Cambodia Empowers Youth to Combat Drug Abuse and Enhance Traffic Safety

Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia – September 19, 2026 – An awareness event on drug abuse prevention and traffic law compliance was held at Chub Varr High School in Preah Net Preah District, Banteay Meanchey Province, on September 19th. Mr. Yim Samnang, Deputy Governor of Banteay Meanchey Province and Standing Committee Member of the Provincial Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC), stated that understanding the impact of drugs and respecting traffic laws are crucial for protecting the future of youth and maintaining social safety, as young people are considered a vital force in disseminating knowledge and fostering positive behaviors within the community. The event was attended by approximately 300 participants, including district council members, deputy district governors, deputy district police chiefs, commune chief representatives, representatives from the education office and district operational office, and the principal of Chub Varr High School, along with students. During his address, Mr. Yim Samnang underscored the importance of disseminating knowledge and education on drug issues and traffic laws. He emphasized that preventing these problems cannot rely solely on competent institutions or local authorities but requires the participation of all parties, especially youth and students. He noted that youth are significant human resources for national development, and keeping them away from drugs is a meaningful contribution to building a healthy, moral, and capable workforce that can continue to participate in the development of the community and the nation. In this regard, he urged youth and students to clearly understand that drug abuse is not just an individual problem but can affect families, schools, communities, and society as a whole. Therefore, prevention and mitigation must begin with awareness, caution, and the ability to make sound decisions when faced with negative influences or temptations. He also stressed the role of the UYFC in serving as a bridge connecting youth, authorities, schools, and communities to further disseminate knowledge and enhance youth participation in addressing social issues. Beyond drug issues, Mr. Yim Samnang also focused on the importance of respecting traffic laws, particularly for youth and students who are daily road users. He urged all road users to be mindful of the law, exercise caution, and understand the potential risks if laws are violated or roads are used without due care. For young people, obeying traffic laws is not only a driver's obligation but also a social behavior that must start with each individual. Wearing helmets, respecting the rights of fellow travelers, avoiding reckless driving, and understanding traffic signals are points that should be practiced regularly. The organization of this program is seen as a platform to provide direct knowledge to youth and students and to encourage them to become disseminators to their friends, families, and communities. Concurrently, the participation of local authorities and the three forces demonstrates cooperation among stakeholders in preventing and resolving issues that could affect the security, safety, and well-being of the citizens. Finally, Mr. Yim Samnang appealed to young people to use their time productively, strive in their studies, participate in social activities, and stay away from actions that could destroy their future. He also encouraged students to share the knowledge gained from the program with their friends and family members, ensuring that education extends beyond the classroom into the community. By Chun Sarath © 2018 National News Agency of Cambodia