Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 7 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that, as a historical fact, the promotion of religious harmony is deeply embedded in the DNA of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP).

The premier spoke on Saturday (Dec. 7) during the opening of the 20th General Assembly of Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP) at Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, "Since the day of liberation on 7 January 1979, religious freedom in Cambodia has been restored. Historically, I can say that the promotion of religious harmony is the DNA of the CPP, and in all mandates of the CPP-led government, we have consistently adhered to this principle."

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also underlined that the previous government, under the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, established the Supreme Islamic Council of Cambodia, a key Islamic body, and appointed leaders from the Khmer Muslim community to prominent roles in national institutions and sub-national administrations.

"Currently, we have five Muslim representatives in the Senate, including one woman, and six members of parliament, including one woman," Samdech Thipadei added.

Premier Hun Manet continued that the Royal Government ensures religious freedom for all. Khmer Muslim students are allowed to wear traditional Islamic attire at all levels of education, with women permitted to wear headscarves and men allowed to wear Islamic caps in photographs for official documents such as passports and ID cards. Additionally, Cambodia has established places of worship at airports, public hospitals, factories, hotels, and even some supermarkets. Notably, the Peace Palace, which houses the Office of the Council of Ministers, also includes dedicated prayer rooms.
=FRESH ENWS