AKP Phnom Penh, May 19, 2025 --

Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly, presided over a public forum on the “Social Protection System in Cambodia,” held here on May 19 at the National Assembly Palace.

The forum, jointly organised by the 8th Commissions of the National Assembly and the Senate, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training and the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, brought together around 300 participants.

In her opening remarks, Samdech Khuon Sudary emphasised that the social protection system is a timely and critical issue in the current socio-economic context; moreover, it was identified as one of the three key national topics to be deliberated at the upcoming Congress of the National Assembly and the Senate on June 2-3, 2025.

She remarked that the forum not only celebrated recent achievements but also aimed to promote a more resilient, inclusive, and effective social protection system that aligned with the Pentagonal Strategy–Phase 1 and guided by the principle of “leaving no one behind” to support sustainable, inclusive, equitable and resilient growth.

Samdech Khuon Sudary expected that the forum’s outcomes would provide useful input for Members of Parliament in shaping strategic policy directions to enhance the social system’s effectiveness, accountability, and credibility.

Underscoring the role of Parliamentarians, she stated that comprehensive, scientific, accurate, and up-to-date information is essential for Members of Parliament to effectively fulfill their legislative and oversight responsibilities in serving the people.

“Everything depends on people, so the people must have good health, knowledge, professional skills, and moral integrity,” she said.

Reflecting on Cambodia’s social protection journey, the National Assembly President praised the visionary leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate and former Prime Minister, for prioritising social welfare and justice through various legal, strategic, and policy initiatives.

Since the adoption of the Social Security Law in 2019, Cambodia has expanded protection to both private and public sectors. Reforms in 2024 included coverage of occupational risks and health insurance for public employees.

Samdech Khuon Sudary conveyed her deep respect and gratitude to Samdech Techo Hun Sen for his relentless dedication and sacrifices—not only in liberating the country but also in rebuilding and modernising the nation with a strong focus on the people’s well-being and dignity.

She also commended the current Royal Government, led by Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, for its dynamic and strategic leadership in building a modern, efficient, and financially sustainable social protection system. She called for continued efforts with bold transformative leadership in driving social protection to new heights.

Samdech Khuon Sudary acknowledged the accomplishments of the National Social Protection Council and relevant institutions in expanding coverage, reducing poverty, and addressing socio-economic vulnerabilities during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters.

She stressed the importance of working together towards building a social protection system that is resilient, integrated, effective, and comprehensive.

By Chea Vannak