Mandatory Military Service in Cambodia Aims to Develop Skills and National Capacity

Phnom Penh:Cambodia's implementation of mandatory military service seeks to enhance not only national defense but also the development of human resources and practical skills among the youth, according to Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the Prime Minister discussed the Mandatory Military Service Law during a graduation ceremony at Asia Euro University. He noted that nearly 3,000 young individuals applied on the first day of the announcement, marking a historic step in the execution of the country's military service law.

The law aims to foster human-resource development within both the national defense sector and broader society, intending to cultivate capable, disciplined, and responsible citizens. The two-year program offers young people various skills beyond military training, including discipline, teamwork, radio communications, finance, technical skills, foreign languages, and computer skills.

The Royal Government views the program as an investment in human resources, contributing to the reform and modernization of the armed forces. It provides youth with the opportunity to serve the nation while enhancing their professional capabilities, skills, and sense of responsibility.

The Mandatory Military Service Law requires youth aged 18 to 25 to serve for 24 months. The Ministry of National Defence announced that the application form distribution period is from October 1 to 9, with submissions accepted from October 10 to 15.