AKP Phnom Penh, January 02, 2026 --

More than 1,800 families displaced by recent Thai troops’ incursion received essential food and supplies on New Year’s Day as part of a Royal Government-led humanitarian relief effort in northwest Cambodia.

The distribution, held Thursday in Thmar Puok district, targeted 1,812 families categorised as "displaced citizens" (internally displaced persons or returnees). The initiative was organised by the Royal Government Working Group for Banteay Meanchey province to alleviate living costs and provide social support at the start of 2026.

Ms. Yeu Asikin, deputy head of the Royal Government Working Group for Thmar Puok, led the ceremony on behalf of Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries H.E. Dith Tina. 

Addressing the gathered families, Ms. Asikin delivered a message of support from Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

"The nation's top leadership—across the Senate, National Assembly, and the executive branch—will never abandon citizens during difficult times," she said. "This direct outreach serves as a testament to the Royal Government’s commitment to displaced families, who remain a priority in our national heart."

The aid packages, which included food staples and household necessities, were donated by the Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen; Cambodian Red Cross President Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen; Samdech Thipadei Prime Minister Hun Manet; and the First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony.

Ms. Yeu Asikin also urged residents to maintain their confidence in the administration of Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, emphasizing that political stability is the foundation for continued rural development.

Recipients expressed gratitude for the timely intervention. "In our times of hardship, the Royal Government and local authorities are the ones who stand by us," said a representative for the displaced families.

While Cambodia has seen rapid economic growth in urban areas, the Royal Government continues to rely on targeted aid distributions to support vulnerable populations in remote border regions like Banteay Meanchey, which historically served as a frontline during decades of civil strife.

By K. Rithy Reak