Cambodian Deputy Minister Responds to Flood Aid Criticism: 'Don't Insult, Help Instead'

Pan Kham Bounthon, Deputy Minister at the Council of Ministers and Vice-Chairman of the working group of the Royal Government for Banteay Meanchey Province, strongly responded on September 25 to criticisms regarding the response to flood damage in Poipet City. The Deputy Minister stated, 'We are not complaining or begging for sympathy. However, we ask that you refrain from insulting, belittling, or making provocative remarks. Natural disasters are not something anyone wishes for. If you have excessive free time, it would be far better to come and help us together rather than just engaging in useless criticism.' This statement is interpreted as an appeal for constructive support and public cooperation, in response to some criticisms of the government's disaster response. In Cambodia, floods occur in various regions with the arrival of the rainy season, and Banteay Meanchey Province, including Poipet City, is one of the areas prone to severe damage. The government is busy distributing relief supplies and setting up shelters for the affected, but various opinions regarding the speed and effectiveness of these measures are being voiced, particularly through social media. The Deputy Minister's remarks are seen as an attempt to foster understanding of the government's efforts and to call for a cooperative spirit to overcome the difficulties together. Disaster response in Cambodia faces challenges such as infrastructure vulnerability and financial constraints. While infrastructure investment from China is progressing, the impacts of climate change cannot be ignored. In such circumstances, a united front between the government and the public is called for to confront disasters. The Deputy Minister's statement can be seen as a message to the public for this purpose. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer