AKP Phnom Penh, October 10, 2025 -- 

Minister of Health, H.E. Prof. Cheang Ra this week presided over the opening ceremony of the 7th Neonatal and Pediatric Conference, held under the crucial theme: “Strengthening Capacity for Pediatric Healthcare Service: from Prevention to Treatment.”

The conference, which took place on Oct. 9, serves as a vital platform for sharing knowledge and best practices focused on the early prevention and management of diseases. 

The ultimate goal is to reduce complications and significantly enhance the quality of life for Cambodians, particularly mothers, infants, and children, as strengthening maternal and child health remains a core pillar in developing the nation's human capital.

In his keynote address, Minister Cheang Ra delivered a strong call to action, urging health sector leaders and officials to prioritise capacity building and uphold the highest standards of professional ethics, compassion, and integrity. This, he stressed, is essential for earning the public trust and respect necessary for the medical profession.

He further emphasised the critical need for optimising existing resources, fostering innovation, and finding practical, actionable solutions to strengthen both institutional and national health development.

The Minister also directed health officials to continuously enhance their skills and knowledge, promoting the sharing of experiences with colleagues to ensure the provision of quality, safe, and equitable health care services without discrimination. "The neonatal and pediatric health is crucial for the country’s future, and maternal health must also remain a high priority,” he underlined.

H.E. Prof. Cheang Ra expressed sincere appreciation to the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH) and other development partners for their valuable contributions toward improving the quality of health services. He specifically commended the National Pediatric Hospital for its pivotal role in human resource development through the training of provincial health staff and advancing institutional capacity.

He concluded by encouraging the conference's diverse attendees—medical doctors, nurses, midwives, and other health professionals from both public and private sectors—to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and collaborate with international experts to strengthen pediatric health services comprehensively, from disease prevention to care and treatment. 

He reinforced that child health is a top priority for the Ministry of Health in its mission to enhance the overall well-being and safety of the Cambodian people.

The conference successfully gathered some 260 participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Health, representatives from national hospitals and centres, partner organisations, and Mr. Song Yonggun, Country Director of KOFIH in Cambodia.

By K. Rithy Reak