Cambodia Urges Media to Boost HIV/AIDS Awareness Amidst Youth Concerns

The Ministry of Information has called on media owners, content creators, and news agencies to continue their cooperation in regularly broadcasting educational videos about AIDS. This appeal, made through a letter dated July 16, 2026, aims to enhance the effectiveness of prevention and control measures. This request comes at a time when, despite a steady decline in new HIV/AIDS infections and deaths in Cambodia, the virus remains a concern due to new infections predominantly found among high-risk groups such as youth, men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, and drug users. These groups are the primary focus for ongoing prevention efforts. Previously, media owners, content creators, and news agencies have shown dedication and actively participated in disseminating various health-related educational messages, including those on drug abuse and other societal issues, to broaden public understanding. The Ministry of Information expresses its deep appreciation and gratitude for their role in promoting social well-being. To further invigorate these efforts, the Ministry of Information, Ministry of Health, National Authority for Combating AIDS, and National Authority for Combating Drug Trafficking have collaborated with MSA company to produce two educational videos: one on HIV/AIDS titled "The Mistake of Confidence" and another on drug abuse titled "The First Door." The Ministry of Information urges all media owners, content creators, and news agencies to continue cooperating in broadcasting these two educational videos regularly and multiple times a day, starting immediately, to ensure widespread knowledge for effective prevention and control. Dr. Lo Vasana Kiri, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Health, previously stated that in 2025, the number of AIDS patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy increased from 69,994 to 71,697, a 2.43% rise compared to 2024. A total of 697 patients, including 688 adults and 9 children, were reported to have died. This figure shows a significant decrease compared to approximately 1,100 deaths in 2024.