Cambodia Commemorates Veterans with Tree Planting in New Development Center

On September 6, 2026, a commemorative tree planting ceremony was held at the 'Merotok Techo Dibay Tlok Pring' Veteran Development Center in Santuk district, Kampong Thom province, Cambodia. The event saw the planting of 269 trees, each representing a family of veterans residing at the center. Led by Major General Som Son, Commander of the Kampong Thom Military Operations Area and Deputy Chairman and Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Association, the ceremony was attended by colleagues, including Deputy Governor Chum Virak of Santuk district, and the veterans themselves. The planting took place in and along the roads within the development center, located in Krong village. In his welcoming report, Deputy Governor Chum Virak, responsible for veteran affairs in Santuk district, stated that 269 families, comprising 241 households, are currently living in the development center. He highlighted that this initiative is a gift from Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Association, and Samdech Moha Bovor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Furthermore, 241 households have been granted social concession land, with each household receiving one hectare. The trees planted today include premium species such as Krangyong, Thnong, and Neang Nuon, symbolizing the 269 veteran families. Major General Som Son explained that the veterans residing in this development center are from various districts across Kampong Thom province. Many previously lacked land or adequate housing, or lived on public state land. The Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Association committee has updated their records and, in agreement with all levels of local authorities, has provided new housing and social concession land as a valuable gift from Samdech Techo Dibay, facilitated by His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister General Kith Song Bun, Vice President and Secretary-General of the Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Association. Major General Som Son further emphasized that the 269 trees planted in the assembly hall and along the roads are a symbol for each of the 269 veteran families, intended to be a natural asset for future generations. He also urged the 269 veteran families to continue caring for their respective trees after planting, ensuring their healthy growth and contributing to the beautification and shade of the 'Merotok Techo Dibay Tlok Pring' Veteran Development Center in Kampong Thom province for years to come. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to supporting veterans by providing stable living conditions and fostering community solidarity, alongside promoting environmental conservation.