AKP Phnom Penh, September 17, 2025 --

The Spokesperson for the Ministry of Information, H.E. Tep Asnarith, has called on provincial information departments to develop concrete human resource development plans to ensure continuity in the information and audiovisual sector and to keep pace with rapid technological change.

During a meeting with officials of the Battambang Provincial Information Department on Sept. 16, H.E. Tep Asnarith stressed that human resource training is vital for improving work quality, fulfilling professional responsibilities, and effectively addressing public information needs.

H.E. Tep Asnarith, who also serves as Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Information, emphasised that training should be systematically integrated into departmental plans. He highlighted the importance of senior and experienced officials in transferring knowledge and skills to younger officers through structured and regular training programmes.

He cautioned that without such plans, institutions risk facing a generational gap in expertise. “Once senior officials retire or are reassigned, the lack of capable professionals will undermine institutional performance and long-term sustainability,” he warned.

The Spokesperson further encouraged provincial departments to consider retaining experienced officials beyond retirement age as contract officers or advisors to mentor and guide the next generation.

By Heng Panha