AKP Phnom Penh, May 12, 2026 -- 
Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has called for a shift in public perception of military service, urging people to view it not as a burden, but as an honour and responsibility for Cambodian youth and their families. 
Speaking at the National Assembly (NA) on Tuesday morning ahead of the unanimous approval of the draft law on military service, Samdech Thipadei stressed the importance of strengthening Cambodia’s human resources to safeguard peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. 
“Cambodia is no different from other countries around the world. We must strengthen our people’s capacity in order to turn challenges into opportunities, especially in maintaining peace and protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said. 
The Prime Minister underlined that Cambodia must rely primarily on its own strength to preserve peace and national security. 
“We cannot rely entirely on others to protect our peace. Recent experiences have clearly shown that no one can help us completely at all times except ourselves,” he stated. 
Samdech Thipadei noted that many countries are increasingly adopting the principle of “peace through strength,” adding that Cambodia must also reinforce its own national capacity. 
“The pursuit and preservation of peace cannot depend solely on external assistance. We must help ourselves,” he emphasised. 
According to the Prime Minister, the draft law is an important mechanism to develop capable human resources for national defence while also fostering patriotism, discipline, ethics, and professionalism among citizens. 
“This law is necessary and indispensable for strengthening national defence and national unity. It not only contributes to protecting peace and territorial integrity, but also helps build disciplined and capable human resources for the nation,” he said. 
The National Assembly approved the draft law during an extraordinary session held at the NA Palace under the chairmanship of NA President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary. 
All 114 lawmakers present voted in favour of the draft law, which consists of eight chapters and 20 articles. 
Under the proposed legislation, all male Cambodian citizens aged between 18 and 25 will be required to complete 24 months of military service, in line with practices in several countries worldwide. Military service for women will remain voluntary. 
The implementation is expected to begin in 2026, with registration starting from the age of 17. Exemptions will apply to Buddhist monks, religious clergy, citizens with exceptional academic or professional qualifications, and persons with disabilities. 
The Royal Government stated that the 2006 military service law no longer fully reflects current realities, making the revision necessary to strengthen national defence, protect territorial integrity, and instill patriotism among future generations. 
The revised framework is also expected to support structured recruitment and provide young citizens with discipline, training, and practical skills that can benefit both military and civilian life.

By Heng Panha