Cambodia First Lady Vows “No One Left Behind” as State Backs Military Families Amid Border Dispute


Cambodia’s First Lady, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet, affirmed on Tuesday that the Royal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting military families and displaced civilians, ensuring that “no one is left behind” as the country manages ongoing border tensions.

Speaking during a humanitarian mission in Kampong Cham province, the First Lady emphasised that providing for those on the front lines and their dependents is a top priority for the administration led by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

“The welfare of military families and displaced persons is a primary concern for the Royal Government,” she told attendees. “Beyond the strategic defence of our sovereignty, we are focused on providing safe shelter, emergency food supplies, and consistent healthcare services.”

In a move to institutionalise support, the First Lady announced plans to establish a dedicated foundation. The fund aims to mobilise resources for vocational training and educational scholarships for the children of military personnel.

“We want to ensure that the children of our heroes have the opportunity to complete their education and gain specific skills to secure their future livelihoods,” she added.

Addressing the current geopolitical climate, Dr. Chanmony urged citizens and displaced residents to maintain confidence in the state’s diplomatic strategy. She noted that the Royal Government of Cambodia is currently preparing legal documentation to resolve territorial disputes through international law and international courts.

The First Lady also conveyed messages of solidarity from Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, Cambodian Red Cross President Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen, and Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet.

Kampong Cham Governor H.E. Un Chanda reported that local authorities have already intensified efforts to provide free healthcare and food security to affected families. He highlighted a special housing initiative where the Prime Minister’s office has purchased land and constructed homes for the families of fallen soldiers who were previously landless.

During Tuesday’s event, families received essential supplies including rice and food staples. In a targeted social assistance gesture, pregnant women in military families were granted an additional 2 million Riel (approx. US$500), while several families of fallen soldiers received motorcycles to assist with mobility and livelihood.