Cambodia Prime Minister acknowledged challenges faced by journalists and media agencies, reaffirmed the government’s support for the sector, and urged continuous capacity building among them.
Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen made the point in his open message to cheer the 29th World Press Freedom Day to fall on May 3.
The Royal Government has allowed priority role of the media to play in its political programme, so that it can contribute to the government’s endeavour to address corruption, to carry out judiciary and public administration reforms, and to promote democracy and human rights.
Samdech Techo Prime Minister reiterated that the Royal Government of Cambodia is committed to support the freedom of expression, press freedom, and promotion of government-media partnership indispensable in multi-party democracy.
Themed ‘Journalism under Digital Siege, this year’s press freedom day called on more collective effort from all players including law and policy maker and media agencies to support the freedom of the press, he went on.
It also encouraged deeper understanding of media challenges due to the rise in usage and information dissemination on social media platforms as well as the emergence of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR)
Economic crunch driven by COVID-19 pandemic and global political crisis is also put more pressure on both digital and traditional media, leading to a more competitive media market.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen did not forgot to appreciate journalists as well as media institutions operating in Cambodia for their hard work and contribution to the country’s socio-economic development despite the above-mentioned challenges.
He also encouraged them to keep up with their ethical and professional reporting to secure public trust, to continue building their capacity to survive well in the competitive market, and to avoid fake news and misinformation.
He ended his message with calling on all the journalists and media practitioners to continue exercising safety measures again COVID-19 and get themselves fully vaccinated.
Source: Agency Kampuchea Press