AKP Banteay Meanchey, April 11, 2025 --

The Poipet International Border Checkpoint is experiencing a surge of activity as large numbers of Cambodian migrant workers employed in Thailand are returning home to celebrate the traditional Khmer New Year.

Since the beginning of the week, buses, motorcycles, and even individuals on foot have been steadily crossing the border, creating a vibrant scene of homecoming.

Recognising the needs of these returning workers, Brigadier General Yi Chamroeun, Chief of the Poipet Police Station, has deployed his team to collaborate with Thai authorities at the Khlong Luek International Border in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. Their joint efforts are focused on ensuring a smooth and efficient re-entry process, marked by welcoming gestures and warm hospitality.

In a heartwarming initiative, Poipet police officers and other relevant authorities are distributing thoughtful souvenir packages to the returning workers. Each package contains a beautifully designed krama (traditional Cambodian scarf), a refreshing bottle of drinking water, and a piece of bread to provide sustenance for their onward journey.

This compassionate act has been met with immense gratitude from the returning workers.

Srey Noch, 32, who travelled from Rayong province in Thailand, expressed her joy, stating, “I’m so happy to be back and reunite with my family for the New Year. Receiving the krama, water, and bread from the police at the border really warmed my heart and gave me the strength to continue my journey home.”

Srey Noch, a native of Banteay Meanchey province, also highlighted the significant relief of not having to pay entry or exit fees at the international border. “It’s such a relief to return home during the New Year without having to pay these fees. It eases our financial burden significantly,” she said. She further expressed her appreciation to the Royal Government of Cambodia, Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, and the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training for their dedicated efforts in supporting overseas workers, particularly in negotiating the annual exemption of border-crossing service fees, which she described as a deeply considerate gesture.

Brigadier General Yi Chamroeun explained that the distribution of souvenirs is intended to demonstrate care and provide encouragement to workers who have faced hardships abroad and are now undertaking the long journey home to be with their families during this significant cultural celebration.

He confirmed that krama (scarves), bread, and bottled water will continue to be distributed to all returning workers at Poipet until April 17, 2025.

Regarding the volume of returning workers, Brigadier General Chamroeun reported that approximately 20,000 Cambodian workers had crossed into the country via the Poipet International Border in the ten days leading up to April 10. He anticipates that this number will continue to rise as the Khmer New Year holiday draws nearer.

Meanwhile, authorities at the Poipet International Border Checkpoint are actively managing traffic flow and prioritising the safety and public order of all returning migrant workers. Their visible presence underscores the strong sense of community and the deep emotional connection to family and homeland that are central to Cambodian national unity.

It is important to note that, as part of this year's Khmer New Year celebrations, Cambodian and Thai leaders have mutually agreed to waive exit and entry service fees at all international border checkpoints between the two nations, facilitating a smoother and more affordable return for Cambodian migrant workers.

By K. Rithy Reak