Phnom penh: President of the Cambodian Red Cross (CRC), accompanied by senior officials, their spouses, and numerous philanthropists, visited displaced families temporarily sheltered in Kampong Thom province on Aug. 8 to offer encouragement, inquire about their well-being, and distribute humanitarian aid. A total of 2,384 families, comprising 6,330 people, are currently staying in 9 districts and city across Kampong Thom province after fleeing, including 818 families from the provinces of Preah Vihear, 1,402 families from Oddar Meanchey, and 164 families from Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Pailin, and Koh Kong. The ceremony took place at the Kampong Svay District Stadium.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, H.E. Nuon Pharath, Governor of Kampong Thom and Head of the Provincial Red Cross Branch, welcomed the delegation and highlighted the CRC's commitment under the leadership of Samdech Bun Rany Hun Sen to collaborate with the Royal Government and relevant authorities to provide food and essential supplies to alleviate the hardships of displaced citizens.
In her remarks, Samdech Bun Rany Hun Sen expressed sympathy for elderly citizens, women, and children forced to leave their homes due to border tensions. She conveyed warm regards and concern from His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni and Her Majesty Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, emphasizing Their Majesties' care for the well-being of all Cambodians.
Samdech Bun Rany underscored the CRC's role as a humanitarian auxiliary to public authorities, prioritizing the welfare of citizens with donated food and supplies from generous individuals and organizations. She called on all Cambodians to maintain solidarity and compassion, citing the Khmer saying, 'Love one another in times of hardship.'
She also urged everyone to maintain good health, keep their surroundings clean, and boil water before drinking to prevent illness. For pregnant women, she advised regular prenatal check-ups at nearby health centers or hospitals to avoid unnecessary risks.
Each family received 30 kg of rice, one case of instant noodles, 10 cans of canned fish, six bottles of soy sauce, six bottles of fish sauce, one bottle of cooking oil, two kilograms of laundry detergent, a kit containing a sarong, scarf, mosquito net, and blanket, one loaf of bread, one bottle of drinking water, and 50,000 Riel (US$12.50) in cash. These supplies and cash assistance were contributed by philanthropists through the CRC.
Displaced residents expressed gratitude for the compassion and care extended by Samdech Bun Rany Hun Sen, noting her inclusive approach and commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.