The Cambodian government recently issued a sub-decree on implementing the national social-protection programme to improve the lives of poor and vulnerable people, accelerate a sustainable exit from poverty and stimulate local economic development. All relevant specialist officials therefore need to implement the programme effectively.
Chea Somethy, Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation, made the remarks at the February 9, 2026 ceremony announcing Suy Sopheak Vibol’s appointment as director of the Kampot provincial department of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation.
The minister said the recent sub-decree set out measures, procedures, conditions, management mechanisms and benefits under the national programme. Its objectives were to promote an exit from poverty, improve poor and vulnerable people’s living standards, accelerate sustainable development and stimulate the local economy.
He urged relevant officials, especially the newly appointed director, to fulfil their leadership and coordination duties between managers and subordinates in serving victims and vulnerable people. Their work should effectively follow the government’s policy programme, phase one of the Pentagonal Strategy and the 2024–2028 strategic development plan for Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation.
They should cooperate and maintain good relations with the ministry’s specialist units, the provincial administration, local authorities at every level and other provincial bodies. They should also work with the subcommittee managing homeless people, the provincial administration and local authorities to handle matters involving homeless people, people with mental-health conditions and people begging in public places, which the minister said affected public order and provincial tourism.
Kampot Governor Mao Thonin said appointments of department and unit heads in the province first required agreement from officials in the relevant department or unit. The provincial administration would then assess competence, capability, qualifications, virtue, ethics and leadership potential before forwarding a proposal. By: Pai Sokhim.
