told them if you would like to do it, you have to take the scenario in the story of “The Son under the Full Moon” … my story cannot be distorted […] otherwise it would make a true story become a lie. In this story, that you play my character, not a single word can be wrong. (If misrepresented or mis-performed,) the next day it could become a different story. I urge further attention […]

(4) Coup d’état overthrowing Norodom Sihanouk taking the Cambodian people hostage to the war

[…] Let me reiterate that it is not a separate inspiration. My character is connected to the life of the Khmer nation, one of the millions of young people who suffered because of the war (caused by) the wrong decision of the politicians in the coup to overthrow Prince Norodom Sihanouk. (That wrong decision) became a problem for the people, all of whom became hostages of the war. Please note that I do not name this character as Hun Sen, but they can understand who the Commander Samrech and Marini are. It (is an event that) involves the whole nation, not the individual. It may leave a legacy for future generations to understand […]

(5) Those entered the Marquis in 1970s thought Circular 870 signed by King Norodom Sihanouk

[…] Those who entered the Marquis in the 1970s did not know who the real leaders were. (There was this) circular number 870. We assumed that 870 was a directive of Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk or Samdech Pen Nuth, who was the President of the Cambodian National United Front and the Prime Minister, while Khieu Samphan was, to my understanding, the Minister of National Defense […] then came this name Pol. We still thought that maybe the confidential name of Prince Norodom Sihanouk or the confidential name of Samdech Pen Nuth […]

(6) The character of Hun Sen connected to the lives of the people

Is it beneficial for historians? It is beneficial for researchers to know the evolution of the situation from one stage to another, the flexibility of the situation. This is something that needs to be done […] Cambodians can understand that starting from trading life as capital, […] I lead the country until now, and they cannot separate me from the country’s evolution. That’s right. Hun Sen’s character is not just Hun Sen, but it has been connected to the lives of the people from that time until now. I have traded life for people’s survival, for peace. Fortunately, I am still alive today. That is why making this movie comes in […]

(7) Unbreakable love – marriage in the time of turmoil

This time, (unlike what they have written in the speaking theatre,) we put it right, as in the first part, we should tell the truth. I hope my beloved wife does not disagree with me. I have written to fill in the gaps, and as part of today’s story, “The Unbreakable Couple,” the first part is “Marriage in Time of Turmoil” and the second part is “Life after Marriage.” I do not know if there is or is not a sin or astrology or a definite karma that two people who do not know each other are matched by their combatants. We finally met as a couple. By now we have children and grandchildren. If the grandchildren agree, we may have even grandchildren […]

(8) Give feedbacks with tears on the scene footages

I can tell all of you that physical injuries can be healed, but mental injuries are difficult to heal. It has hit me so far for years, but I still cannot forget it. When filming, Huy Veasna always sent footages for me to check twice. Take a footage, montage and send it to me for a review. I give feedbacks. At some points they needed to be recorded or to change the sound, correct the words, etc. Almost every time I did it, I shed tears. In fact, the story between my wife and me was a part of the grief of people across the country. Psychological attacks and emotional trauma is not a minor issue […]

(9) In public office for more than 44 years, 80% of dreams are from the past

[…] I have held public office for more than 44 years, including the post of Prime Minister, but 80% of my dreams have never been about being the Prime Minister. I dreamed of my sad past […] (in) war, when one entered, one did not think to have a chance to return. I never shed tears when I fought […] but I shed tears almost all the time without my wife knowing (in anticipation) that she would recover soon. I took care of my wife as if I did to an old mother. She is a live witness here […]

(10) Continue to shoot more difficult scenes

In the future, difficult scenes will continue to be filmed. Now some have been recorded and assembled for subsequent broadcasts. But all these things (I mentioned), I think will be made in this film. As I said, it covers about 40%. We cannot make all of them. On the other hand, we cannot take the characters on the Vietnamese side and leaders that I met to film. These points can be understood in the form of commentary by the writer and/or director […]

(11) When Hun Sen is in tears, no understanding for peace destroyers

[…] At first, I thought I was going to make you laugh. However, when I talked about my past life, I shed tears. This is why I am stubborn with those who destroy peace. Remember that (when) Hun Sen sheds tears, do not hope that Hun Sen can give understanding to those who destroy the peace of Cambodia […] I am not a fool with power and I do not let those who intend to destroy this peace do whatever they want […] no matter what the cost, we will keep the peace. My grief is a symbol of the grief of the people […]

(12) Continuing filming to the birth of the eldest daughter and the Khmer Rouge shot and killed the father-in-law

[…] The story is long. It has just filmed about 60% of it. Previously, I planned to finish by 1979 after I met my wife and children on February 24, 1979 and a little later. Now I think I will go on until my daughter is born because it involves more grief […] my wife had another miscarriage […] and the saddest thing was that the Khmer Rouge came and shot my father-in-law at his home. At that time, my wife was pregnant with my eldest daughter. This story will be filmed to show that after the liberation of the country, the war continued and even the father-in-law of a foreign minister was shot dead […]./.

(1) Where there is no peace, there is no talk about democracy or human rights

[…] I wanted to emphasize here that we continue to prioritize peacekeeping efforts in our country. We do not care what (might) happen. Whoever intends or acts to destroy the peace in our country, (we) will not be afraid to use all means to take action at any cost to maintain peace and ensure the development of the country. Peace must come first. Without peace, there can be no talk about democracy or human rights. We have to think about the right to life first. I hope that the Cambodian people who have gone through the hardships of war as well as the genocidal regime can understand the measures that the Royal Government had taken in the past to maintain peace […]

(2) Weaponizing at the request of Kompong Thom’s then governor Do Sohan to thwart the Khmer Rouge

Some (of the leaders from those days) are old and some are dead, such as Do Sohan and Keo Horn, then party secretary and provincial governor. I came here. I brought along four of my five children here. Maybe my eldest daughter can still remember. At that time, Manet did not come. My wife went to Laos. I stayed here for a few nights. Perhaps Samdech Pichey Sena Tea Banh remembers […] when HE Do Sohan, who came to welcome me at the border between Kompong Thom and Kampong Cham, insisted on requesting weapons to equip the forces being attacked by the Khmer Rouge at that time. From National Road 7 in Baray district, I called to Samdech Pichey Sena Tea Banh, who was in Phnom Penh, to transport 700 pieces of weapons to Kampong Thom province immediately. At that stage, even in this city, there was no electricity. It was very difficult […]

(3) At all cost, no hesitation to destroy forces that seek to destroy peace

Later, HE Sin Song came to rest at that same house (that I did with my children). The house where I brought my children to rest was later shelled (by the Khmer Rouge forces). Accompanied my tour then, His Excellency Cheam Yeap, who is currently the First Vice President of the National Assembly, is still alive. Others, such as HE Em Sam An and HE Chhim Seng, passed away already. War it like this. Separation occurred. Now, we no longer have fear (because of the war). In the war time, we did not have the opportunity to meet like this. If there were such a rally, the Khmer Rouge forces would have shelled into the city of Kampong Thom. In this regard, I repeatedly emphasize that, at all costs, we are not hesitant to take actions to destroy forces that seek to destroy the peace […]

(4) Villages, communes and localities organize and maintain security to attract tourists

[…] I should say that no tourists want to visit places of insecurity/instability. Therefore, all villages, communes and localities must take responsibility if they want to have both national and international tourism (coming to their areas). Let us ensure that there are no thieves, robbers or any insecurity for tourists there. (Having done this, we will be able to develop) not only for the tourism sector (but also for) the production exhibited in the booths of the provinces and communities this evening. I am satisfied (with those achievements) and reminisce about the past (and) compared to the present […]

(5) Imagine that Cambodia will produce the most cashews in the world

Each booth (in the water festival exhibition here in Kompong Thom) has a responsible and quality production that can supply the local market and export. I am imagining that we will become the largest cashew producer in the world. To date, our (cashew products) have surpassed that of Cote d’Ivoire – who produced 1.1 million tons. Cambodia now has 1.18 million tons. I hope that in the future, with peace, combined with the policy of safe villages and communes, Cambodia will attract tourists, but more importantly, the production that serves the needs of the people as well as the supply of tourism […]

(6) Less land management problems in the Tonle Sap region

At this point, I should emphasize and thank His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister Chea Sophara, as well as the leaders of relevant institutions, provincial authorities, who have done a good job (in resolving land management issue in the Tonle Sap region). So far, not much problem is left. I would like to remind you to finish it completely. We have divided Tonle Sap into three zones – Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3. In the first area we allow ownership of property to the people. The second area is where people can depend on in cultivation and fishing, etc. The third area is a no-touch area. However, we also allow some villages, communes, to stay there since people have been living for 200 or 300 years already. We cannot get them out. We have to border their location and let them stay as a special case […]

(7) Infrastructural connectivity between Kampong Thom and Kampong Chhnang provinces, and Kampong Thom and Kratie provinces

[…] As His Excellency Sun Chanthol, Minister of Transports and Public Works, traveled and confirmed, and I also confirmed it in Kampong Chhnang, we now need to build a bridge and a road from Kampong Chhnang to Kampong Thom. We have decided to apply for a loan from the People’s Republic of China to implement this project […] on the other hand, we would like to inform the people of Kampong Thom that Kampong Thom also connects by another river, the Mekong River, so that traveling to Kratie will be easy and closer. In Kratie town, we have already launched the construction of the bridge across the Mekong River. The Tonle Sap and the Mekong, which were previously far apart, are being brought closer by connecting transport infrastructures […]

(8) For the 58 km road, many bridges needed to facilitate water flow and traffics

To build this road-bridge connectivity (between Kompong Chhnang and Kompong Thom), we have to have open gates for waterway traffics. In the course of HE Sun Chanthol’s works with the (construction) company, the project has had to withn the span of only 58 kilometers so many bridges to facilitate the flow of water and traffic of people in the rainy season. I mention this point so that people understand before making any comments. Though I consider the people of Kampong Thom to be the lucky ones, there is one unfortune thing for them. It is fortunate that Kampong Thom sits on the way to Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampong Cham, Preah Vihear, and Kratie, and soon Kampong Chhnang too – but travelers do not stop and stay […]

(9) Kampong Thom should have special local products for sale to tourists/passers-by

Kampong Thom may be in a difficult situation (in attracting tourists to stay.) Tourists go back and forth. They do not stop and stay. Building a hotel in the provincial town of Kampong Thom is difficult (for business), but if you build a restaurant, the business may be good because people will stop for food. Food could be attractive in Kampong Thom. Traveling to Siem Reap, people/tourists stop and enjoy food/lunch in Kampong Thom. Kompong Thom authority needs to find something to compensate so that the people of Kampong Thom can get benefits. One thing is they can sell things that are local and special products in the province. Tourists/passers-by can buy, and take with them as souvenirs […]

(10) Kampong Thom’s potential is agronomy/agriculture, cashew nuts in abundance

Although less favorable in the tourism sector, only the hotel sector is affected. Do not forget that tourists will come to visit Sambor Prei Kuk and other places […] and the strength of Kampong Thom is agriculture, crop cultivation. We saw it in the booths (at the exhibition). Cashews in this province are abundant. I expect that when we have enough processing industry, Kampong Thom will have more cultivated land (for cashew nuts). Nationwide, if I am not mistaken, there are now up to 700,000 hectares. When processing is in place, we can expect a million hectares (under cashew nuts) […]

(11) Supply for tourists’ consumption or export on the spot – a priority destination

It can be said that Cambodia will become a leading country in exporting and supplying the world market for cashew nuts. Our production above does not only refer to cross-border exports. Supplying to tourists have been the goal and priority of our policy from the beginning until now, and there has been no change. It is the export on the spot. We produced and brought to tourists for consumption – both good rice, meat and other products […]./.

[…] I have approved the request of HE Mam Bunheng, Minister of Health, to transfer back 15 million doses of vaccine that has not yet been shipped to Cambodia, as we currently have 6 million doses left in stock and there is only a small number of people to get it … we transfer to our China friend so that they can share it with countries that are in need. (On the other hand) we cannot hold the vaccine for its expiration […]

(2) From hungry stomach to full, to be full and delicious, and now to be safe too

[…] After the Pol Pot regime, we just did whatever we could to fill our stomachs … later, not only are we full, we try to be full and delicious. Now the problem has arrived, it has to be delicious and healthy. That is the problem that we have to think together … (taking) the case of a beautification, someone died in a surgery at a beauty salon …  there are numerous cases concerning beautification. We do not know what the next day will bring … (as for this food safety) it has to do with production as well. If the production is appropriate, it provides the healthy food for our people and they are safe and healthy […]

(3) Do not allow Cambodians to be subject to drug testing by any country

[…] Before importing anything, make sure it is safe. Do not let Cambodians be the ones to be tested for drugs by any country. They use it effectively and clearly safe, we then order to use in our country … I still remember exactly what I said. Cambodia is not a dumping ground for outdated technology. I announced in 1988. Cambodia does not have to accept anything that is outdated, including digital systems. There is no such thing as “old stuff in other countries become new ones in our country” […]

(4) Singers do not take drinks with high sugars, just sip it, to avoid diabetes We must now respond to challenging problems […] we must try every way we can to avoid problems causing from unhealthy food as it increases the (country’s burden). I am worried about singers and entertainers (that they may have diabetes in the future). Why will they catch diabetes? Contracting to sing for Carabao (energy drink), they had to Carabao. Tomorrow, they will go to the Bacchus to taste Bacchus. After tomorrow they sing for Ichitan (they also drink Ichitan). I would like to reprimand the singers as well as the MCs who have to taste them, to just sip it […]./.

(1) Youth for national culture

[…] At this point, I would like to emphasize that in the past we chose a different topic for each year. Since 2015, the theme of youth for national culture has been consistent at all stages of every year, because the youth will be the ones to take turns from us. Therefore, in the future, there is no need to bring up a different topic than youth for national culture […]

(2) Attention must be paid on Khmer writing

At this point, I should emphasize that we must make efforts with special attention to the issue of Khmer writing. So far, I have noted incorrect use of our language, where people confused with words, used wrong words for wrong context, etc. … this is a small point in the evolution of Khmer literature, and with the increasing use of social media, incorrect writing appears to be worried. It is a good thing that in each smart phone there is always a dictionary of Samdech Preah Sang Chuon Nath there. But we must continue to work to strengthen the capacity of Khmer literature for our citizens […]

With only 64 days away, Cambodia will have the honor of hosting the SEA Games, an event that I have been waiting for more than half of my life.

(3) Statues or Buddhist statues required correct standard and style

[…] I would like to mention that the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, as well as relevant institutions, that they must pay attention to the construction of statues or Buddhist statues as those artifacts must be done in style. If the construction is not in accordance with the rules and is incorrect, when the official ceremony is celebrated, no one will dare to demolish it as they are afraid of supernatural danger. Well, that thing would be left untouched for hundreds of years to come, leading the next generation to misunderstanding the real Khmer art form […]

(4) Despite the modern material, keep the tradition of things from the past

At this point, I have already decided that out of the 1.5 million students who need to be trained in technical expertise, between 2% to 4% is reserved for the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts to train ancestral professions heritage. We must take this point into account, and not neglect and underestimate. What I fear most is the loss of (those professions and products for) modern equipment. Everything is modern, people are abandoning the traditions and things we used to have in the past. I urge you to pay special attention to the construction of statues and Buddhist statues […]

(5) Buddhist philanthropists or wealthy people sponsor Pin Peat and Chai Yam music bands

[…] We must be striving to urge the Buddhist monasteries to help us with at least two important traditional music bands – Pin Peat and Chai Yam. I am calling on all the monks, pagoda head monks, as well as the pagoda committee to increase the attention in attracting the support of philanthropists, Buddhists perishioners or the rich to help the temples acquire their music bands of Pin Peat (and Chai Yam) […] we need to train people to use this Pin Peat music insturments. At the same time, there should also be the Chai Yam music band in the Buddhist temples […] the temples can contribute to the preservation of the ancient orchestra, the Pin Peat and Chaiyam […]

(6) Find diplomatic ways to avoid conflicts over cultural issues

[…] I would like to make a suggestion regarding the ownership contest. This issue should not nurture a protracted conflict […] today, there are things that happen in boxing martial arts, which Cambodians call Kun Khmer and Thais call it Muoy Thai, while Laos and Myanmar have their own versions. We know that in our temples there is a real martial art bas relief, but can we (based on this argument to) have a dialogue […] and coordinate with the countries involved? Can we register together in the framework of UNESCO Intangible Heritage, as we have previously registered together in rope pulling game […]

I want to use diplomacy to contribute through cultural relations to the promotion of political relations. On this point, I would like to suggest the Minister of Culture to figure out research, and start a consultation process with local elders of related sectors in Cambodia. What are the things that we can raise as initiatives as there are going to be meetings in the framework of CMV or CLMV […] and especially in the framework of ACMECS which includes Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam?

Most (of the issues) are related to the four countries in the framework of CLMV, and we can have a way to help solve the conflict on (intangible arts) ownership. Of course, our brothers and sisters have the right to express their concerns on this issue and what I am talking now is just a consideration on the matter. We are not going to lose anything, and if we were to take it from Thailand, would Thailand be willing to give it to us? They do not want to give, and if Thailand wants to take from us, we do not want to give them too. That will be the dead end […]./.