Phnom Penh: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Civil Service H.E. Hun Many presided over a ceremony to bestow Cambodian Red Cross scarves on youth volunteers from 25 high schools across Kampong Speu province: The event, held in front of the Kampong Speu Provincial Hall on Mar. 17, highlighted the crucial role of young volunteers in humanitarian efforts. The ceremony, attended by approximately 1,300 participants, including provincial officials, dignitaries, and Red Cross members, saw Hun Many, who also serves as Honorary President of the Kampong Speu Provincial Red Cross Committee, and H.E. Mrs. Pum Chantinie, Secretary-General of the Cambodian Red Cross, personally present the scarves to the young volunteers.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many emphasised the significance of youth volunteers within the Red Cross movement. He noted that these young individuals are part of a global network of over 16 million volunteers, forming the backbone of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and serving as frontline responders in humanitarian operations worldwide.
He also gave a brief history lesson of the Cambodian Red Cross, stating that “The Cambodian Red Cross, established on Feb. 18, 1955, and admitted as the 85th member of the International Federation on Oct. 7, 1960, tragically lost its youth volunteer base during the Khmer Rouge regime. The resurgence of youth involvement began after the Red Cross’ first general assembly in 1994, which unified three separate Red Cross groups into a single national association.”
H.E. Hun Many stressed that the youth are the successors to the nation, vital for its continued development. “The Kampong Speu Provincial Red Cross will continue to support and encourage youth to actively participate in social activities and economic development,” he stated.
He further pledged that the provincial branch would strengthen cooperation with all stakeholders to provide opportunities for young people to develop their skills and contribute to building a sustainable society.