Cambodia Emphasizes Journalistic Ethics as 'True Armor'

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, September 9, 2026 -- Dr. Hou Kountha, President of the Cambodian Association for the Development of Professional Journalists, reiterated and urged all journalists to continue adhering to professional ethics as a core principle. He emphasized that observing ethical codes is the most effective 'protective armor' for journalists in their daily professional practice. Dr. Hou Kountha made these remarks while presiding over a meeting and discussion on challenges in the information sector held on the afternoon of September 9, 2026. The event was attended by 125 media executives and journalists from 50 news organizations. Citing remarks from H.E. Net Pheaktra, Minister of Information, Dr. Hou Kountha stated that professional ethics are like armor, but the strength of that armor depends on the individual journalist's implementation. He noted that while the order in the information sector has improved significantly, a small number of journalists still act contrary to professional ethics, thereby harming the value and reputation of journalists who strive to uphold ethical standards. Dr. Hou Kountha pointed out several shortcomings, such as interviewing victims or perpetrators before law enforcement authorities conduct their investigations, which can lead to public misunderstanding and interfere with court proceedings. Furthermore, disseminating information related to personal matters, psychological issues, and family honor based on one-sided accounts is also a wrongful and unethical act. Dr. Hou Kountha added, 'Our rights are not limitless. Performing duties in accordance with professional ethics not only helps society receive true and beneficial information but is also the only way to protect the honor, dignity, and safety of the journalists themselves.' It is also noted that during this meeting, the Cambodian Association for the Development of Professional Journalists collected challenges, difficulties, and key inputs from journalists to compile into a report and recommendations, which will be submitted to the Ministry of Information in the regular quarterly meetings between the ministry and representatives of media associations. By: Touch Voleakhan © All rights reserved by Agence Kampuchea Presse, 2018