Cambodia Marks 31st World Indigenous Peoples Day

KAMPONG THOM, Cambodia (Sept. 9, 2025) — Cambodia celebrated the 31st World Indigenous Peoples Day on Monday under the theme “Protecting Rights and Shaping the Future of Indigenous Peoples in the Digital Transformation Era.”

The ceremony was presided over by Rural Development Minister Chhay Rithi Sen and attended by more than 800 indigenous participants from across the country.

Rithi Sen said the event reflects Cambodia’s commitment to preserving indigenous culture, morality and traditions, while creating a platform for dialogue and community development.

He emphasized the Royal Government’s continued attention to indigenous issues under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet.

During the ceremony, Rithi Sen read an official letter from the prime minister commemorating the occasion. According to the letter, as of the third quarter of 2025, the Ministry of Rural Development has issued identity recognition letters to 213 indigenous communities, while 155 have been registered as legal entities by the Ministry of Interior. Forty-two communities have received official land titles.

Hun Manet also outlined seven key recommendations for the Ministry of Rural Development and stakeholders, calling for strong collaboration to ensure high-quality and effective development efforts.

Rithi Sen highlighted the government’s achievements over the past two years in economic and social development, noting continued peace, political stability and macroeconomic resilience. He said these efforts support Cambodia’s long-term goal of becoming a high-income country by 2050.