AKP Phnom Penh, June 14, 2025 --

Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen has praised the comprehensive measures introduced by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet to assist Cambodian workers returning from Thailand in finding new employment or starting new businesses.

In a message posted on his official social media accounts this afternoon, Samdech Techo Hun Sen urged Cambodian workers to return home before facing possible expulsion or mistreatment by Thai authorities.

“I say this because I clearly understand that the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute will be prolonged, especially as Cambodia files a lawsuit with the International Court of Justice (ICJ). In such a situation, some Thai extremists and elements within the Thai military may seek to harm you. This is a real and inevitable risk,” he warned.

Samdech Techo Hun Sen also reaffirmed that any Cambodian national is welcome to return home, regardless of how long they have lived in Thailand or whether they possess official Cambodian documents.

He further quoted Prime Minister Hun Manet’s message confirming the Royal Government’s preparedness to manage a potential large-scale return of Cambodian migrant workers from Thailand.

According to the Premier, relevant ministries and institutions, all branches of the armed forces, and the administrations of the seven provinces bordering Thailand are ready to facilitate border crossings and provide temporary accommodation and food for returning workers in the border areas.

The Ministry of National Defence, the Army, and the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration are also preparing transportation to help returnees travel from the border to their respective hometowns. 

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training stands ready to assist them in securing employment in the country, where there is currently an average labour shortage of more than 70,000 workers.

In addition, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, along with other relevant ministries and institutions, is prepared to support the reintegration of returning workers through a range of economic and social intervention packages aimed at improving their daily lives.

At the same time, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet called on the Association of Banks in Cambodia and the Cambodia Microfinance Association to consider measures to ease the financial burden of returning workers, particularly those with existing debts, within a reasonable timeframe and based on institutional capacity.

“When our country and our Cambodian people face problems, the spirit of national unity and mutual assistance is the strength of our Cambodian nation,” the Prime Minister emphasised.

By C. Nika