Cambodia: Investment in Maternal and Child Health Crucial for National Competitiveness

Minister of Health, H.E. Professor Chheang Ra, stressed that reducing maternal and infant mortality is not merely a health indicator, but an investment in the most valuable human capital for the nation's future and its competitive edge. He articulated this profound perspective during the official inauguration ceremony of the new maternity ward at the Preah Net Preah Provincial Hospital in Banteay Meanchey Province, held on the afternoon of August 6, 2026. The grand ceremony was presided over by H.E. Professor Chheang Ra, Minister of Health, and H.E. Kim Chang Yong, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea to the Kingdom of Cambodia. In his remarks, Professor Chheang Ra elaborated on the long-term vision, stating, "Investment in maternal and child health is not just an investment in the health sector; it is also an investment in human capital, in the future of our children, and in the nation's competitiveness. When a baby is born safely, it not only brings happiness to one family but also a brighter future for the entire nation." The Minister further added that in the context of global health development, healthy mothers are better able to care for their children, and safely born infants have full opportunities to grow and develop their potential in the future. For this reason, the Royal Government and the Ministry of Health have consistently given the highest priority to strengthening emergency obstetric and neonatal services, focusing not only on increasing quantity but also on quality, safety, dignity, and high professional standards. This new maternity ward is a fruit of the support from the government and people of the Republic of Korea, through the Korea Foundation for International Health Care (KOFIH) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), who are crucial strategic development partners in enhancing Cambodia's healthcare system. H.E. the Minister expressed his profound gratitude to the Korean side and also commended the proactive efforts and high sense of responsibility of the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Administration, the Provincial Department of Health, and all relevant local authorities who have actively collaborated to meet the needs of the people. This new maternity and women's health building signifies more than just the completion of a civil construction project; it is a valuable asset in building a quality, efficient, safe, equitable, and resilient health system for the people of Banteay Meanchey Province and the border areas. The maternity and women's health building measures 15x50 meters (one-story with a tiled roof) and cost approximately $398,395.98 USD for construction (funded by KOFIH, excluding medical equipment). The infrastructure includes 28 rooms and 12 bathrooms (including 2 for disabled individuals). Key services offered will include natural childbirth, vacuum extraction, and cesarean sections, basic infant care and treatment, cervical cancer screening, treatment for gynecological diseases, vaccination services, family planning, ultrasound services, and pre- and post-natal pregnancy check-ups. This achievement will serve as a strong foundation for increasing confidence and access to high-quality, safe healthcare services for women and infants in remote areas, making them more accessible and timely.