Improve working conditions, Hun Sen tells employers

“Labour in Cambodia is now insufficient,” he said at the opening of a new building at the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training. 

“Farms growing industrial crops such as rubber and cashew really need a big labour force. So do the hotel, construction and garment sectors,” Hun Sen said. He added that in order to attract workers, employers in these industries need to pay well. “If they offer high salaries, workers will work there,” he said, adding that housing and welfare benefits were also important.

“I appeal to citizens who are willing to take risks and work abroad, to find work at home. Even though the pay in other countries is more, some migrant workers don’t get paid or end up in jail,” he warned. The prime minister also called on the ministry and factory workers to consider dropping short-term contracts and said the labour law also needed to be strengthened. “The improvement of the labour law for employers and employees is important to ensure the development of labour and vocational training,” he said.

He stressed the need for “good working conditions, a healthy workforce, hygienic conditions, freedom to form unions and more focus on long-term contacts agreed by both sides”.

Workers “want long-term contracts”, he said. “So owners should consider this. If they want workers, they should provide good working conditions.” He also urged employers to address problems by paying compensation and covering medical costs for workers injured in traffic accidents, providing healthcare and preventing mishaps at work.