Cambodia Expands Domestic Job Drive, Offering Thousands of Positions to Returning Migrant Workers

KRATIE/KAMPONG THOM, Feb. 16, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training has intensified efforts to generate local employment opportunities for returning migrant workers and job seekers, bringing nearly 3,000 new vacancies directly to communities in Kratie Province.

On Saturday, the ministry organized a Job, Social Security and TVET Forum in Chhloung District, offering 2,806 positions from five factories and enterprises to workers returning from Thailand and to domestic job seekers. The initiative forms part of a nationwide weekly job forum campaign under the theme “Khmer Helping Khmer Find Jobs, Khmer Providing Jobs to Khmer.”

Officials said the strategy aims to connect local workers with employers in their home provinces, reducing reliance on overseas employment and strengthening community stability.

Participants were also briefed on the benefits of joining the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), which provides free medical care at partner hospitals, employment injury protection, and future pension entitlements.

Mol Vibol, Deputy Secretary of State representing Minister Heng Sour, stressed that working locally ensures safety, social protection, and respect for labor rights. He urged youth and returning workers to take advantage of the government’s TVET 1.5 Million Program, designed to equip Cambodians with technical and vocational skills for sustainable livelihoods.

On Sunday, the ministry’s National Employment Agency hosted a similar forum in Kampong Thom Province, presenting an additional 3,095 job openings. The broader nationwide effort has now promoted more than 86,000 job opportunities across the country.

The forums underscore the government’s commitment to inclusive job growth and reintegration support for migrant workers returning from abroad.