(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet issued a public appeal for national unity and intensified efforts to combat the scourge of online scam networks, calling cyber fraud a serious transnational crime threatening the country’s social security and reputation as well as the stability of the region.

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet wrote on his social media on 13 January 2026.

“In these difficult times, as our country endures acts of aggression against its sovereignty and territorial integrity, I have witnessed a powerful spirit of solidarity and national unity among Cambodians. I have also seen the deep pain shared by our nation and our people,” he wrote. “Yet this pain has ignited sincere patriotism and a firm determination among our people everywhere to build a strong and resilient nation.”

The hardship, the prime minister stressed, is felt by every Cambodian citizen. “The key for our nation at this moment is to transform these difficulties fuelled by the resolute determination of all citizens into a powerful force. We must achieve our sacred national goal: to unite as one to defend our beloved motherland and to strengthen the Khmer nation in accordance with the sacred aspirations of all our people.”

“Moving forward, it is imperative that we unite with a shared commitment to strengthen national potential across all sectors and to eliminate all forms of negative phenomena within our society that weaken the nation,” the premier wrote.

Samdech Thipadei underlined that social security, public order, and the fight against crimes are among the top priorities of the Royal Government to ensure the safety and peaceful lives of the people. In particular, combating crimes, particularly technological and online scam-related crimes, is a critical task at present, standing alongside other key national priorities.

He also noted that from the Sixth Legislature of the National Assembly through the early period of the Seventh Legislature, the government has implemented numerous measures to address such crimes, achieving tangible results.

“The decision of the Seventh Legislature to designate the fight against crime as a top priority is not coincidental. The continued implementation of strict and decisive measures against online scam crimes in recent times serves as clear evidence of the Government’s political commitment to combating this transnational crime, which is a shared concern for Cambodia, the region, and the world,” he added.

Samdech Thipadei continued: “Therefore, I sincerely call for the participation, commitment, and sacrifice of all relevant stakeholders. I especially call for the participation of Cambodians from all walks of life and all political affiliations, as well as civil servants, local authorities, and all competent forces. Together, we can unite as a great force of national solidarity to eliminate all persistent problems related to online scam crimes and enhance the reputation of the Kingdom of Cambodia on the international stage.”

It should be noted that Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet himself chaired the Commission for Combatting Online Scams (CCOS), a high-level task force established in February last year. The commission has been tasked with implementing measures to prevent, suppress, and crack down on online scams.
=FRESH NEWS