Senate Vice-President Urges Displaced Citizens to Maintain Unity and Transform Hardships into National Building Force

His Excellency Dr. Thon Vathana, Second Vice-President of the Senate and Standing Member of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC), has urged citizens currently residing in displacement sites in Banteay Meanchey province to maintain national solidarity and hope, and to transform the hardships they are facing into a driving force for strengthening the nation. His Excellency made these remarks during a visit to the "Rom Cham 1" village in Sla Kram commune, Svay Chek district, Banteay Meanchey province, where he met with and provided donations and essential supplies to displaced citizens. This initiative aims to alleviate their difficulties and provide moral support while they await their return to their homes. Representing His Excellency Hun Many, President of the UYFC, Dr. Thon Vathana highlighted the profound meaning of the name "Rom Cham" (Waiting Village), as it is a place where citizens are awaiting their return to their homes. He emphasized that this waiting is not one of despair, but rather one filled with hope, patience, and national solidarity. His Excellency urged the citizens to continue placing their trust in the government's efforts to resolve issues peacefully, in accordance with law and international mechanisms, and to maintain their spirit of solidarity and cooperation with authorities at all levels. Dr. Thon Vathana also encouraged citizens to prioritize their health and ensure their children continue their studies as usual, despite the difficult circumstances. He particularly encouraged the strengthening of children's capabilities through learning English and acquiring essential knowledge and skills for their future. Dr. Thon Vathana further emphasized that any pain and hardship experienced by the citizens should be transformed into a motivational force and a driving impetus for building a stronger nation. He stressed, "Remembering the difficult days at 'Rom Cham' is not to recreate the pain, but to learn from these experiences, strengthen our own capabilities, and collectively build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for our children and grandchildren." He also urged citizens to remember historical lessons, especially the experience of invasion on Cambodian territory, to reinforce their patriotism, solidarity, capabilities, and living standards. His Excellency pointed out that building citizens' capacity, strengthening livelihoods, and jointly developing communities are fundamental cornerstones for building a stronger nation capable of defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Dr. Thon Vathana also visited and distributed aid to citizens in Kok Rumiet commune to listen to their opinions and understand the actual situation and needs of the local population. Concurrently, His Excellency expressed gratitude to His Excellency Keo Kim Yan, a member of the Royal Council of Cambodia and a Member of Parliament for Banteay Meanchey province, for providing land for the construction of housing for displaced citizens, as well as to philanthropists and relevant companies who have contributed supplies and funds to alleviate difficulties and provide warmth to the citizens during this challenging time. His Excellency reiterated that cooperation and mutual trust between the state and its citizens are crucial factors in jointly maintaining peace, protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, and promoting sustainable community development. He added, "At Rom Cham Village, we remember the invasion and transform the pain into diligent learning, hard work, and Khmer national solidarity."