Phnom Penh (FN), Dec. 7 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said that Islamic religious freedom is upheld in Cambodia, allowing Muslim students to wear traditional Islamic clothing at all levels of educational institutions.
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.
“Freedom of worship in Islam is fully supported by the Royal Government. In fact, Cambodian Muslim students are permitted to wear traditional Islamic clothing at all educational levels, with women allowed to wear head coverings and men to wear caps in official documents such as passports and ID cards,” the premier underscored.
Additionally, facilities for worship are available at airports, hospitals, hotels, shopping malls, and notably, at the Peace Palace, where the Council of Ministers has organised a dedicated prayer room.
On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei noted that due to Cambodia’s peace, societal development, and strengthened international relations, Muslim citizens now have greater opportunities to pursue Islamic religious education alongside technical, scientific, and technological skills, with support from various partner nations worldwide.
Prime Minister Hun Manet added that an increasing number of Muslims are able to contribute to society and collaborate with foreign investors to establish businesses in Cambodia.
The premier also announced that next year, the Islamic World Coalition plans to hold an international Islamic conference in Phnom Penh, enabling other nations to learn from Cambodia’s experience in national and religious harmony, and to participate in this significant event.
Samdech Thipadei highlighted that these achievements reflected Cambodian society’s recognition of its Muslim community's contributions. He acknowledged that the Muslim community is a responsible and integral part of Cambodian society.
The premier affirmed that Cambodian Muslims understand that without peace, stability, and harmonious inter-religious relations, human rights, democracy, and religious freedom cannot be realised.
Prime Minister Hun Manet also highlighted the commitment of Khmer Muslim citizens to combating extremism in political and religious activities, which can lead to societal division, anger, discrimination, and violence.
Samdech Thipadei recognised Khmer Muslim citizens as key players in opening Cambodia to the global Islamic economy, including sectors such as Islamic finance and the Halal economy.
=FRESH NEWS
