PM says military service will help build youth capacity for peace, national development and defence
Prime Minister Hun Manet speaking at the National Assembly yesterday ahead of the unanimous approval of the draft law on military service. AKP
Prime Minister Hun Manet has called for a shift in public perception of military service, urging people to view it not as a burden but as an honour and a responsibility for Cambodian youth and their families.
Speaking at the National Assembly (NA) yesterday, ahead of the draft law on military service’s unanimous approval, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of strengthening Cambodia’s human resources to safeguard peace, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
“Cambodia is no different from other countries around the world. We must strengthen our people’s capacity to turn challenges into opportunities, especially in maintaining peace and protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Cambodia must rely primarily on its own strength to safeguard peace and national security.
“We cannot rely entirely on others to protect our peace. Recent experiences have clearly shown that no one can help us completely at all times except ourselves,” he stated.
Mr Hun Manet noted that many countries are increasingly adopting the principle of “peace through strength,” and added that Cambodia must also strengthen its national capacity. “The pursuit and preservation of peace cannot depend solely on external assistance. We must help ourselves,” he emphasised.
According to the Prime Minister, the draft law is an important means of developing capable human resources for national defence while also fostering patriotism, discipline, ethics, and professionalism among citizens.
“This law is necessary and indispensable for strengthening national defence and national unity. It not only contributes to protecting peace and territorial integrity, but also helps build disciplined and capable human resources for the nation,” he said.
The National Assembly approved the draft law during an extraordinary session held at the NA Palace under the chairmanship of NA President Khuon Sudary.
All 114 lawmakers present voted in favour of the draft law, which consists of eight chapters and 20 articles.
Under the proposed legislation, all male Cambodian citizens aged between 18 and 25 will be required to complete 24 months of military service, consistent with practices in several countries worldwide. Military service for women will remain voluntary.
The implementation is expected to begin in 2026, with registration starting at age 17.
Exemptions will apply to Buddhist monks, religious clergy, citizens with exceptional academic or professional qualifications, and persons with disabilities.
The Royal Government stated that the 2006 military service law no longer fully reflects current realities, making revision necessary to strengthen national defence, protect territorial integrity, and instil patriotism among future generations.
The revised framework is also expected to support structured recruitment and to equip young citizens with discipline, training, and practical skills that can benefit both military and civilian life. AKP
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