Cambodia Vows to Combat Tech Scams, PM Hun Manet Pledges Stronger Action

Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia stated at the opening of the International Conference on Combating Technology Scams on the morning of September 23, 2026, that technology-based fraud is a new phenomenon that emerged after COVID-19. He emphasized that this type of crime is entirely contrary to Cambodia's culture of living and its environment for national construction and development. According to the Prime Minister, Cambodia cannot allow this issue to attack the nation's achievements and honor. The government has decided to establish a special committee, led by himself, to intensify operations to clean up scams. Furthermore, a law on combating technology-based fraud will be created. While major scam locations have been dismantled and cleared through "iron fist" operations, the Prime Minister acknowledged that smaller remnants remain and must be eradicated at their roots. Additionally, Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that Cambodia is building legal documents, modernizing mechanisms, and strengthening human resource quality to ensure long-term effectiveness in combating technology-based fraud. This is especially crucial to respond promptly to the rapid changes and complexities of digital technology, which are key tools for criminals. He stressed that global cooperation is the only key to achieving future goals and cutting off these transnational criminal networks. Sincere and open cooperation in information exchange and sharing lessons learned are core points to be promoted and encouraged. Conversely, suppressing these crimes by violating sovereign powers and invading territories is contrary to international law and the truth of cooperation. The International Conference on Combating Technology Scams has three main objectives: 1) To gain a deeper understanding of the evolving complex ecosystem of technology scam networks; 2) To strengthen international cooperation, coordination, and multilateral partnerships in combating technology scams; and 3) To promote the exchange of experiences and best practices, and to issue a call for joint action in combating technology scams. The conference will adopt an outcome document that will provide a framework for strengthening international cooperation, information sharing, capacity building, prevention, law enforcement, victim protection, and coordination in responding to technology scams and cross-border crimes utilizing technology.