On May 16, 2025, during the 80th founding anniversary of the Cambodian National Police, Prime Minister Hun Manet addressed several critical issues, including national security, police reforms, and the future of Phnom Penh International Airport. His speech highlighted key government strategies aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the Cambodian National Police and dispelled rumors surrounding the sale of the airport land.
Prime Minister Denies Rumors About Phnom Penh International Airport
In a strong rebuttal to circulating rumors, Prime Minister Hun Manet confirmed that there were no plans to sell the land of Phnom Penh International Airport. He reassured the public that the airport, located in Posenchey District, would remain a state property under the management of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation (SSCA). The premier clarified that, although a concession agreement in 1995 allowed Société Concessionnaire des Aéroports (SCA) to operate the airport, the ownership and management always stayed with the SSCA.
“The airport must be preserved for its historical value and serve the public’s interests,” said Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet. He urged the public to disregard rumors about the airport’s privatization, adding that only two people, including himself, hold the authority to approve such a sale—neither of whom has done so.
With the airport scheduled to cease operations in July 2025, the government remains committed to ensuring the preservation and appropriate use of this valuable public asset.
Police Reforms: Improving Efficiency and Community Engagement
Prime Minister Hun Manet also focused on the reform of the Cambodian National Police, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of police services. He called for continued reforms to build the capacity of the force, with a strong focus on law enforcement, professional skills, language proficiency, and information technology. These measures aim to ensure that the police force operates with integrity and earns public trust.
“The police must improve service delivery to meet the needs of the people and be responsive to public demands,” stated Samdech Thipadei. He urged the Ministry of Interior and the General Commissariat of the National Police to strengthen community-police relations to foster greater public participation in crime prevention.
Additionally, the premier underscored the need to decentralize police resources, particularly by re-allocating personnel from the central level to grassroots administrative posts. He emphasized that these local posts are crucial in implementing the government’s “Safe Village-Commune” policy, which aims to reduce crime and enhance safety in communities.
Enhancing Public Safety and Disaster Response
In his speech, Prime Minister Hun Manet also addressed the growing need for better emergency response systems, particularly in fire prevention and disaster relief. He emphasized the importance of timely responses to fire-related incidents and encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and cautious, particularly when using electrical appliances and flammable materials.
“Prevention is better than cure. We must all be mindful in the management, storage, and use of electronic, electrical devices, fuels, and flammable materials,” he cautioned. The premier also highlighted the importance of fire safety in urban planning, especially for high-rise buildings. He called for construction standards to include proper emergency exits and fire safety measures to reduce the spread of fires.
Prime Minister Hun Manet also praised the National Police for their collaboration with relevant institutions in disaster relief operations, particularly their responses to recent fires. He commended their preparedness and operational capacity in handling these emergencies, emphasizing the need for continuous training to improve the speed and effectiveness of emergency responses.
Training and Development for National Police Personnel
As part of his vision for police reform, Prime Minister Hun Manet called for further strengthening of police personnel’s professional skills and technical capacity. He emphasized that judicial police officers should have a clear understanding of the law and its enforcement, urging police academies to uphold high standards and ensure that graduates are prepared to serve effectively in the field.
The premier also acknowledged Cambodia’s partner countries, including Vietnam and Laos, for their support in training Cambodian police officers. He expressed his gratitude to these nations for contributing to the professional development of Cambodia’s security forces.
Prime Minister Hun Manet’s address on the 80th anniversary of the Cambodian National Police underlined the government’s commitment to enhancing public safety, ensuring transparency in police operations, and safeguarding national assets such as Phnom Penh International Airport. With a focus on reform, community engagement, and disaster response, the premier’s remarks reflect the government’s dedication to strengthening Cambodia’s security infrastructure and fostering a safer, more prosperous society for all.
In the coming months, Cambodia’s leadership will continue to work on the ongoing reform of the National Police, ensuring that officers are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to serve and protect the public effectively. The government’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accountability remains a central theme in the future development of Cambodia’s law enforcement agencies.
