Cambodian King Appeals for Care of Elderly, Disabled, and Impoverished

His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia has issued an appeal to all levels of authorities and fellow citizens to collectively pay attention to and take care of the elderly, disabled, impoverished, and those without support, ensuring they receive adequate food, care, and suitable accommodation within their respective communities. This appeal was made in a Royal Message released on September 23rd, 2026, in observance of Cambodia Elderly Day and International Day of Older Persons, both celebrated on October 1st. The King expressed his profound joy and joined the entire Cambodian nation in celebrating these occasions. He highlighted that Cambodia Elderly Day and International Day of Older Persons, observed annually on October 1st, aim to raise public awareness of the value, dignity, rights, and roles of older persons in society. They also serve to demonstrate care and gratitude towards previous generations who have left behind a legacy of knowledge and made valuable contributions to the building of families, communities, and the nation. Furthermore, His Majesty emphasized the significance of this day for every Cambodian, especially the younger generation, to better understand the importance of respecting, caring for, and paying attention to parents, grandparents, and elderly family members. These individuals are recognized as immense benefactors who have given birth, nurtured, cared for, and educated their descendants. They are also described as living repositories of valuable knowledge and experience, having navigated life, history, events, customs, and cultures within various communities. The King reiterated his call for all authorities and citizens to work together in providing care and support to the elderly, disabled, impoverished, and those without support, ensuring they have access to food, medical attention, and suitable housing. The establishment of elderly care centers or the utilization of pagodas and religious sites, as feasible, to provide shelter, meals, and necessary support, reflects a spirit of gratitude, loyalty, love, and respect. This collective effort contributes to strengthening Cambodian family values, morality, traditions, customs, and solidarity, fostering a society where people of all ages can live harmoniously, with warmth and dignity. Information Source: AKP Khmer