Cambodia Strengthens Citizen Safety and Well-being Through Peace and First Aid Knowledge

Cambodia on September 21, 2026, marked International Day of Peace and World First Aid Day with a joint ceremony held in Rom Cham 4 village, Sla Kram commune, Svay Chek district, Banteay Meanchey province. The event, themed "Investing in Peace and First Aid for Everyone, Everywhere, Every Time," underscored the critical importance of peace and first aid skills for safeguarding citizens' lives, reducing risks, and enhancing overall safety and well-being. The ceremony was graced by the presence of H.E. Yu Lana, Deputy Secretary-General of the 2nd Degree of the Cambodian Red Cross, representing H.E. Bun Rany Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Red Cross, and H.E. Ouk Ratry, President of the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Red Cross Committee. During the event, H.E. Yu Lana conveyed a high-level message from H.E. Bun Rany Hun Sen, emphasizing the significance of all parties contributing to peace maintenance and the enhancement of understanding and skills in first aid within communities. H.E. Yu Lana highlighted that first aid is not merely a skill for healthcare professionals but essential knowledge for every citizen. He explained that in times of accidents or emergencies, correct and timely first aid can prevent the worsening of conditions and help save the lives of victims before medical personnel can intervene. Furthermore, the promotion of peace and the dissemination of first aid knowledge require the participation of all societal strata, from grassroots levels, schools, families, and communities to relevant institutions and organizations. This collective effort ensures that citizens acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to protect themselves and assist others during emergencies. H.E. Ouk Ratry, for his part, affirmed the importance of organizing such commemorative days at the local level to disseminate and cultivate public understanding of peace, safety, health care, and first aid methods applicable in daily life. He encouraged members, volunteers, and youth of the Cambodian Red Cross, as well as the general public, to continue their involvement in humanitarian activities and first aid work, viewing mutual assistance and the collective building of safe communities as a vital force for improving citizen welfare. The observance served as an opportunity to remind the public that peace signifies not only the absence of war or violence but also the creation of an environment where everyone can live safely, enjoy good health, and support each other during crises. In line with this spirit, investing in peace and first aid is considered an investment in human life. Communities that are peaceful and have citizens equipped with first aid knowledge are better positioned to mitigate risks, respond to emergencies, and provide mutual support during difficult times. The ceremony saw active participation from excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, accompanying delegates, members of the branch and sub-branch committees of the Cambodian Red Cross, volunteers, youth, and a large number of citizens, demonstrating their engagement and support for humanitarian activities and peace promotion within their local communities.