IDPoor cards, title deeds urged for veterans

KUN Kim, first vice-president of the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM) and secretary-general of the Cambodian Veterans Association (CVA), called on relevant institutions to provide IDPoor cards and title deeds to veterans, their families, disabled individuals and impoverished households.

The appeal was made during the recognition ceremony for Sith Los, Banteay Meanchey provincial police chief, as the president of the Provincial Cambodian Veterans Association (PCVA) on January 21 at the provincial police headquarters.

“All pertinent units are urged to update records for the families of deceased soldiers, veterans and those genuinely in need. Village and commune chiefs are tasked with swift resolution and reporting to the provincial and district Red Cross branch for assistance and intervention by provincial leaders,” he said.

Kim also said that commune councils should convene meetings to allocate a portion of the commune budget for disaster response. In case of shortages, they are encouraged to seek additional support from philanthropists.

Additionally, departments and units across the province should acquire a variety of crop seeds to bolster the One Village One Product (OVOP) Movement. This ensures people can cultivate these crops extensively, enabling them to sell the produce for their family’s sustenance, even while engaged in other activities.

The government said recently that almost 107,000 veterans and over 150,000 dependents currently receive monthly social security payments from the state. Since January last year, the government raised the monthly social security allowance for retirees, individuals unable to work and those with disabilities. Those previously receiving a monthly social security disbursement of 690,000 riel ($172.50) now receive 770,000 riel per month.

Chhort Bunthong, head of the Culture, Education and Tourist Relations department at the Royal Academy of Cambodia (RAC) said on January 22 that the government’s ongoing support for veterans, families of deceased fighters and disabled veterans reflects its commitment to fulfilling duties and obligations, not only during wartime but continually.

“This activity exemplifies repaying a good deed and expressing gratitude to those who serve society. Within this society, mutual assistance is prevalent, and the government’s sustained efforts align with established policies, providing assistance that continues until individuals are deceased,” Bunthong said.

He said that the forces, who have sacrificed their families, time and vitality for the nation, deserve assistance. Consequently, in cases of disability or death, the government should continue to provide support to them and their families.