Cambodian Red Cross Meets Government Scholars, Discusses Disaster Preparedness and Climate Change Response

The Cambodian Red Cross held a meeting with two groups of government scholars, totaling 19 individuals, at its headquarters in Phnom Penh on September 3, 2026. The first group comprised master's degree scholars for the 2026-2027 academic year, while the second group consisted of candidates for the French Republic Government Scholarship. Ms. Pum Chantyney, Secretary General, highlighted key priorities in building community resilience, emphasizing the importance of educating citizens on disaster preparedness and personal health responsibility. She noted that the Cambodian Red Cross's 2021-2030 strategy is halfway complete, with five additional strategic directions set for implementation from 2026 to 2030. These aim to ensure more effective, transparent financial systems, response mechanisms, and human resource development, thereby garnering trust from donors and international federations. The scholars expressed gratitude to the Cambodian Red Cross leadership and inquired about the organization's preparedness and collaboration with the government in responding to current challenges, particularly climate change phenomena like El Niño. In response, Ms. Pum Chantyney stated that the Cambodian Red Cross, in its role as an auxiliary to public authorities in humanitarian affairs, conducts not only humanitarian aid distribution to the most affected and vulnerable but also educational and awareness campaigns on health and community resilience. Concluding the meeting, Ms. Pum Chantyney conveyed the admiration of Madam Bun Rany Hun Sen for the students' dedication to acquiring knowledge for their future. She wished them safety, good health, and success in their studies, encouraging them to return and contribute to the nation while preserving Cambodia's culture, civilization, and identity. Source: AKP Khmer