The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has partnered with On The Road (OTR) to implement a Technology Transfer initiative focused on upcycling plastic and metal remnants of war.
H.E. Heng Ratana, Director General of CMAC, and Mr. Ayumu Takahashi, President of the OTR Board, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at CMAC’s headquarters in Phnom Penh on February 24.
As part of this collaboration, CMAC will establish a specialized workshop dedicated to processing war remnants, including plastic and metal waste. This initiative will be guided by Japanese fine artists, who will provide mentorship, while CMAC will oversee technical material production for local manufacturing in Cambodia.
A key component of the initiative is its social impact—creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities. These individuals will engage in crafting souvenirs that will be sold at the Techo Peace Museum in Siem Reap province. The project aligns with CMAC’s vision of transforming hazardous remnants of war into meaningful and peaceful products, contributing to both economic empowerment and historical preservation.
Through this approach, landmine survivors will have the opportunity to participate in handicraft production, develop creative souvenirs, and generate income through sales at the Techo Peace Museum.
This initiative builds on prior discussions between H.E. Heng Ratana and Japanese fine artists in August 2024, during which they explored the potential of recycling ocean plastic waste into stylish and affordable souvenirs in Okinawa Prefecture.
Source: Ministry of Information
