Extensive excerpts by Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet at the Official Inauguration of National Road No. 10 (Total Length – 198.518 km) [Unofficial excerpts and translations]

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(1) National Road No. 10 is built along a difficult route and geographical terrain

I am also delighted to be back. I remember over a year ago, in May, I came here for an inauguration event as well—specifically, the achievements at Pramaoy High School … Looking at the photos from the groundbreaking ceremony in 2020, HE Sun Chanthol was still having black hair. Now, both of our hairs have turned white. Time evolves …

According to the report by His Excellency Peng Ponea, the achievements here—the construction of National Road No. 10—are no ordinary feat. If we look at the route alignment and the geography, it is very challenging. There are mountainous areas, natural resource conservation areas, combined with steep slopes in some places that required leveling.

If we look at the road, in some sections it is completely straight, while at other spots, we have what is called ‘snake curves’ (serpentine loops). People might think it looks easy to build, but it requires high-level techniques and maintenance. In mountainous regions, construction is not the only challenge; maintaining it, preventing water erosion, and avoiding landslides are also difficult. We see this as a great achievement and a source of pride for the citizens across these three provinces.

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(2) National Road No. 10 reduces distance, lowers transport costs, and unlocks potential opportunities

The traveling distance has been shortened [by this National Road No. 10]. What does this shortened distance translate into? It translates to lower transportation costs and creates opportunities for our citizens to [spend their time more productively].

Now, people traveling from Pursat to Sihanoukville no longer need to go through Phnom Penh; they can take this road to Route 48, and from Route 48 connect to National Road No. 4 or the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway. The same goes for the return trip […]

Now, traveling to Koh Kong can also be done via this route. Thus, we are bringing the sea closer to the mountains, and soon, we will bring even more coastal visitors up to enjoy the mountains, because the road enables a smooth flow of travelers in both directions. The Pramaoy area in Veal Veng district features beautiful landscapes and is a place of great potential opportunities.

I have visited this area before; the potential here has existed for thousands of years. However, it lacked the conditions and attributes we have today. When I came to inaugurate the Pramaoy Primary School and High School, a place that previously had barely a few hundred households now has nearly a thousand families …

(3) Samdech Techo’s Win-Win Policy created the vision of connecting roads to the Northwest

I once came here back in 2013-2014, when there was still no paved asphalt road. There were very few houses along Route 55 at that time. Back then, we brought donations to distribute to the troops in Thma Da. It was during the flood season, and we traveled up via ‘Chen Yum’ (Weeping Chinese). I was wearing a pedometer watch. Every step we took, it counted one step; when it reached 10,000 steps, it would set off celebratory fireworks […]

Because the road was so bumpy, the watch thought we had walked 10,000 steps! As far as I know, back then traveling from Pramaoy to Koh Kong was impossible. The road was difficult, and parts of it were even cut off. Now, traveling is easy … Back then, it was even worse than during the wartime conflicts. This road used to be like Route 56, known as a place of bloodshed …

[Yet up to now], step by step, it has grown stronger, better, and more developed. Samdech Techo’s Win-Win Policy not only created the vision to build infrastructure connecting to the Northwest, but it also created a favorable environment for construction. Without the Win-Win Policy, the entire belt from Pailin and the western border, including Samlot, Malai, and this very place, would not have attained peace, nor could we have built a road like this; there would have been no demining or road construction—only the laying of more landmines.

(4) Roads create hope, opportunities, the future, and further development

[It is Samdech Techo’s Win-Win Policy that] enabled us to reach this point. I would like to congratulate this achievement, which truly defines what development looks like. If someone just looks at the road here today, they might think, ‘What is there to boast about for just a road?’ But that is not the case. If we look at how bitter the history of this place was, how hard we have strived to achieve this, and the potential for moving forward, it is a point of pride that we can use as a gauge of true progress.

It is not just progress in infrastructure, but also opportunities for the people here to travel elsewhere, engage in economic activities, pursue education, build schools, and have teachers. People from various places also have had the opportunity to settle here, engage in various livelihoods, and cause the [economy] to grow rapidly. They say, ‘Where there is a road, there is hope’—roads create hope, opportunities, and the future, and [drive] further construction. Building roads and infrastructure is a top priority of the Royal Government. We have done a lot, and we will continue to do more. This is a prerequisite for the sustainable development of our country.

(5) NR55 is litter-free – a clean environmental road demonstrating public participation

National Road No. 10 is hidden in the middle of the forest along the Kravanh mountain range. Regarding the roads here in Pursat, I would like to express my admiration for the provincial administration, the Governor, the district administration, and local authorities who have worked hard to build and improve them.

From what I have seen on Facebook and experienced while riding here, firstly, Route 55 has no litter because it has been designated as a clean environmental road. I suggest taking this place as a role model for implementation. The key is sustainable implementation, starting from the initiative. Secondly, there is participation. While the province, district, and authorities lead the efforts, the most important factor is the participation of the citizens. Clean environments start with each individual citizen. Therefore, it is not just urban centers or major areas; everywhere, participation in environmental management creates comfort and regional appeal. So, thank you for this achievement.

Furthermore, along National Road No. 5 in the Pursat section, we notice they were the first to implement solar street lighting—neatly installed electrical systems. Second, trees are planted along the road and well-maintained. The first important thing about planting trees is the planting itself, but the second crucial part is maintenance. We see many roads where trees are planted—initially looking nice, but as maintenance fails… in some places, you have had to duck because the branches grow right out over the road. Maintenance is vital.

I asked His Excellency Khoy Rida [the Provincial Governor], seeing how he has built and organized spaces in the province to enhance aesthetics, and I would like to thank the national working group assisting the province, led by His Excellency Keo Rottanak, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, and Electricite du Campodge (EDC) … for adopting [this model] from Pursat province.

(6) The solar street lighting project will be expanded to 13 provinces

The other day I visited Kampong Chhnang, His Excellency Sun Sovannarith reported that they would continue installing them, and in Battambang province, His Excellency Sok Lu has also installed them. Thus, they are connected—running across Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, and Battambang along National Road No. 5. However, I would like to clarify with His Excellency Keo Rottanak that this project is not limited to just these 2 or 3 provinces. Phase 1 involves expanding the solar street lighting project to 13 provinces, covering 1,000 kilometers nationwide.

Plans are currently underway, and some provinces are negotiating to increase it up to 1,200 kilometers, with a budget of 6 million USD for this first phase. Electricite du Campodge (EDC) will continue to help promote this work. I would like to express my thanks. The 13 provinces include Phnom Penh Capital, Kandal, Kampong Chhnang, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, Kampong Speu, Takeo, Preah Sihanouk, Koh Kong, Kampot, and Kep.

I strongly support this implementation and hope that in the future, it will be expanded to all 25 capitals and provinces, especially along major roads, and national highways. Please continue such initiatives and arrangements. I fully support this because, first, it provides aesthetics, and second, it ensures safety.

(7) Public and civic welfare works must be approached with new thinking and innovation

Safety is paramount, especially on expressways—not only on BOT-style expressways, but also on the roads we have completed, such as National Road No. 5, which we consider a high-speed route because it is much faster than before. In the past, traveling from Kampong Chhnang to Battambang via Pursat meant driving on just a two-lane road that was difficult to navigate. This morning, traveling from Phnom Penh to this location took only three and a half hours. Previously, just driving from Pursat to Thmar Da took nearly five hours. So, it is high-speed.

This relates particularly to night safety, darkness, pedestrians crossing, and local residents living in the area. On this point, I congratulate and further encourage this initiative. Additional thanks to Electricite du Campodge, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, as well as all participating provinces—especially Pursat province here, which took the lead and helped drive this forward.

Whatever is done for the public good and the welfare of our citizens is work that must be carried out. The plans are already in place, but fresh thinking and innovation in implementation are vital.

(8) Only when villages, communes, districts, towns, and provinces thrive can the entire nation thrive

It is also fortunate that technological systems now make it favorable for us to install solar power. If we had to rely solely on traditional grid electricity for 1,000 kilometers like before, it would have been difficult to find the funds for the connection. Now, using solar energy, our expenses are limited to the installation itself. I asked His Excellency Keo Rottanak, and we are being innovative here too: the steel poles are not imported from abroad. Previously, we imported them at a high cost.

Now, we produce them domestically, giving Cambodians and local artisans the opportunity to earn an income through self-reliance, backed by the actual capacity to manufacture them. This is a great endeavor, and I support it. This is comprehensive thinking—not just putting up poles, but considering the entire production chain. While we cannot yet manufacture the light bulbs themselves, some solar bulbs are already being made locally. If we can consider domestic light bulb production in the future, it will reduce costs even further.

I notice that some districts and communes have also installed solar lighting, supported by philanthropists, districts, communes, and working groups. I encourage everyone to pitch in and help create various achievements for citizens nationwide. For our country to grow, individual cells must thrive. Only when a single village, a single commune, a single district, a single town, and a single province prosper can the entire nation prosper.

(9) National Road No. 10 will facilitate transport all the way to Sihanoukville Port or Koh Kong Port

I would like to further encourage and drive creativity and the creation of new achievements for the public. Regarding National Road No. 10, apart from shortening travel distance and reducing travel costs, it creates possibilities for interlinked chains and economic corridors stretching from the Northwest to the Southwest. This was Samdech Techo’s vision for economic connectivity, which at the same time ensures our flexibility and resilience.

For example, when we have disputes with Thailand and all border checkpoints in the Northwest are closed, where do our agricultural products go? We make certain adjustments. Ultimately, this road plays a role in connecting and strengthening our resilience. In the future, this road will also facilitate transport from here all the way to Sihanoukville Port or Koh Kong Port. In Koh Kong, we are arranging to develop a deep-water port; although it has not yet been implemented, that location holds great potential for the future.

(10) Building backbone connecting roads in all directions to facilitate and generate economic opportunities

From Koh Kong, a road is now being built across to Oral. Thus, in the near future, traveling from Pursat to Phnom Penh will offer multiple choices. In the past, there was only one choice: National Road No. 5. If National Road No. 5 was cut off or closed anywhere, we would face traffic jams or be forced to detour all the way through Siem Reap. Now we have this route.

As His Excellency Peng Ponea just mentioned, some compatriots travel to Phnom Penh via this road because of the beautiful scenery, though those prone to motion sickness might hesitate due to the numerous curves. It also saves time if heading to Sihanoukville or Koh Kong province. In the future, once you reach Koh Kong and travel a short distance on Route 48, you can branch onto another road cutting straight to Oral, Kampong Speu, and directly into Phnom Penh.

From Battambang province, we plan to build a connecting road to Siem Reap, so people from Battambang will no longer need to travel all the way up to Banteay Meanchey before heading further. Therefore, we will build more backbone roads to connect everywhere. In the future, in all directions—whether connecting the Northeast to the Southwest, or the North to the Northwest—there will be more arteries linking together to facilitate and generate opportunities. Wherever the arteries reach, they nourish the organs in that place. This means that wherever a road reaches, those areas will transform into economic zones.

(11) From Pursat to Pramaoy, houses now line the road continuously

Before NR 55 was properly built and connected, as far as I could see, very few people lived here because there were no high schools or primary schools like there are today. Now, connected all the way from Pursat to Pramaoy, houses stand side by side. When I came here in 2014, there were only isolated houses scattered about, and the road was just being expanded. You could only see electric utility poles. Now, the utility poles are almost hidden because there are houses everywhere. There are still poles, of course, but there are now so many different constructions.

When there are many houses, riding along doesn’t feel lengthy anymore; whereas when there was nothing, driving through felt desolate. This is evolution. Now, this place has also become a tourist destination. The Techo Peace Ruessei Chrum Bridge features structures where citizens can step down and take photos of the scenery.

I wanted to go there too, but having come several times, I still haven’t managed it. I asked someone just now, and they said it’s 30 kilometers away. If that’s the case, never mind—I’ll sneak away to visit another day. Sneaking away is much more fun than coming with a large entourage […]

(12) “Phnom 1500” – A hidden blossom along the 4-kilometer ‘Serpentine Loop’ road, one of a kind in Cambodia

I would like to take this opportunity to speak a bit about Phnom 1500. The Phnom 1500 area is known as the ‘Hidden Blossom’. The serpentine loop road spans about 4 kilometers—though the total road is over 100 kilometers long with many winding curves, this specific loop area is uniquely pristine, natural, and seemingly one of a kind in all of Cambodia.

However, there was a problem: in the past, nearly 90 households illegally occupied and settled in that area. Their constructions were unorganized, accompanied by some small-scale tourism investments—about 4 or 5 small tourism businesses.

As a matter of principle, I agreed at the time [to address it] under two conditions: First, provide appropriate solutions for the citizens. Even though they resided there illegally, we must handle the matter flexibly and pay close attention to the citizens’ well-being. We are not going to arrest or persecute them … Second, this location must be strictly preserved as public property. After resolving the issue, we cannot just hand it over to private investors or allow anyone to build private vacation homes there.

(13) The state provides land concessions, builds homes, grants ownership, and helps develop the area while obligating the protection of shared public assets

We must keep this place as public property and organize it properly, including replanting trees and setting up public infrastructure such as restrooms. Thank you to the working group—including His Excellency Keo Rottanak, the Ministry of Environment, the provincial administration, and relevant institutions—for resolving the issue here.

I am not cruel toward the citizens. We now have programs for landless citizens, such as the LASED project benefiting thousands to tens of families, veteran projects, and housing projects for the genuinely homeless. We arrange social land concessions, build houses, grant legal titles, and even help with development. We are not mean-spirited; that is our policy.

At the same time, however, we have the duty and obligation to protect shared assets. State property belongs to everyone. If the people of Pursat want these four hectares to be a magnificent shared heritage asset for Pursat province, we should grant it. We need to resolve things for the small number of people who actually live there. Upon inquiry, out of nearly 90 households, only 37 to 38 actually reside there. The rest are owners living in Phnom Penh, near Olympic Stadium, or elsewhere. Sometimes, when land appreciates in value, speculators rush in to buy it, or owners live as far away as abroad.

(14) Providing over 100 hectares of land about 15 kilometers from the old site, organized into a village infrastructure with asphalt roads, water, and electricity

So, what is the principle for handling this? It is the implementation of the Win-Win policy. We see that up to this point, nearly 90 households have accepted the solution. What is the solution? They vacate the area where they lacked legal ownership and unorganized structures, and move to a new location within the region where we help set up roads, clean water, electricity, and grant legal land titles.

Even though they had land there, they lacked legal rights. Legality on state land requires a sub-decree or an S.J.N. [Notice on Government Decision] from the Royal Government to convert state public land into state private land and carve it out for the citizens. But here, none of that existed, despite some claiming they had this or that document.

Therefore, nothing else needs to be done except to care for them properly. It was resolved [based on the recommendation] of the province and the working group by requesting over 100 hectares of land, organizing village infrastructure, providing land plots, constructing asphalt roads, installing clean water systems, providing free electricity connections, and allowing citizens to settle there.

Their previous location was not legal, beautiful though it was. We are relocating them to a nearby spot—about 15 kilometers away from the old site, still within the Pramoy area.”

(15) Investment companies are relocating from the ‘Hidden Blossom’ area based on a win-win solution

Therefore, we are not letting them go anywhere; we are simply taking the area associated with the ‘Hidden Blossom’ and making it a shared asset for the people of Pursat, in order to attract visitors from elsewhere to visit Pursat and explore this region. Up to this point, we have organized and arranged it. This means moving them from an area lacking legal ownership and unorganized structures—where some only had vacant land—to a place where the State helps set up roads, clean water, and electricity, and grants legal land titles. This is how the issue is resolved.

The 4 or 5 investment companies too must move out of that area as well, not just the citizens. The investors must also shift slightly outward, and there will be some compensation for them, ensuring mutual success. That location requires investment too, but the road spans hundreds of kilometers; we are only asking for those 4 kilometers. What are those 4 kilometers for? They are to be properly organized, with tree replanting, and public tourism infrastructure to serve the community and Pursat province, turning it into a true ‘Hidden Blossom’.

(16) Organizing the “Hidden Blossom” tourism infrastructure linked with the Pursat community

As far as I know, over 150,000 trees have already been replanted in cooperation with Australia’s Renaissance company, with thousands more planned. Infrastructure such as restrooms and other facilities is being arranged. I would like to see us link this with the local community so they can benefit from it. They will not own the land there; that land belongs to the State—the shared property of the province and the nation.

It is being established as a national tourist attraction—a ‘Hidden Blossom’ area that is one of a kind in the whole country—situated in Pursat so that the people of Pursat can reap the benefits. If people feel stressed in Pursat province, they can drive here in an hour … to enjoy the natural scenery, hygienic restrooms, and proper services. If it becomes an exceptional tourist spot. Nowadays, wherever we create communities where many people gather, I always insist on setting up an emergency medical post staffed by professional emergency doctors.

The other day when I visited Kirirom, I had them study this for Khnong Phsar as well, so we can have a post there because sometimes visitors twist their ankles or encounter snakes when venturing into the forest. Emergencies happen, so medical staff must be on standby.

(17) The 4-km “Serpentine Loop” area designated as a drum-beating landmark so tourists don’t just drive past

In the future, that location will not belong to any individual; it belongs to the State and is a shared asset. The reason I permitted this earlier is because they stated they would not take it for any single entity to monopolize; rather, it is reclaimed and returned to the citizens as a shared asset, developed as a ‘Hidden Blossom’ for our country within this Serpentine Loop area, so tourists can visit and derive benefits linked with the community.

As long as people come to enjoy those 4 kilometers and open shops nearby, beyond those 4 kilometers they will continue onward. The villages where they reside are nearby, and they can open restaurants and accommodations beyond the 4-kilometer stretch, where private ownership applies.

This means this spot acts as a ‘drum-beating’ landmark—people come to visit this specific location, and then they go out to dine and stay nearby, generating an economy for the local residents … Conversely, if we fail to manage this Serpentine Loop area, let it be cleared and fragmented, people will just drive past without stopping. Why stop when there’s nothing there except houses and standard buildings identical to everything seen all the way from Route 55.

(18) Forests at the Serpentine Loop attract tourists and generate income for the local community

This unique feature and special value are why we ask for the citizens’ understanding. Thank you to the citizens—out of nearly 90 households, about 86 or 87 have agreed. They have accepted the solution and are participating. This arrangement does not cause them any loss. They are moving to locations with legal ownership, replacing their previously unauthorized status. They receive state-assisted investments in asphalt roads, electricity, clean water, and local infrastructure, located close by rather than being displaced 300 kilometers away. It is right nearby so they can benefit from this area.

They say forests attract rain, but the forests at the Serpentine Loop attract tourists and bring income to the local community! It attracts both rain and people, funneling money into the community to drive development. I encourage organizing support infrastructure for tourists, such as restrooms and health emergency posts—not administrative posts, but emergency rescue stations for those engaging in hiking in the area. This location is also a historical site.

(19) If there is an issue, please come forward to discuss solutions rather than fabricating false content

Previously, there was a young woman claiming to be a local resident named Sem Sokhchea. Most of the time, she is shadowed by TFA, or free-media outlets like Free Asia. She has gone to cry out in front of the Ministry of Justice two or three times to protest. I asked His Excellency Keo Rottanak and His Excellency Koeut Rith to look into what her actual issue is so we can help resolve it.

First, she refused to cooperate; despite being invited multiple times, she wouldn’t show up. Upon investigation, she is not actually a resident of that area and holds no land title there. Her titled land is located nearly 3 kilometers away from that zone. Second, the child she was carrying is not her own—likely her grandchild. Third, she owns six plots of land outside that area.

Well, even if she does, as long as she cooperates, we can help provide her with land here just like the 90 households agreed to. We are not arresting or harming anyone; we are here to help resolve issues. Her land, located two and a half kilometers outside this zone, won’t be touched by anyone because the project only covers those 4 kilometers. But I don’t know why problems are being manufactured. Please cooperate and stop creating false content. Whatever her real or perceived issues are, let’s sit down and talk.

(20) Principle granted to resolve issues with gentleness if genuine problems or requests exist

I have given instructions to the Ministry of Justice and the working group to handle matters with gentleness. If she or anyone else has genuine problems or legitimate requests, please resolve them. Upon checking, she owns six separate plots of land elsewhere, complete with documentation. Her hard-titled land is located far from this area …

Nevertheless, I appeal to this young woman to come forward and meet with the working group. We will resolve things; there is no intention to mistreat her. If she wants land, let’s verify where her land actually is. What kind of land does she want, and what kind of solution is needed? Let’s discuss it. 86 out of nearly 90 affected households have already agreed…

We hope that those who haven’t yet joined will show understanding and cooperate, because we guarantee that we are not taking your assets to give to any private party. Even the small-scale tourism companies with licenses and permits from the Ministry of Environment agreed to step back so those 4 kilometers could be kept as a public shared space. They agreed.

(21) Social Land Concession areas – not just building houses and farmland, but creating farm-to-community business formulas

This is the governing principle at the Serpentine Loop. To the young woman carrying a child who claimed this administration is cruel and worse than Pol Pot, please come forward. We do not arrest or drag people around. We can provide a fair solution, but let’s be clear about what you actually want. This is our guiding principle, and we will solve it.

Where citizens have encroached on lands across various regions, we resolve it. For those who are genuinely landless, we provide houses and plots in Social Land Concession areas. Today, Social Land Concessions go beyond just building houses and agricultural plots; in some places, we establish farming models or community income systems. We invest in greenhouses and cultivation to generate community income rather than just abandoning them.

Our land policies ensure that genuinely homeless citizens receive land, including civil servants, retired former officials, and vulnerable former armed forces personnel. This is our guiding principle and what we have consistently put into practice.

(22) Fostering Ecotourism and Ecosystems while training local communities in business acumen

Regarding the Phnom 1500 ‘Hidden Blossom’ area: if anyone in Pursat—whether officials, working groups, or others—attempts to secretly hand it over to merchants, please report it to me directly and I will take responsibility. This place must be preserved as the shared property of the citizens.

We must develop it into a premier national tourist attraction so the Serpentine Loop brings benefits to the local residents living nearby. I guarantee this, and the Provincial Governor guarantees it for me. No secret handovers to anyone will be permitted. We will preserve this place. Small-scale ecotourism investors can relocate nearby. When visitors come here, they can engage in activities like trekking in public zones. They can stay at nearby resorts, and local citizens can open restaurants … We must design an interconnected Ecotourism and Ecosystem chain. While this place serves as a landmark, we must provide proper services.

We encourage nurturing our communities to develop business skills. I believe the people of Pramoy are already business-savvy because every time I drive through, I see countless shops and a bustling town center.

(23) Road connectivity and visitors flow-in create tourism economic activity packages

As long as we attract people, the roads are connected, and visitors can flow in. There is a difference between people ‘flowing in’ versus ‘flowing through.’ We want them to flow in! Visitors coming from afar will at least stop to take photos at the Ruessei Chrum Bridge, and then stop to explore Phnom 1500 and the Serpentine Loop. By the time they finish taking photos at those two spots, it will be lunchtime, leading them to dine at nearby restaurants. That is what we want to capture. Once roads are built, we must integrate them into a package of tourism economic activities. We must continue thinking along these lines.

Let me clarify to our citizens: whenever Free Asia TV broadcasts, many citizens are misled into thinking the government is mistreating people. Even people in America have posted, saying, ‘It’s their home, why not let them live there? How desperate are you to take that place?’ That land has been state property from the beginning, and it holds potential for the common good. Let’s exercise mutual understanding and strive for a Win-Win outcome. I ask our citizens for their understanding, and if you have the chance, please come visit.

(24) Preventing illegal logging and replanting trees in the “Hidden Blossom” area

Things are currently a bit degraded in that area. Therefore, my first directive is to prevent illegal logging, and second, to begin replanting trees, especially around certain border areas. In conflict-affected or heavily deforested zones, recovery isn’t easy—drones show how barren some places in Pursat province are. Maintaining vegetative cover helps environmental conservation.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Environment proposed a pilot project to plant giant grass in degraded areas where soil is difficult to plant on. Restoring forests with certain timber species is challenging, so they asked to plant giant grass first, which offers multiple benefits including community income. It serves as animal feed and biological soil conditioning before future reforestation. It is similar to planting beans after harvesting potatoes and plowing them back into the soil. It’s an experiment.

I advise against implementing this nationwide immediately; let’s run a pilot project in a few locations first. Make sure not to plant just for the sake of planting—it must be tied to the community with a clear goal of generating income for locals while helping restore the soil. Wherever trees can be grown, we will plant them, recognizing that we cannot plant everywhere.”

(25) Diversifying tourism products – promoting islands one year and mountains the next

In some places, the soil cannot support tree growth at all; it remains sparse no matter how hard you try unless the soil is replaced. But replacing soil is impossible—we can’t truck in millions of cubic meters of river sediment. Even if we did, growth isn’t guaranteed over hard rock beds.

I used to serve in the infantry and tried planting Hopea trees in hard soil; after years, they barely grew. His Excellency Mao Sophan changed the soil there, and they grew quickly. We must study what types of plants and crops suit specific soils for restoration. However, ecotourism is a major potential that I have asked His Excellency Huot Hak to focus on. Previously, our branding focused solely on temples and cultural tourism.

We must not have just one option; we need to diversify our tourism products. One year we promote temples, the next year we promote islands, and the following year we promote mountains. Mountain tourism is part of this. The other day, I met with an international tourism company specializing in global community ecotourism, and they noted that our natural tourism potential and interlinked planning are crucial. Whatever brings in people and revenue, we welcome it. Visitors come to build the economy and support community income while we provide proper organization and strategic utilization of our potential.

(26) Creating jobs means creating people – fostering economic activity and population growth

Pursat province, which used to be a place people merely passed through—much like Kampong Chhnang in the past—is no longer that way. We now have industries, connecting roads, hydroelectric power here, and immense tourism potential. These assets have existed for millions of years; extracting benefits from them simply requires implementing the right policies.

I strongly support the province’s efforts in zoning—placing industries in industrial areas, tourism in tourism zones, and other activities where appropriate. Let’s push this as a job-creation hub that attracts people, because economic growth rapidly increases the population. This doesn’t just mean birth rates; it means people migrating from outside to seek work here. Naturally, when many people gather, births increase as well. Children born in Pursat are called the people of Pursat! If you ask people living in Pursat today, mothers often come from Banteay Meanchey and fathers from Svay Rieng, meeting and settling in Veal Veng where their children are born. In two or three generations, they will all be true locals of Veal Veng …

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(27) Thought not every commune yet, but many communes already have concrete and asphalt roads nationwide

Roads are the second most important priority after people in national development. This morning, while riding in the car along the road, I looked at Facebook and was astounded. Someone posted a picture comparing an African country—such as Burkina Faso, where the leader has been in power for just a few days and built a highway—with a photo of a muddy road in a rural commune, claiming that after 40 years of leadership by the Cambodian People’s Party, there has been zero road progress and we are losing out to others.

I sat there laughing and shaking my head in disbelief. Riding in the car this morning, I thought: we traveled along National Road No. 5, turned onto Route 55, and came to Pramoy to inaugurate Route 10. As if those roads are completely invisible! Where did they go to find mud? Where are they so skilled at digging up mud?

I admit that not every commune has concrete roads yet, but a large number of communes across the country already have concrete and asphalt roads, and we continue to build more. That person selected just one isolated road … They live in Cambodia and only ran off to live in America a few years ago. Now, meeting sisters and brothers visiting from America—from Minnesota—I ask them: ‘Did you see any muddy roads driving here this morning?’ The roads are beautiful! Driving from here all the way to Koh Kong, crossing the 90-meter bridge, it’s certainly not a bridge made of clay.

(28) As a political leader, congratulate any government that delivers achievements for the nation

So, when you return, tell our citizens and people back in Cambodia to take plenty of photos… When you reach Route 48, take pictures there too—I will be going to inaugurate it—and when you use our expressway, note that Cambodia certainly doesn’t have zero mud, and in America, there are plenty of unpaved dirt roads too! Where roads aren’t critical, they don’t build them; in certain regions and states, dirt roads are just the same. They pave asphalt roads for their main routes. Naturally, they have more than we do because they are a superpower nation.

As for that African country, I see they’ve built a lot in 3 or 4 years, and I congratulate them as a political leader. We congratulate any government that they produce achievements for their country. But don’t look at others just to disparage your own country. Taking a photo of a bumpy road, comparing it with a newly built foreign highway, and claiming that Cambodian roads are shoddily built while theirs last—well, foreign roads that have just been built for a year haven’t been tested by time yet. Which country’s roads don’t require maintenance after being built? Even in America, road maintenance is ongoing … You see constant repairs and endless traffic jams because maintenance is necessary.

Roads in Cambodia are the same: they are built and then maintained. In some places, heavy usage causes them to degrade faster, so we repair and keep maintaining them.

(29) From 1998 to 2023, following the Win-Win Policy, thousands of kilometers of roads were built

Infrastructure has been a top priority across multiple terms of the Royal Government, especially following the implementation of the Win-Win Policy. Through the rollout of the Triangular Strategy and Rectangular Strategies (Phases I, II, III, and IV): people are priority number one, roads number two, followed by water and electricity …

Regarding roads, I don’t even need to talk about the period from 1998 to 2023 when thousands of kilometers were built. Let’s just talk about my current 7th mandate: since taking office, I’ve been going around inaugurating land routes—sections of National Road No. 5, National Road No. 7, Route 71C, inaugurating the Stung Treng Bridge, soon going to inaugurate the Kratie Bridge, launching construction for the Phnom Penh bridge, inaugurating National Road No. 10 today, and soon to inaugurate Route 48 at the end of this year. In just these three years alone, we have inaugurated a flurry of projects totaling nearly a thousand kilometers … on top of the thousands of kilometers already existing.

Just a moment ago, we approved several more plans to continue building backbone roads. We plan to build bridges and roads crossing the Tonle Sap from Battambang to Siem Reap, linking even more areas. So, claiming nothing has been done is hard for me to understand. Right alongside National Road No. 10 are Routes 48, 57, 58, 59, and National Road No. 5—all built during these past 40 years… Looking strictly from the Win-Win Policy in 1998 up to these past nearly 30 years, everything has been built, and we will continue building more.

(30) The Funan Techo Canal will be connecting fresh water to saltwater, facilitating the economy and securing irrigation systems

That’s what astounds me. In terms of waterways, over these past three years, we launched construction on the Funan Techo Canal, and work is currently underway, expected to be completed by 2028. We are about to make history—connecting rivers directly to the sea!

Previously, we only had land routes connecting our freshwater rivers to saltwater oceans. Once the Funan Techo Canal is built, we will have a waterway linking inland freshwater to saltwater, connecting maritime ports to freshwater ports to facilitate the economy and secure irrigation systems for millions of hectares going forward.

We have countless clean water stations and hydraulic engineering policies. I asked His Excellency Khoy Rida: did Pursat flood this year? Every time Battambang or Banteay Meanchey floods, Pursat usually floods too … He explained that Pursat is not flooded because of the reservoir project intercepting water from the main Pursat River, which is the largest one, capable of holding 1.2 billion cubic meters of water.

This reservoir didn’t happen by accident or divine miracle; it was built by the Royal Government starting from previous mandates. We completed it to prevent flooding in Pursat city and province while securing water for our citizens during the dry season. 1.2 billion cubic meters is no small feat—some dams only hold 50 or 60 million; 1.2 billion is massive. Thus, it can be considered one of the largest dams in Cambodia […]

(31) This year’s rainwater floods have affected more than 10 provinces

In Battambang, they have the largest drainage system, while in Pursat, we have the largest reservoir […] Thus, the reservoirs we are building—and will continue to build at Dontri, Kampong Kor, Kampong Thom, and other places—are designed to intercept water. The other day, […] there was a request to study water interception on the Sen River. We already have a dam upstream and want to store more downstream for the benefit of the citizens. We will continue studying how to reliably push clean water for our people to use—this is our water policy.

Let me also remind everyone that during this current flooding, over 10 provinces have been affected. This year, the rivers are high, and floods are severe, especially waters flowing down from Thailand. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all provincial authorities, district and local authorities, armed forces across all provinces, and all volunteer groups in the regions who have intervened to help citizens—particularly in evacuating them in a timely manner. Fortunately, we have suffered no fatalities from floods this year.

(32) The armed forces stand ready to push back aggression and assist citizens affected by floods

The other day in Poipet, around the Stung Bot area, citizens reported that floodwaters rushed in aggressively. However, we evacuated them in time because our forces remain on standby 24 hours a day to help carry them. One grandmother said, ‘I didn’t want to leave yet because the water was still shallow, but suddenly it surged in with full force.’ She had to be piggybacked to safety. The elderly are the most vulnerable and at risk during such times, which is why our operations went well.

Battambang province also experienced extensive flooding … The other day, I visited Ek Phnom nearby, and other provinces have provided assistance. Thank you to the National Committee for Disaster Management, His Excellency Kun Kim, who has been constantly deployed on the ground, relevant ministries, national working groups assisting local areas who have met people face-to-face, cooperated, and united.

The armed forces—the army, military police, and national police—have their forces on standby for additional intervention. Locally, we utilize our full capacity, but if we need forces from higher levels, we have them. Across our military regions, we have designated intervention units and specialized battalions. Here in Pursat, as well as along the Thai border where we must maintain readiness to defend against aggression, forces are also deployed to help flood victims. This is what it means to share both joy and sorrow—not sharing joy and sorrow through Facebook or shouting from inside an air-conditioned room with a cup of coffee, talking for an hour only to come back the next day to criticize.

(33) First and foremost, save human lives; property can be considered afterward

The other day, teams heading to certain safety standards areas were required to wear life jackets. Some people questioned why life jackets were required even when water was only knee-deep. That is standard protocol because a bit further in, it might deepen up to your neck or drop unexpectedly into a stream. If you go to rescue someone and can barely keep yourself afloat, how can you carry someone on your back? Standards must be maintained. Let’s not nitpick minor details and instead focus on the big picture.

Our brothers and sisters work tirelessly, going without food and sleep day and night—not only evacuating people but also protecting their homes to ensure no one breaks locks or sneaks in to steal their property. I ask local authorities everywhere to help with more than just evacuation. Human life is paramount, followed by their belongings and properties. Life comes first. If you can rescue people, bring them out—don’t wait around trying to drag cattle or buffaloes out. Get people to safety first, and you can always check back later. Mattresses and household items can be dried out if flooded, but human lives cannot be replaced. Sometimes, getting distracted trying to salvage an entire house’s belongings while saving only one person leaves others behind… So please pay close attention.

(34) High water levels present an ideal opportunity to evaluate the capacity of irrigation systems

The Ministry of Economy and Finance, through its relief division, is prepared to cooperate and provide necessary support to affected provinces. Thank you to the Cambodian Red Cross for providing supplies to the provinces. Therefore, for any challenges or requests the provinces face, please submit them. If you need manpower, call on the army; if you need equipment, go through the disaster management committees to the Ministry of Economy and Finance. We maintain an emergency stockpile warehouse. The other day, several thousand kits were dispatched to Banteay Meanchey for this purpose.

Following this, recovery efforts must begin. This year may require extensive road repairs, involving both rural development and public works sectors, as some road segments have washed out. Please inspect them closely.

This rising water is a tremendous opportunity to evaluate our irrigation systems. For instance, when I visited Banteay Meanchey recently—where we cooperated with South Korea to complete a major main canal system over 100 kilometers long to channel water downward—days earlier, the working group led by His Excellency Panhem Bunthon called to report: ‘Sir, our canal system is performing excellently; no matter how high the floodwaters rise, there is no flooding.’ Three days later, it flooded, and they didn’t call to report back to me.

(35) Do not build under the premise that “only high water will cause floods,” but rather “even with massive water, there will be no floods.”

I remember Samdech Techo saying: if we win outright, they call to report; if it’s a draw, we call them to check; but if we fail, they turn off their phones. So I called to ask … and they said, ‘I reported to you in the group chat.’ But when you reported that water wasn’t flooding, was that accurate? We built the canal system, but back then we missed a key detail and failed to make a proper assessment. During low water flows, it channels correctly, but when massive volumes rush down from the deep stream, there remains a gap of a few kilometers where there is no canal, and some sections have even been filled in with earth.

So, let’s evaluate this properly for future high waters before construction takes place. Wherever necessary, open up waterways in advance. We should not build with the mindset that ‘heavy water naturally causes floods.’ Build so that ‘even with massive water, flooding does not occur.’ Don’t say, ‘Well, if water reaches this level, let it flood—what about lower levels?’ Since we are already building, do it right under all circumstances!

This year’s water volume is massive; every province says they have never seen water this high. In 2013, the floods were moderate, but this is exceptionally heavy. Banteay Meanchey experienced the same. Let’s use this opportunity to study safe high-ground locations, including rural development roads.

I told (the Minister of Rural Development,) His Excellency Chhay Rithisen when we toured together: examine rural development roads carefully. Typically, drainage pipes and culverts are standardized and relatively small, but identify where washouts occur or where major water flows pass, and install larger culverts next time while maintaining other sections. Designate areas that withstand heavy waters without flooding as safe havens for the future.

(36) Within every crisis lies an opportunity to evaluate ourselves and strengthen preparedness for the future

In every challenge, we must look for opportunities—don’t just focus solely on the problems. Look at the problem, but recognize the opportunity for evaluation. Whatever we do, systems are tested at their maximum limits, and nature has just helped us run a maximum stress test.

Another point: we do not celebrate flooding, but as the saying goes, ‘every cloud has a silver lining.’ What is the silver lining here? Over the past few years and looking ahead through the next six months, forecasts predict the El Niño phenomenon—a period marked by prolonged drought and soaring temperatures. Experts predict that around 450,000 people worldwide could die facing water scarcity crises. When these heavy rains and floodwaters arrived, 50 million cubic meters of water poured into our reservoirs daily, helping to replenish them. Normal rainfall alone would not fill them. So we capture and store it… We must find ways to manage it against heatwaves because while it feels cool today, six months from now we might face severe drought.

Scientific studies and assessments from American climate laboratories project conditions six months ahead. Let’s use this opportunity of overflowing reservoirs—discharging excess where necessary—as a way to store water to assist our people. Within every crisis lies an opportunity to evaluate ourselves and strengthen our resilience so future vulnerabilities do not repeat.

(37) Border conflicts and closures serve as opportunities for self-evaluation, internal strengthening, and economic diversification

Having border conflicts and border closures—all of these are opportunities for us to evaluate ourselves, strengthen internal capacity, and drive economic diversification for border-adjacent regions. In the short term it hurts, but we must take these lessons to heart to prevent them from recurring in the future. Strengthening ourselves across all sectors … even tree planting must have targeted goals. Soldiers already understand why trees are so crucial, especially in an era dominated by drones. Citizens need them too. Restauration is a great opportunity for us to act. Electricity here is available; we have hydropower, and solar power in Pursat has expanded significantly.

To those who claim that over the last 40 years there hasn’t been a single good road: come ride with us. You in Minnesota can post your videos… just check the Ministry of Public Works and Transport page. First, our Minister looks sharp—people might mistake him for of Indian descent! Second, our infrastructure activities and achievements speak for themselves. Come visit in person, take photos of the Ruessei Chrum Bridge, and selfie at Phnom 1500. Take photos from high angles at the Serpentine Loop in 2026. Three or four years from now, compare the changes… you will witness evolution step by step.

Thank you for making the effort to come, but as someone originally from Pursat, come celebrate our homeland.

(38) In building infrastructure, the Royal Government considers the welfare of citizens across every province and the entire nation

I believe you – sisters and brothers – have all lived through the era of artillery shells—the time when this region was a combat zone. Growing up, you probably never imagined that Pramoy would have modern infrastructure and transform into such a bustling town. How long has it been here? Since 2005. So in 21 years, you can see the profound transformation: how isolated and cut off it once was versus how populated it is today.

Thank you for participating and helping spread awareness among our citizens. Cambodian citizens living farther abroad tend to miss home more deeply and are quicker to believe external narratives. Some go too far in spreading information—positive news is one thing, but tragic or sensationalized stories are quickly believed because their emotional desire is to see and achieve peace of mind.

Let me show and tell you the truth: regarding the solutions at the Serpentine Loop and the case of the young woman carrying a child, the infrastructure we build reflects the Royal Government’s consideration for the welfare of citizens across every province and the entire nation. We do not abandon or mistreat our people; we only help and improve conditions everywhere. Please rest assured.

(39) Promoting clean energy development to protect the environment, stabilize prices, and decouple from oil fluctuations

I invite our Cambodian brothers and sisters living abroad to cherish our homeland just as much. Be joyful and trust in us. Come visit in plenty. Don’t listen to rumors or believe false claims—come and see for yourselves. If someone claims Cambodia has spent 40 years building nothing but muddy roads, come find those muddy roads. They exist, of course, but concrete roads now reach deep into our communes as well.

I am confident that communes in Pursat also feature concrete roads—it’s not just cities that have paved roads and lighting. We have extended electricity grids to nearly every village nationwide, except for a few newly established areas. While some regions rely on national grids, others still utilize private service providers. In the future, we will integrate them into the national grid while pursuing policies to stabilize prices … Electricite du Cambodia (EDC) has already contributed over 50 million to subsidize and prevent electricity tariffs per kilowatt from rising. We actively encourage investment in new solar energy systems. Today, we harness hydropower from Atai I, plan another hydroelectric plant on the Pursat River, utilize the Thma Da river streams, and expand solar capacity.

We are accelerating clean energy development because it protects the environment and stabilizes prices, insulating us from volatile oil market fluctuations. Thermal power plants fueled by coal see electricity costs rise alongside oil prices due to transportation costs. Clean energy helps buffer against that. We will continue advancing these initiatives.

I call upon all relevant provincial authorities to remain prepared for emergency interventions to assist citizens affected by floods. Where waters have receded, or where they continue to rise without peaking, stay vigilant. Once this passes, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and other relevant agencies must stand ready to assist in recovery—providing seeds for damaged crops. As for damaged roads, the Ministry of Rural Development and the Ministry of Public Works and Transport should consider immediate temporary repairs where possible, followed by full permanent restoration later.

[5]

(40) The National Bank issues new banknotes to enhance aesthetics and security

Before concluding, let’s open a small parenthesis. There are matters that may or may not be interconnected, but they require a little explanation because without it, misunderstandings can easily arise, sparking waves of attacks and causing widespread confusion and emotional turmoil among citizens.

Firstly: economic matters that seem to worry citizens, particularly regarding the banking sector. Recently, the National Bank issued new 50,000-riel and 100,000-riel banknotes. Why are these banknotes being issued? The goal is to enhance aesthetics and, most importantly, security to prevent counterfeiting. With a lot of fake money around, new technologies embed special markers within the new banknotes that make them difficult to forge. They look similar, but holding them up to the light reveals their authenticity. High-denomination banknotes are circulated heavily and are most vulnerable to counterfeiting. While 1,000-riel notes are rarely forged, 50,000 riels equals about 12 USD, and 100,000 riels equals about 25 USD.

Another reason is to replace worn-out banknotes. People might not realize how worn circulating money gets, and the National Bank has to collect, shred, and recycle it. I was astonished myself when looking at the data, which showed that in May alone, 72.6 million sheets were shredded. In the peak month of August, it reached 118.9 million sheets […] Banknotes in circulation get torn or severely worn down … so new ones are printed. Thus, printing new money is a continuous cycle, not something that just started now. When 92 million sheets are collected in a month, 92 million new sheets are printed and released. It flows in and out; currency exchange is a natural cycle.

What requires explanation is that people are spreading panic, claiming that the State has run out of money and is on the verge of collapse, urging anyone with money in the bank to withdraw it all. Recently, the National Bank issued explanations regarding the reasons for printing money, but it seems (the anxiety persists) … High-ranking officials from the National Bank explained it to an audience of 10,000 people, but the panic-mongers reached millions of viewers. People ended up believing the fear-mongers because 50,000 people understood the explanation, while a million people were terrified, creating a crisis out of nothing. We cannot underestimate this. The fear of ghosts is worse than seeing a ghost—the anxiety that the economy is collapsing just because the State is issuing new currency. Seeing money being printed, people assume the State has run out of money, wondering what will happen to the economy, and rushing to withdraw money from banks before any banking crisis hits.

There had been a few banking issues stemming from entirely different causes. The banking system is fully intact, and people are still depositing money normally. Please do not worry; the State has not run out of money … If the State had run out of money, why would it announce and organize new banknotes? It could just quietly print old notes in any amount it wanted. But we don’t need to do that. The State needs to issue these new banknotes because the old ones are over ten years old—the 100,000-riel note was introduced in 2012, and the 50,000-riel note in 2013. So it has been over a decade. Minor improvements are made without changing much, focusing primarily on security systems to prevent forgery. That is all.

I affirm that the State has not run out of money. Are civil servants experiencing delayed salaries? They get paid twice a month. Now, for the upcoming Pchum Ben festival, instead of two separate payouts, it is combined and paid out all at once. If the State lacked cash liquidity, it wouldn’t make double payouts; it would pay out once every three months! We disburse double payments twice a year—not adding extra free money, but simply advancing the scheduled payouts ahead of the New Year or Pchum Ben so people have cash to travel or make food offerings at pagodas. We disburse it; there is no cash shortage.

Furthermore, an additional allowance of 50,000 riels per person is provided for Pchum Ben to national and sub-national civil servants, armed forces, retirees, veterans, village chiefs, and various other target groups … Disbursed no later than October 8th (I don’t recall the exact date), cash continues to flow smoothly with no shortage whatsoever. Salaries are paid in full alongside allowances. Not only that, but the Phnom Penh Capital Hall deployed 600 buses and covered travel expenses to send citizens home for free. If we lacked cash, where would the money to do that come from? Our national budget management and cash flow are fully secure. Did everyone receive their 50,000 riels? On time, right? But it has to come before Pchum Ben. If distributed too early, it gets spent; it is saved for you …

(41) Even if you don’t love the government or the ruling party, please treat the military as a national asset and do not undermine their morale

Second, still regarding financial matters, but shifting to the subject of our troops. First, I would like to thank citizens both at home and abroad for supporting, continuing to support, and trusting our heroic soldiers, national police heroes, combatants, military police, and troops everywhere who protect territorial integrity, peace, and national security … Please continue supporting this spirit.

[However], I would like to state this: regardless of political party or political leaning, the armed forces belong to the nation and defend the country’s territory. If you dislike the government or the ruling party, criticize something else—do not undermine the morale of the troops. Out of nowhere, posts appear claiming that soldiers are eating rice with chili paste and salt. Frontline soldiers themselves know the truth. To this day and age, do they eat rice with chili paste and salt? In some remote frontline areas where logistics haven’t arrived yet, they might occasionally consume emergency field rations designed to last for a certain period, but supplies do reach them.

The standard military ration allowance is 4,200 riels per day—totaling 120,000 riels per month—which goes directly into the shared communal kitchen.

(42) Soldiers to receive salaries through the banking system by mid-2027

The other day, there was a misunderstanding that the 120,000 riels allowance was being deducted. That is not true; it goes directly into the mess halls for soldiers and armed forces, including national police stationed at the frontline. Since Samdech Techo’s era, we added an extra 3,000 riels per day for nutritional supplements for our brothers and sisters at the frontline. This means frontline personnel receive 175 percent of what rear-line personnel get—an extra 75 percent supplement. Logistical provisioning at the front is handled regularly by our Ministry of Defense, supported by contributions from philanthropists. Even without philanthropists, our regular provisioning and guarantees remain constant.

I am not speaking of their regular salaries here; soldiers’ cash salaries have never been lost. It’s just that soldiers do not yet receive their pay through the banking system. I have given instructions to set this up so that by mid-2027, salaries will be disbursed through banking systems. It’s fine; nothing will be lost. Even under the current manual system, finance teams bring cash directly to the frontline on time, except during active combat. Under current stability, cash reaches them. Food supplies are delivered; during active combat when delivery is impossible, they rely on frontline dry rations where transport is feasible. But when there is no fighting, we guarantee full regular provisioning.

(43) If armed forces personnel are truly eating plain rice with chili and salt, please send a message so as to address it immediately

Please do not fabricate stories to undermine the morale of the troops! Now, if any military or armed forces personnel are genuinely eating rice with chili paste and salt at the frontline or anywhere else—meaning as a regular diet, not just occasionally paired with sour mango, salt, and prahok as extra side treats—please send a message to my Facebook page so I can look into this matter immediately. The Commander-in-Chief is present here, and I guarantee it. I will sign off to increase troop strength further. I will sign off to increase that 3,000-riel allowance. His Excellency Kim Bunthan and His Excellency Tea Seiha, submit your requests for whatever extra amount is needed, and I will approve it … We provide supplementary rations for over 50,000 personnel, including both naval and land forces. Since Samdech Techo’s time, we have provided nutritional supplements, and during this wartime situation, we increase frontline support even further.

(44) Always addressing frontline requests immediately without referring them to the Ministry of Economy and Finance for review and comments

No pauses whatsoever. Whenever a request arrives from the frontline—whether it’s a request to build bunkers, procure equipment, construct roads, supply rations, or anything else—it is never sent to the Ministry of Economy and Finance for review and comments. Other requests require review and comments because they involve larger budget sizes.

However, requests from the frontline and from our troops engaged in operations—whether for natural disasters or anything else—are signed off on immediately upon submission. Disaster-relief requests are signed off on the moment they are submitted. I have delegated authority to His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister [Akkakpundit Saphachary]; whatever amount is needed, handle it so things don’t get bottlenecked.

When citizens face emergencies or floods, they must be assisted. This is a guiding principle: neither our citizens, our troops, nor our forces—whether in the rear or at the front—shall ever go hungry. I refuse to believe otherwise, just in case I might be mistaken. Now, send a message to my Facebook page. I guarantee that no one else will know; it will come straight to me so I can assign someone to check whether that location’s situation is real or not. No matter how difficult the place is, we still deploy forces to carry supplies …

Frontline stations cannot all be reached by roads; patrolling is necessary, and it’s the same on the opposing side. In some places, they carry supplies on their backs; in others, they use pack animals, as terrain conditions differ. Some locations are accessible by vehicles, while others require pushing through water. We acknowledge that some mountainous areas previously had no permanent presence. Now that we have established positions up there, before floodwaters reach them, water must be carried up manually. During the dry season, water sources are scarce; sinking wells fails, ponds don’t exist, and there is no rain. We strive hard to supply them. It may be slow in some places, but we never let them run out of supplies.

(45) Please seek verification beforehand and avoid posting incomplete information that causes negative impacts

Let me share this notice. First, to our citizens both at home and abroad who genuinely care about the well-being of our troops and national police officers at the frontline—fearing they might lack food or water—they rush to post messages based on incomplete information or information intended to help us grasp and resolve issues. With so many troops, police officers, and locations, some places are reached instantly while others take time. Some locations receive both rations and donations, while others situated further away haven’t reached that stage yet.

However, we must maintain a firm grip on the situation. For citizens who genuinely care, please provide information, keep a close watch, and help share when appropriate. If you do not have complete information, please verify it before posting anything elsewhere. You may have good intentions, but incomplete information creates negative impacts because nowadays everyone views these posts, and external actors exploit them to undermine and demoralize our troops.

(46) Citizens of all ages, especially Gen Z, are active in creating fundraising initiatives to support the frontline

To all our citizens, young and old—especially the youth and Gen Z who are very active—whenever conflicts arise, they create initiatives like ‘Eat More’ and various funds to raise contributions and deliver them directly to the frontline … Living conditions everywhere receive support and encouragement through available funds and supplies. Some even travel up to visit and support the troops.

Thank you to all ministries, institutions, capitals, and provinces participating in the ‘1Brat’ (Sisterhood/Brotherhood) solidarity network, as well as our many citizens who have visited and expressed goodwill, including the displaced war evacuees. We have three displaced persons camps: one in Banteay Meanchey known as ‘Rong Cham Village’, one in Ta Kang, Preah Vihear housing over 600 families, and one in Oddar Meanchey with about 1,000 families, totaling nearly 5,000 families altogether.

‘Rong Cham Village’ is the most well-known, but the other two locations deserve visits and support as well. We build houses and infrastructure for them uniformly because we refuse to leave citizens suffering in tents. As I stated when I met with displaced war evacuees in December [2025], our guiding principles are to save lives first, facilitate living conditions, and assist in recovery. We say what we mean, and we do what we do: 5,000 houses built within just a few months. Now citizens are recovering, and the work isn’t finished yet—we continue spending additional budget to build self-sustaining communities right there.

(47) Nation is under aggression; please do not damage the morale of the troops, especially through misunderstandings fueled by false information

At Rong Cham Village, we allocated around 100 to 200 hectares of land to build houses and net-houses, with the Ministry of Agriculture assisting in establishing community farms to generate local income. The same is done in Preah Vihear and other sites. We do this to provide genuine assistance.

Soldier families and affected citizens are returning home. We provide compensation where needed; for homes hit by artillery shells, we offer assistance. I don’t have all the exact figures on hand, but some compensations range around 2 million or 3 million riels depending on the scale. Please understand—this is not meant to cover full market replacement costs. Some might complain, ‘A villa costs hundreds of thousands, it was destroyed, and the State only gives this much?’ No! Go demand compensation from those who fired the shells!

The State provides support during hardships by sharing from its own mouth and plate. We disburse budgets in all directions: salaries and allowances for citizens nationwide, funding for territorial defense forces, security, flood rescue operations, aiding displaced evacuees, and supporting ordinary citizens… Thank you very much for your understanding.

A message to that specific group of people who know the truth yet prefer to distort facts to attack us: whatever you’re going to do, go ahead, but at a time when our nation is facing aggression and our soldiers and police are standing firm to defend the territory and maintain readiness, please do nothing that harms the morale of our people. If you cannot help, at least do not damage the morale of our troops—especially by spreading false information to incite misunderstandings. Every single day, claims circulate that our soldiers are being killed in action daily. Are they dying every day? Do you think we don’t care about the lives of our own troops? If our soldiers were being killed daily, would we conceal it? Such events do not happen, yet they persistently fabricate and push these false narratives.

(48) “Grandfather, hold the alms bowl while I strike this fellow…”

The other day, I said: if you want to play, don’t get angry; if you’re going to get angry, don’t play. They hurled insults at me and mocked me relentlessly. Yet the moment I fired back just two words—calling someone ‘Ah Puk Mut’ (crooked-mouthed) or ‘Ah Veach Mut’ (twisted-mouthed)—they swarmed like bees! Some people stood up and applauded, cheering, ‘Hun Manet knows how to curse now!’ They claimed that a Prime Minister who uses such words is degrading the office. What nonsense! Even monks who strictly observe moral precepts have their limits. As the saying goes: ‘You may hold the alms bowl while I strike this fellow a bit—he is being far too insolent!’ It’s quite comical.

Just because I used the word ‘twisted-mouthed’, many self-proclaimed expert analysts immediately assumed it was directed at them. Well, let them puzzle over it themselves! The only person who knows the exact answer of who I meant is me. But I won’t tell; I’ll leave them guessing and overthinking it because there’s no need to spell it out. Calling someone ‘twisted-mouthed’ is already quite mild, and frankly, their hearts are twisted too.

These days, if you look closely, whenever citizens celebrate the New Year with joy, certain individuals are deeply unhappy. Yet when we arrange events for the citizens at Rong Chang Village so they wouldn’t suffer or feel abandoned during the holidays, they still criticize us. But when others dance, they claim it’s just ‘New Year festive spirit.’ What angers me most isn’t policy criticisms, but rather the fact that people must take national defense and border issues seriously.

A message to the veteran politicians and that twisted-mouthed fellow: go ahead and spin it, claim that Hun Manet’s career is plummeting. Just because I called someone ‘Ah’ (a familiar/pejorative pronoun), they say I should step down as Prime Minister! They argue that being Prime Minister means you must endure being cursed at without ever having the right to respond. I didn’t curse; I merely used a familiar pronoun. You may not use that pronoun, but your mockery of me is far more vicious! You label us as unprincipled leaders, land-losers, and traitors—you don’t even need to use harsh pronouns when your accusations are already far more destructive than mere name-calling.

(49) Using the enemy’s rhetoric to attack one’s own military is an act of treason

If they fire back, don’t cry like swarming bees. Go ahead, take it, step on it further, and claim I used the pronoun ‘Ah’ again. In that case, perhaps I should resign! The other day, I noticed the President of the United States also knows how to talk back—when pushed too far, he snaps back a time or two. No law forbids us from defending ourselves. Using words is a right, and I didn’t use any vulgar profanity; it was just a simple expression…

Veteran political figures … while active fighting is happening, when enemy forces launch artillery shells destroying our citizens’ homes and striking pagodas, these politicians remain utterly silent. Yet they turn around and falsely accuse our side of unjustly firing upon foreign civilians. Our frontline soldiers and commanders have no plans whatsoever to target civilian homes; they only strike military installations, and only after being fired upon first!

Yet foreign-based political figures—some self-styled government-in-exile created since October 23rd or earlier, stretching from Samdech Techo’s era all the way to my tenure—take to microphones and broadcast claims that our troops unjustly killed foreign civilians. By doing so, these supposed Khmers adopt the enemy’s rhetoric to attack their own military! This is an act of supreme treason. Our troops never initiated attacks. They only respond when enemy forces fire upon our soldiers, our homes, and our villages… yet these people accuse us of shelling foreign civilians.

And then local politicians echo those very talking points, allowing the opposing side to use them for propaganda: ‘Even Khmers themselves admit that Cambodian troops fired on civilian homes’—when, in reality, our troops did no such thing. Can these people truly find nothing else to talk about? The other day, that same twisted-mouthed fellow watched as enemy forces blasted our temples to ruins, destroying our construction cranes while laughing and posting it proudly on Facebook … destroying over 500 spots across our ancient temples.

(50) The Ministry of Culture presents evidence that the bunkers at Preah Vihear Temple are for conservationists to take shelter

They try hard to accuse us, pulling drone footage from who knows where showing bunkers, claiming that Cambodian soldiers installed them there. It’s a blatant, malicious accusation … The Ministry of Culture has already issued a clarification explaining that these are personnel shelter bunkers. There are three types of bunkers: shelter bunkers, weapon bunkers, ammunition bunkers, and food supply bunkers. Shelter bunkers are for people to take cover—soldiers can use them, and citizens can use them as well. Thailand also builds shelter structures for their citizens to take cover in. These shelters are prepared using sandbags.

The Ministry of Culture presented evidence showing that these bunkers are for the Angkor conservationists to take shelter. During the first five days of fighting, didn’t you see women trapped right there? Stuck there, weeping and unable to escape from the temple in time. That’s why they prepared concrete and tile-roofed houses? No, they used sandbags, arranging them so that when an emergency strikes, the Angkor conservationists, female caretakers, and heritage guards can duck inside.

Yet they accuse us, destroying our property while laughing gleefully, boasting that they only targeted our military installations—shooting right up at a construction crane! What soldier would place a bunker on top of a construction crane? They blasted and destroyed over 500 spots across our temples.

(51) “Not only is the mouth twisted, but the heart is too”

Yet fellow Khmers go so far as to claim it’s all the fault of Cambodian soldiers setting up bunkers, implying that enemy fire conveniently hit only our soldiers rather than striking the temple itself. How absurd! Aren’t you outraged by this? If someone just has a ‘twisted mouth’, don’t get too angry; but when their heart is twisted, that is no ordinary malice.

Political parties and criticizing the government are one thing, but making unjust criticisms against our heritage sites that are being destroyed, and launching unfair attacks on our troops—who weren’t even the ones targeted, as these are civilian heritage areas—goes beyond the pale. There is no law prohibiting the construction of bomb shelters for civilian workers laboring in war zones. We even brought media outlets, UNESCO representatives, and others to inspect it firsthand so they could see the truth. We hid nothing.

This is the reality. But dealing with fellow Khmers who act this way is difficult. Now, call me wicked if you like; I will openly call them ‘Ah Veach Moat’ (twisted-mouthed) because their hearts are twisted and they inflict harm, and what infuriates me most is that they groundlessly accuse our troops.

Let this be a warning to them … Go ahead and broadcast it, make a fuss, jump up and cheer, claiming a great political victory that Hun Manet is lashing out again. Let me tell you: a leader’s choice of words can be polite, avoiding harsh pronouns like ‘Ah’, yet a sharp critique delivered straight from the shoulder can cut much deeper and be far more vicious.

Which patriotic Khmer, at home or abroad, wouldn’t feel heartbroken seeing photos of our temples bombed to ruins, while adversaries laugh gleefully over blowing up Indian-donated restoration cranes … monitored on radar without concealment? Dropping bombs directly onto ancient temples while laughing merrily. And at the very same time, male and female Angkor conservation staff taking shelter in those bunkers from incoming shells are still falsely accused. It is utterly unjust.

(52) “Just to gain political leverage, they attack their own military”

The crux of the matter is that these fellow Khmers—who usually limit their criticisms to festive seasons—go so far as to accuse our heroic soldiers standing firm to defend the nation of crimes they never committed. We respect the laws of war; we respect heritage preservation laws. Let the enemy accuse us, but for fellow Khmers—solely for the sake of petty political gain—to attack their own military … I am not fabricating this. They speak it and post it openly on their own pages with clear evidence.

An elderly veteran politician claimed: ‘Oh, the enemy’s troops fire with pinpoint accuracy, they are skilled and clever; whereas Cambodian soldiers don’t know how to shoot properly, their fire goes astray and only hits and kills foreign civilians.’ That’s what they say. Instead of offering encouragement, they disparage our forces and falsely accuse them of committing war crimes against foreign civilians when we did no such thing. They attacked us first…

And yet our own political figures take to microphones to echo those claims, allowing the opposing side to use them for propaganda: ‘Even Khmers themselves acknowledge that Cambodian troops fired on foreign civilian homes’—when our troops never did any such thing! Can these people truly find nothing else to talk about? The other day, that same twisted-mouthed fellow watched as enemy forces blew our temples to pieces and destroyed our cranes, laughing and posting it proudly on Facebook.”

(53) “If they cross the line again—especially by cursing our troops—I will curse back …”

Call me out for cursing again. From now on, whenever they cross the line—especially when they insult our troops—I will curse right back … The other day, a young woman hurled insults at our troops, eventually wishing death upon us and accusing us of losing territory and military defeats. Life, struggle, warfare, and battlefields involve winning and losing, but we will never surrender or abandon our territory to anyone. Countless brave souls have shed their fresh blood and flesh for this sacred cause. Do these critics understand the immense sacrifices made by our soldiers, our heroic troops, and our national police? Aren’t they protected by these very forces?

Armed forces fight on the battlefield, while diplomatic forces fight on legal and diplomatic battlefronts to reclaim what is ours … rescuing people, while ground troops remain steadfast, building roads and infrastructure … Our frontline troops hold the ceasefire line, respecting principles. Unlike others, they don’t get to go home to their families. Our rear-line armed forces work tirelessly too. When everyone else rests, we work even harder. Police must maintain public security, village safety, and traffic control, preventing youths from brawling—because when people celebrate too exuberantly, friction inevitably occurs.”

(54) Please obey traffic rules so that after the holidays, families remain reunited without injuries or trouble

Today, commercial advertising for canned beer has been temporarily suspended starting October 1st. Be careful not to crack open cans and start brawling, creating more trouble for the police! Please drive carefully and obey traffic rules. The roads are nice, but don’t drive too fast. Even if our vehicles are good, hitting someone causes fatal accidents. Exercise caution so that once the holidays conclude, every family stays reunited in good health—free of injuries, trouble, or violence that lands people in jail or forces them to build military bunkers.

Speaking of Pursat, did they transfer some juvenile delinquents here? How many arrived from the prison? (400 individuals). They built tens of thousands of bunker covers. As the saying goes, if you loaf around in the rear, come up to the front line—like those sent to Oddar Meanchey who became active, awakened, and industrious, outperforming everyone else in building bunker covers and fortifications. But you shouldn’t wish to end up there just to help; you can contribute to building bunkers from the outside without needing a prison sentence. Just send well-wishes to the troops—just stop cursing them, and that’s enough.”

(55) The Royal Government stands with our armed forces under all circumstances

We conclude this work with these parting thoughts. On the occasion of Pchum Ben, I extend my best wishes and greetings to all our armed forces personnel—both those stationed at the frontline and those in the rear across every location. May you achieve success and maintain good health as you safeguard our security and territorial integrity during this Pchum Ben festival. The Royal Government stands with you under all circumstances—whether in times of active combat or peace, we are always together. While logistical provisioning and support may occasionally experience gaps and cannot be absolute or flawless, striving for excellence is our constant commitment.

I reiterate this final reminder: if you want to play, don’t get angry; if you’re going to get angry, don’t play. When they mock others under the banner of freedom of expression, they must extend that same courtesy when they get mocked back. That is freedom of expression for everyone. Some people throw around a couple of words and instantly claim democracy is violated, while ignoring years of relentless verbal abuse against us…

Nevertheless, I appeal to everyone—regardless of political party or leaning—to spare our soldiers and police officers who defend our nation. Let’s unite, stop undermining troop morale, and work together to support our military when challenges arise. This is what must be done to defend the nation as a whole. National defense does not rest solely on the shoulders of the military and national police; it requires the active participation of all citizens. Strengthening national defense isn’t just about procuring advanced weaponry; it also means building roads and infrastructure to forge a resilient economy.

Therefore, that concludes our remarks for today. Let us close this parenthesis here./.