(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who also serves as the First Vice President of the Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Association, instructed the Office of the Council of Ministers to prepare special medals for armed forces personnel who have directly participated in battlefield combat operations.

The premier spoke on Friday morning (May 15) at the celebration of the 19th Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Day at Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh.

“I have instructed the Ministry of National Defence and the Office of the Council of Ministers to study the establishment of special medals for forces involved in the 2025 operations,” said the prime minister. “From now on, every battle and military mission will be formally recognised through appropriate medals awarded to those directly involved in combat and operational support.”

The prime minister explained that the initiative is intended to ensure every military engagement receives its own commemorative recognition, honouring frontline personnel for their sacrifice, courage, and service to the nation.

Prime Minister Hun Manet also highlighted that, while Cambodia has existing national defence medals, each battlefield should have its own commemorative medals to honour those who served. Furthermore, plans are underway to create special medals for soldiers who have sustained injuries or disabilities in combat, to recognise and inspire appreciation for their sacrifices.

Samdech Thipadei added that, although Cambodia already has national defence medals, each battlefield and operation should carry its own symbolic recognition. The government is also studying the creation of special medals for soldiers wounded or disabled in combat as a tribute to their sacrifice and dedication.

He underscored that while the medals may appear physically small, their symbolic value is immense, representing national gratitude toward forces defending Cambodia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also instructed relevant authorities to record events related to the defence of national sovereignty in 2025 on the Win-Win Monument. In addition, the Royal Government is considering the construction of a memorial stupa bearing the names of soldiers who lost their lives defending Cambodia’s territory against encroachment.
=FRESH NEWS