AKP Phnom Penh, April 26, 2026 —

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet said Cambodia’s job creation strategy is based on both quantity and quality, stressing that employment opportunities must be decent, lawful, and respectful of workers’ rights.

The Prime Minister made the remarks during a meeting with representatives of trade unions, informal economy workers, and education staff associations to mark the 140th anniversary of International Labour Day on May 1, held at Koh Pich Convention and Exhibition Center in Phnom Penh on Sunday morning.

Samdech Thipadei said quality jobs should meet key standards, including compliance with labour laws and protection of employees’ rights. He also urged all business owners, factories, and enterprises to respect legal obligations and ensure fair treatment of workers.

“We do not seek jobs that ignore the law or violate workers’ rights,” the Premier said. “Our commitment is clear. We cannot create jobs simply because they offer high salaries while turning people into modern-day servants. Employment must respect the law.”

He added that Cambodia has enabled the formation of workplace unions and labour federations so workers can organise and defend their rights.

International Labour Day on May 1 is commemorated annually worldwide and has long been observed by the Royal Government of Cambodia.

This year’s theme, “Building Resilience Together for Decent Work,” reflects the Royal Government’s commitment to promoting a resilient and sustainable labour market, improving working conditions, safeguarding labour rights and freedom of association, strengthening social protection systems, and advancing social dialogue.

The Royal Government said these efforts are intended to benefit workers in both the formal and informal sectors, improve industrial relations, and transform each enterprise into what it described as “a peaceful community,” while building greater resilience for decent work in Cambodia.

Article in Khmer by Kong Sereyrath 
Article in English by C. Nika