Cambodia Advocates for Enhanced Parliamentary Role in Addressing Demographic Shifts at AFPPD Conference

A Cambodian parliamentary delegation participated in the annual conference of the Asian Parliamentarians on Population and Development (AFPPD), held on September 3, 2026, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The delegation, with the high approval of National Assembly President Khuon Sudary, was led by Lok Keang, Chairperson of the 8th Commission of the National Assembly and Standing Vice President of the AFPPD. The presence of the Cambodian parliamentary delegation at this regional forum reflects Cambodia's active commitment to strengthening the legislative role in addressing demographic shifts and promoting inclusive and sustainable development. The conference brought together over 100 parliamentarians from 22 countries across the Asia-Pacific and Africa. During the conference, the Cambodian delegation engaged in discussions and exchanged views on improving the policy environment and legal mechanisms to support the implementation of the Action Programme of the International Conference on Population and Development, as well as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Furthermore, the entire conference focused on the four key strategic pillars of AFPPD: gender equality and women's empowerment; investing in youth energy and potential; promoting active aging; and responding to climate change. The opening ceremony of the conference was graced with warm welcomes from distinguished international dignitaries, including Dato Awang Bemee Awang Ali Basah, President of the Senate of Malaysia; Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Labour of Malaysia; Yoko Kamikawa, Member of the Japanese Parliament and Chairperson of AFPPD; and Mr. Pio Smith, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Deputy Executive Director for Programme at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).