(Prey Veng): On Saturday (Aug. 23), volunteers from the Singapore Embassy distributed food packs to children in Prey Veng Province as part of a community outreach programme to mark Singapore’s 60th year of independence and 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Cambodia (SG-CAM60). The initiative was carried out in support of Operation Hope Foundation (OHF), a non-profit organisation founded by a Singaporean.
A total of 172 children from the districts of Svay Antor, Kamchay Mear, and Preah Sdach received specially prepared stationery sets and food packs comprising nasi lemak, a popular Southeast Asian dish made with fragrant coconut rice, sambal chili, fried egg, along with meat balls and soymilk, a plant-based beverage high in protein and essential nutrients. Each family also received vegetable seeds and organic fertiliser to help them grow their own gardens for food and extra income. The nasi lemak was cooked by OHF Cambodian staff taught by OHF Founder Robert Kee.
Ambassador Teo Lay Cheng said, “For the Embassy staff who visited Prey Veng, meeting the children and their families, and providing a simple meal, was a powerful and humbling experience”. The Ambassador added, “Partnering with Operation Hope Foundation gave us the opportunity to make a real, human connection. It allowed us to give back with love and respect to communities that have welcomed Singaporeans so generously.” OHF founder Robert Kee said: “This distribution is a special event held for Singapore’s 60th birthday. We will continue to do our best for the people of Prey Veng province.”
Svay Antor District Governor Pich Song thanked OHF and the Singapore Embassy for the contributions. He said, “OHF and Singapore are the only foreign donors helping the poor families in this district. These distributions of food and rations will keep the students fed and capable of staying in school.” Beneficiary Barang Rachana (16) expressed gratitude that OHF built a house, well, and toilet for her family. Without OHF, she would not have clean water or even continue her education. Now she is the top student in her class.
Since 2001, OHF has been building homes, schools, and clean water systems. It has also been supporting education and healthcare initiatives and operating a children’s shelter for vulnerable youth in Cambodia. It has spent over S$6 million delivering tangible benefits through its 35 Khmer staff. The Foundation’s mission is to create lasting impact by breaking the cycle of poverty through practical, long-term support.
=FRESH NEWS
