Cambodia Conducts Anti-Drug Education for Inmates

In Kandal Province, Cambodia, approximately 100 inmates at the provincial prison received educational outreach on the government's anti-drug campaign on July 16, 2026. This initiative is part of the 11th national campaign to combat illegal drugs. The educational session was presided over by Mr. Nob Dara, Deputy Governor of Kandal Province, with the participation of prison leadership, officials, relevant ministries, and subject matter experts. Mr. Nob Dara stated that the purpose of this outreach is to enhance the inmates' understanding of the severe impacts of drugs, relevant laws, and their role in implementing the national anti-drug campaign. This aligns with the government's policy to collectively reduce and ultimately eliminate the use, trafficking, distribution, and production of illegal drugs in society. The issue of drugs is a complex social problem that severely affects health, family futures, security, public order, and national social development. Therefore, educational outreach and behavioral reform for inmates are crucial components in helping them understand the dangers of drugs, transform themselves, and prepare for responsible reintegration into society without drug involvement. The Deputy Governor encouraged all inmates to strive for behavioral change, respect internal prison regulations, and embrace the education and knowledge gained from the outreach to become good citizens after serving their sentences, contributing to drug-free families and communities. He emphasized that prisons are not merely places of punishment but also provide opportunities for inmates to be educated, reform, cultivate positive thinking, and prepare for social reintegration. Disseminating knowledge about the dangers of drugs is vital for reducing recidivism and contributing to social security and order. Prison officials, law enforcement, and relevant institutions are urged to strengthen cooperation in preventing the smuggling of drugs and prohibited items into prisons and to continue implementing regular inspection and education measures to ensure a safe, orderly, and drug-free prison environment. The Kandal Provincial Administration will continue to closely collaborate with the National Authority for Combating Drugs, the General Department of Prisons, law enforcement, and all stakeholders to effectively implement the anti-drug campaign, aiming to ensure security, safety, public order, and sustainable development in line with the Cambodian government's vision. It was also noted that during the session, experts presented on laws and penalties related to drugs, as well as their health, family economic, and social impacts, providing knowledge to the inmates and encouraging further dissemination. Source: AKP Khmer