Phnom Penh (FN), March 8 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen called on all state-run hospitals to provide free medical care to cyclo drivers nationwide, addressing in a breakfast meeting with over 300 cyclo drivers at Koh Pich.

“All the state-run hospitals shall provide free healthcare to members of Cyclo Foundation,” said the Premier, adding that “we can not apply this condition to the private hospitals.”

Cyclo Foundation was initiated by Prime Minister Hun Sen in early January 2018 as the new year’s gift announced in a meeting with 13,000 garment workers in Phnom Penh’s Toul Sangke.

The Premier funded US$30,000 for the initial phase and contributes $2,500 monthly. Phnom Penh governor Khoung Sreng is in charge of Cyclo Foundation. In 2019, the Foundation receives around USD130,000, according to the Premier’s announcement today.

Cyclo is a Khmer traditional vehicle, popular around Sangkum Reastr Niyum period of King Father Norodom Sihanouk.

Cambodia also has Cyclo Conservation & Careers Association (CCCA) and The Cyclo Center, local NGOs providing basic support and social services to the drivers.