Manet stresses incremental reforms for sustainable development, growth
Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that reforms are not revolutionary, but rather aim to build upon achievements and ensure sustainability and national interests. He stressed the importance of continuing to address shortcomings in order to further national development.
He said this on February 22, during a ceremony honouring top schools and health centres, asserting that amidst peace, his government will persist in prioritising development and reforms to serve the people’s needs.
To this end, he said the government has implemented its Pentagonal Strategy for growth, equity, efficiency and sustainability. This strategy aims to lay the foundation for Cambodia to become an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income nation by 2050.
“The introduction of our policies was crucial. While all governments aim to achieve milestones for the people, I believe there’s always room for improvement in leadership.
“We didn’t revolutionise these reforms, but rather sustained the same policies. However, what has changed is our approach to priorities and methods in achieving our goals. Therefore, innovation and creativity are essential.
“If I lacked the authority to instruct ministries and institutions and set their goals and tasks, I wouldn’t understand the purpose of my role. While I don’t take the place of ministers, I do have the authority to instruct them to implement policies aligned with government goals,” he said.
Yang Peou, secretary-general of the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said the government has been continuing to lead the country based on the achievements of the previous mandate.
“Manet’s suggestion to expand upon accomplishment is apt, as the Cambodian People’s Party-led government is committed to broadening its achievements, which are instrumental for development,” he said.
He suggested that the government address issues hindering growth, such as the impact of “unscrupulous” officials on the country’s image, necessitating revisions to laws and infrastructure systems.