Ministry Urges Cambodian Workers Returning from Thailand to Seek Jobs at Home

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.15,2025) — The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training is urging Cambodian workers not to migrate illegally to Thailand, but instead to pursue employment opportunities within Cambodia.

Ministry spokesperson Sun Mesa said the country currently has a demand for about 100,000 labor positions, offering fair wages and benefits across various sectors.

“There are approximately 100,000 job openings in Cambodia, particularly in the industrial sector,” Mesa said. “These jobs are available to all Cambodian citizens of working age, regardless of prior experience. We strongly encourage anyone seeking employment to contact the 1297 hotline for immediate job placement.”

Mesa warned of the serious risks associated with illegal migration, including labor exploitation, lack of legal protections, and the possibility of arrest or deportation by Thai authorities.

He appealed directly to citizens returning from Thailand, urging them to take advantage of domestic job opportunities and avoid re-entering Thailand illegally—especially amid ongoing border tensions between the two countries.

To support Cambodian workers returning from Thailand, the government has introduced several initiatives through the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training. Transit and reception centers have been established at six international border crossings between Cambodia and Thailand to assist with reentry and orientation.

The ministry is also organizing community job forums that bring employers—such as factories and enterprises—directly to local areas to connect with job seekers.

Regular job fairs are being held at technical and vocational training institutions, as well as at National Employment Agency offices, to expand access to employment opportunities. In addition, the ministry is coordinating directly with businesses to match returning citizens with suitable job placements tailored to their skills and experience.

Additionally, the ministry has launched the 1297 hotline as a direct resource for Cambodians seeking employment and guidance.