Cambodia Intensifies 'Say No to Fake News' Campaign Nationwide

The Ministry of Information is rolling out the second phase of its 'Say No to Fake News' campaign nationwide. On July 3, 2026, at Reasmei Sophann High School in Stueng district, Kampong Thom province, the campaign saw the participation of over 1,500 students and teachers, with attendance from representatives including H.E. Iv Phally, Undersecretary of State representing H.E. Net Phak Tra, Minister of Information, and H.E. Un Puth, Deputy Governor representing H.E. Noun Pharat, Governor of Kampong Thom Province, and Ms. Ngat Narin, Director of the Provincial Information Department. H.E. Un Puth praised the Provincial Information Department for organizing the campaign, emphasizing that fake news is a "hidden weapon" that can easily destroy social order and individual dignity, especially in the rapidly evolving digital society. He urged students, as "seedlings for the future" and active social media users, to exercise high discernment before clicking 'Share,' asking themselves if the information is true or false, its source, and its benefit to society. He highlighted that fake news poses a significant challenge in the digital era, with profoundly negative impacts on individuals and society as a whole, often used to incite ethnic, religious, or political discrimination, leading to disunity and potentially violence. H.E. Iv Phally informed attendees that the campaign was initiated and led by H.E. Net Phak Tra, Minister of Information, with the strategic goal of enhancing information security and ensuring citizens have access to quality, safe, and truthful information. He acknowledged the campaign's vital role in mitigating the negative consequences and protecting citizens from the risks and dangers posed by fake, distorted, and AI-generated disinformation. H.E. Phally further elaborated on three dangers youth face in the digital age: 1. Fake news, such as fabricated stories and edited images that create social chaos. 2. Online scams that send phishing links to steal data and account information. 3. Cyberbullying through insults, abusive language, and mocking posts. He reported that in 2025, nearly 4,000 pieces of fake news infiltrated social media, impacting societal stability, peace, and order, and generally causing social unrest. To counter this, both individuals and society must enhance their media and digital literacy by thoroughly verifying information sources before believing or sharing. The campaign at Reasmei Sophann High School imparted new understanding to the youth of Stueng district, equipping them to act as a shield for a clean and secure digital society. To further invigorate the campaign and engage the youth, the Provincial Information Department also organized Q&A sessions, gathered input from principals and teachers, and collected commitments from students.