AGP Executive Report

Measles Alert: Hong Kong’s CHP is investigating a locally acquired measles case in a 19-year-old woman, urging vaccination as the most effective protection. Child Health Fundraising: Cambodia’s Kantha Bopha Foundation Cambodia held a 2,700-step “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” walk at Morodok Techo Stadium to support care for children, with government leaders backing the campaign. Public Health & Water Safety: Editorial coverage warns that untreated wastewater can drive diarrhea, skin and respiratory illness—and raises long-term cancer risk—pushing for earlier pollution prevention over costly treatment later. Health Content Crackdown Backlash: Cambodia faces public backlash after an order to remove public health and medical education content from an online doctor, with critics saying it undermines citizens’ well-being. Animal Welfare & Public Health: FOUR PAWS launched an online reporting tool for Cambodia’s dog and cat meat trade, aiming to improve data collection and highlight welfare and public health risks. Nutrition Program Update (Regional): Indonesia is tightening its Free Nutritious Meals Program, pausing new kitchen builds while improving targeting and food safety, with a focus on pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under five. Food Safety for Exports: Cambodia and China signed sanitary and phytosanitary deals covering beef and dried longans, aiming to help farmers meet new import requirements and reduce market instability.

Wastewater & Cancer Risk: A new editorial argues Cambodia should treat wastewater as a public health priority, warning that untreated liquid waste can spread through water, food chains, and eventually raise long-term cancer risk—often costing less than treating disease later. Climate Rights for Health: Ahead of World Environment Day, the UN backed a resolution reinforcing states’ legal duties to prevent climate harm, while noting ongoing attacks on climate and environmental activists. Cambodia–China Health & Water Funding: Cambodia signed a $1.98m Mekong-Lancang Cooperation package for seven projects, including a hepatitis elimination programme and water data capacity, linking health, rural development, and digital transformation. Affordable Care Abroad: Cambodia’s embassy in South Korea signed an MoU with Soonchunhyang University Hospital to provide subsidised healthcare for Cambodians living there, with plans for joint humanitarian missions. Cross-Border Payments for Tourism: Cambodia and India launched a cross-border UPI/QR system to make digital payments easier for Indian visitors, supporting travel and local businesses. Online Health Content Crackdown Backlash: Cambodian users criticized a move to restrict health content online after a popular doctor was ordered to delete public medical education posts. Animal Welfare Reporting Tool: FOUR PAWS launched an online system for anonymous reporting on Cambodia’s dog and cat meat trade, aiming to improve animal welfare and public health awareness. Road Safety for Workers: Twenty-seven factory workers were injured when a worker lorry overturned in Svay Rieng, with preliminary findings pointing to brake failure.

Online Health Content Crackdown: Cambodia faced backlash after the Ministry of Health ordered a popular online doctor, Dr. Tong (Nit Buntongyi), to delete public health and medical education posts over lack of permission, with medical leaders saying education should not be used to promote unethical products or clinics. Animal Welfare & Public Health: FOUR PAWS launched a new anonymous online reporting tool to document Cambodia’s dog and cat meat trade, collecting reports on pet theft, slaughterhouses and transport to support awareness and dialogue with authorities. Water Pollution & Cancer Risk: An editorial warns that untreated liquid waste can carry toxic chemicals and heavy metals into rivers and groundwater, exposing people through drinking water, fish and crops—and raising long-term cancer risk. Healthcare Access Abroad: Cambodia’s embassy in South Korea signed an MoU with Soonchunhyang University Hospital to provide affordable, subsidised care for Cambodians living there, including joint humanitarian missions. Cross-Border Health Cooperation: Cambodia and Laos agreed to expand border public health work, focusing on malaria prevention and faster outbreak response at international gates. Road Safety for Workers: 27 garment workers were injured when a transport vehicle overturned in Svay Rieng after a reported brake failure; authorities urged stricter maintenance and speed control. Digital Tourism Payments: Cambodia and India launched a cross-border UPI/QR cashless payment system to make travel easier for Indian tourists, supporting tourism-linked businesses.

Affordable Healthcare Abroad: Cambodia’s Embassy in South Korea and Soonchunhyang University Hospital signed an MoU to expand subsidised, quality care for Cambodians and migrant workers in Korea, building on 24 years of hospital support. Cross-Border Health Cooperation: Cambodia and Laos agreed to draft a new health MoU focused on malaria control, infectious disease prevention, and faster outbreak response at border gates, with training and shared data between provinces. Digital Travel Payments: Cambodia and India launched the first phase of a cross-border UPI/QR payment link so Indian tourists can pay in Cambodia using familiar apps, aiming to make travel smoother and safer. Public Health Warning on Water: Editorial coverage highlights how untreated liquid waste can carry toxic chemicals and heavy metals into water supplies, raising long-term cancer risks and adding major costs to health systems and local economies. Maternity Protection Gaps: An ILO report says women in informal work and migrant workers across ASEAN still face uneven maternity benefits and limited healthcare support, calling for better coordination between social protection and health services. Sports for Health: PM Hun Manet urged more sports participation and better public infrastructure to support active lifestyles and reduce health burdens. Trade Pressure on Cambodia: US proposed forced-labour-related tariffs include Cambodia, with public comment and hearings expected before any final decision—an issue that could affect health-linked supply chains and costs.

Cambodia–South Korea Healthcare Access: Cambodia’s Embassy in Seoul signed an MoU with Soonchunhyang University Hospital to expand affordable, quality medical services for Cambodian citizens and migrant workers in Korea. Sports for Public Health: PM Hun Manet urged more sports participation and better public physical-activity infrastructure, saying regular exercise helps prevent disease and eases healthcare burdens. Budget Assurance for Health: The PM pushed back on claims of cuts to education and healthcare funding, saying social-sector budgets will not be reduced and are projected to rise. Health Sector Funding & Care: CHAI renewed support with a focus on maternal and child health, immunisation, non-communicable diseases, and digital health systems. Cancer Awareness & Prevention: KB PRASAC Bank and AIA Cambodia launched a “Prestige Talk Series” seminar on liver cancer prevention, treatment, and financial security. Animal Welfare Reporting: FOUR PAWS launched a Khmer-language online platform for the public to report dog and cat theft, transport, and slaughter linked to the meat trade. Regional Health Diplomacy: Cambodia and Luxembourg discussed strengthening health-sector cooperation. Public Health & Environment: An editorial warned that untreated wastewater is an economic burden and a growing threat to human health. Global Health Security: Researchers were detained over alleged attempts to smuggle MPox vials and human DNA from Congo. Trade Pressure on Cambodia: The US proposed new forced-labor-related tariffs that include Cambodia, adding uncertainty for supply chains that can affect health-related goods.

Maternal & child health funding: Cambodia’s Ministry of Information donated 106 million riel (about US$26,500) to the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation to help sustain free care for children, as Kantha Bopha Hospitals report heavy demand across Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Animal welfare & public health: FOUR PAWS launched a Khmer-language online reporting platform for the public and tourists to share information on dog and cat theft, transport, trafficking and slaughter—aiming to support awareness and long-term solutions. Climate-linked food safety: Extreme heat and very low water levels killed about 2,000 kg of fish in Siem Reap’s Tamouk Lake, raising fears of more losses without rain. Primary healthcare & UHC: CHAI renewed support with Cambodia’s Health Ministry, focusing on maternal/newborn/child health, immunisation, non-communicable disease care and digital health systems. Anti-misinformation: Information Minister Neth Pheaktra proposed a Mekong information integrity network and regional fact-checking/rapid response mechanism to fight fake news across borders. Health diplomacy: Cambodia’s Health Minister met a Lao ambassador as CHAI and other partners continue backing system strengthening.

Child Health Funding: Cambodia’s Ministry of Information donated 106 million riel (about US$26,500) to the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation to help sustain free care for children. Anti-Misinformation Push: Information Minister Neth Pheaktra called for a Mekong Information Integrity Network and a regional fact-checking and rapid response system, saying fake news is now a strategic threat to trust and stability. Climate & Food Security: Extreme heat and low water levels killed about 2,000kg of fish in Siem Reap’s Tamouk Lake fish sanctuary, with locals warning more losses could follow without rain. Health Diplomacy: Cambodia’s Health Minister met the Lao ambassador, highlighting ongoing regional health ties. Wellness at Work: Crystal International expanded free vision screening in Cambodia, Vietnam and Bangladesh, reaching 38,000 workers with eye exams and free glasses. Public Health Protection: The Environment Ministry said enforcement since 2025 blocked over 30 million cubic metres of polluted industrial effluent from waterways, supporting safer conditions for communities. Children’s Rights: Cambodia marked International Children’s Day with events stressing peace, child protection, and health and welfare.

Kantha Bopha Fundraising: Cambodia’s second “Run for Charity” drew nearly 2,000 participants and raised about 104 million riel (around US$25,900) to keep free care flowing for children at Kantha Bopha Hospitals. Child Health & Rights: International Children’s Day events across Phnom Penh and Siem Reap highlighted child protection, health and welfare, with officials distributing milk to hundreds of children and calling for peace as the foundation for rights. Hospital Emergency Readiness: A Ministry of Health medical official shared lessons from treating injured soldiers and retrieving bodies after Thailand border clashes, saying Cambodia has strengthened emergency response capacity since COVID-19. Public Health Protection: The Environment Ministry reported stopping over 30 million cubic metres of polluted industrial effluent from entering ecosystems since 2025, citing tougher enforcement and wastewater monitoring to protect public health. Wellness Tourism: Cambodia plans a 12th International Day of Yoga in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, promoting mental and physical well-being through yoga and exercise. Health System Research: A new commentary argues hospital operational failures are clinical failures, pushing for more evidence-based health systems research to reduce delays, lost referrals and patients leaving without care. Health & Safety for Children: World Vision marked 56 years in Cambodia, pledging continued support for children’s health, education, protection and WASH.

Border Health & Safety: Cambodia and Thailand traded fresh calls for dialogue as Phnom Penh protested alleged Thai military construction in disputed border areas, raising concerns for civilians’ safety and access. Child Health Funding: A charity “Run for Charity” raised about $26,500 (106 million riel) for Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital, supporting free care for children and expectant mothers amid rising demand. International Children’s Day: Cambodia marked International Children’s Day with events focused on child rights, health, and protection, with leaders urging peace as the foundation for safer childhoods. Water Pollution Control: The Ministry of Environment said enforcement since 2025 blocked over 30 million cubic metres of industrial effluent from waterways, a move aimed at protecting public health. Wellness & Exercise: Cambodia plans a 12th International Day of Yoga in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to promote mental and physical well-being through yoga and meditation. Public Health Risks from Pets: Conservationists warned Cambodia’s growing exotic pet trade could spread diseases between wildlife, animals, and humans. King’s Recovery Update: King Norodom Sihamoni thanked Singapore’s president for birthday wishes after prostate cancer surgery and hospital treatment.

Child Health Funding: First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet urged Cambodians to back Kantha Bopha Foundation’s “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” campaign, saying the hospitals need about US$45 million a year to keep free care for children and pregnant women running. Community Fundraising: A second “Run for Charity” event drew nearly 2,000 participants and raised 104 million riel (about $25,900) for Kantha Bopha, with races held at Eco Park in Phnom Penh. Emergency Care & Preparedness: A Ministry of Health advisor, Kros Sarath, shared what it takes to treat injured soldiers and retrieve bodies after Thailand border clashes, highlighting Cambodia’s strengthened emergency response capacity. Public Health & Policy: Prime Minister Hun Manet reaffirmed the government’s commitment to child rights on International Children’s Day and World Day Against Child Labour, pointing to progress in healthcare, nutrition, education, and child protection. Wellness Initiative: Cambodia’s Tourism Ministry launched a yoga programme with the Indian Embassy to support physical and mental well-being for ministry staff. Health & Safety Awareness: Authorities reported inspections that processed dozens of foreigners in Phnom Penh districts, including cases involving missing passports or expired visas.

Child Health Funding: Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation’s First Lady-led “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” campaign is urging public support to keep Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospitals running, citing about US$45M needed annually for free care for children and pregnant women. HIV Progress: The health minister says Cambodia hit the 95-95-95 HIV targets in 2025 and is on track to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, with plans to expand testing, prevention and treatment including PrEP and self-testing. Hospital Support: The Cambodian Red Cross donated US$1M to Kantha Bopha for its ninth straight year, highlighting the hospital’s scale and the rising costs of maintaining free pediatric services. Jobs & Health Security: Labour officials say Pursat has 10,732 local job vacancies under a push for legal work with National Social Security Fund coverage, plus warnings to avoid overseas recruitment scams. Public Health & Safety: Cambodia’s health ministry urged vigilance after a new COVID-19 variant was detected, as authorities also reviewed an EIA for a proposed paint factory in Kandal to protect public health and ecosystems. Wellness Promotion: Cambodia’s Tourism Ministry launched a yoga programme with the Indian Embassy to support physical and mental well-being for staff. Community Resilience: In Mondulkiri, a Bunong indigenous representative with a disability recounts surviving the late-1990s tragedy and fighting for her community’s identity and rights. Life Expectancy Link: New analysis using World Bank data links Cambodia’s economic growth to rising life expectancy, while noting COVID-19’s impact on the trend.

HIV Progress: Cambodia hit its 95-95-95 HIV targets last year and is “on track” to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, with the Health Minister saying prevention, testing, treatment, and self-testing will keep expanding. Child Health Funding: The Cambodian Red Cross donated US$1M to Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital for its ninth straight annual push, as the hospital faces rising costs and continues free care for children. Jobs & Health Safety Net: Cambodia’s Labour Ministry opened 10,000+ local jobs in Pursat with free skills training and National Social Security Fund coverage, urging workers to avoid illegal overseas recruitment scams. Workplace Health & Environment: Officials reviewed an Environmental Impact Assessment for a paint factory in Kandal, focusing on waste, chemical handling, air quality, odour control, and fire safety before the project can proceed. Child Welfare Run: A second “Run for Charity” in Phnom Penh drew nearly 2,000 participants and raised 104 million riel for Kantha Bopha Hospital. Public Health Awareness: RainWater Cambodia marked Menstrual Hygiene Day in Preah Vihear, training schools and students to reduce stigma and improve access to hygiene supplies. Healthcare Partnerships: Cambodia and Luxembourg signed an MoU to strengthen health sector cooperation, including RMNCH, blood donation, equipment support, and healthcare workforce development.

HIV Response: Cambodia says it hit the 95-95-95 HIV treatment targets last year and is on track to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, with plans to keep expanding testing, prevention, treatment, and pre-exposure prophylaxis. Child Health Funding: The Cambodian Red Cross donated US$1M to Kantha Bopha Children’s Hospital for free pediatric care, as hospital costs are reported at about US$45M annually. Hospital Support & Nutrition: Cambodia’s Ministry of Information women’s association delivered vitamin-fortified rice to Cambodia-China Preah Kossamak Hospital to ease patient burdens during treatment. Health System Partnerships: Cambodia and Luxembourg signed an MoU to strengthen health cooperation, focusing on health workforce, equipment, infrastructure, RMNCH, and blood donation—especially in remote provinces. Public Health Access: Kampong Cham inaugurated a $13M clean water supply station, aiming to improve public health for thousands of families. Ebola Preparedness & Data Gaps: A new report warns gender-blind Ebola data can hide how outbreaks affect women differently, urging gender-sensitive response as Congo and Uganda manage an Ebola emergency. Workplace Safety & Standards: Labour officials reviewed progress under the Better Factories Cambodia programme, including priorities for occupational safety and health and social security. Local Care Story: A child’s hernia surgery was funded after delays and cost barriers at public services, highlighting ongoing access gaps for families.

Health Sector Cooperation: Cambodia’s Ministry of Health signed an MoU with Luxembourg to strengthen cooperation on health workforce, medical equipment, infrastructure, RMNCH, and blood donation—prioritising remote provinces like Stung Treng and Rattanakiri. Hospital Nutrition Support: Cambodia’s Ministry of Information women’s association donated 300 boxes of vitamin-fortified rice to Preah Kossamak Hospital to support patients during treatment. Child Health Fundraising: KB PRASAC Bank donated 200 million riels to the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation’s “10,000 riels, 10,000 people” campaign, backing free exams and treatment for children. Menstrual Hygiene in Schools: RainWater Cambodia marked Menstrual Hygiene Day in Preah Vihear, bringing together local authorities and 322 students to tackle stigma and improve access to hygiene supplies. Cancer Care Advances: A report highlights how lung cancer treatment is increasingly guided by molecular testing and PD-L1 status to match patients with targeted therapies and improve outcomes. Ebola Data Warning: A new Congo report warns that gender-blind Ebola data can hide how outbreaks affect women differently, urging health systems to track gender impacts. Public Health & Safety: Cambodia’s immigration authorities conducted health checks and provided initial medical support during the handover of 109 Vietnamese citizens repatriated from Cambodia.

Hospital Nutrition Support: Cambodia’s Ministry of Information women’s association donated 300 boxes of vitamin-fortified rice to Cambodia-China Preah Kossamak Hospital to help patients during treatment. Health Sector Cooperation: Cambodia and Luxembourg signed an MoU to strengthen health cooperation, focusing on health workforce, medical equipment, infrastructure, RMNCH, and blood donation—especially in remote provinces like Stung Treng and Rattanakiri. Child Health Fundraising: KB PRASAC Bank donated 200 million riels to the Cambodia Kantha Bopha Foundation’s “10,000 riels, 10,000 people” campaign, backing free care for children. Maternal & Child Health Leadership: Cambodia’s First Lady launched the 2026 “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” drive, hoping it becomes an annual event for saving children’s lives. Public Health Alerts: Cambodia’s health authorities urged vigilance over new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1 and earlier Ebola/hantavirus preparedness steps. Migration & Worker Health: Cambodia intensified a campaign to shift returning migrant workers into formal local jobs, warning that illegal migration can expose people to exploitation and no legal protections.

Child Health & Climate: Cambodia is urged to treat climate change as a child-development and public-health crisis, with extreme heat, polluted air, unsafe water, and climate-linked diseases raising risks for children. Fundraising for Kids: First Lady Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet launched the 2026 “10,000 Riel, 10,000 People” Kantha Bopha Foundation drive, aiming to make it a major annual event tied to International Children’s Day. Health System Support: The Health Ministry ordered upgrades to district referral hospitals, while Cambodia also urged vigilance after reports of a new COVID-19 variant and a new SARS-CoV-2 variant. Maternal Malaria Prevention: A new systematic review highlights the benefits of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in HIV-positive pregnancies, reinforcing the value of scheduled antenatal drug prevention. Medical Aid in Provinces: South Korea’s Global Life Sharing delivered medical supplies and daily necessities to Kandal province, targeting vulnerable families and public health needs. Road Safety Oversight: A Battambang traffic case official was suspended after irregularities were found in how a fatal accident was handled, keeping pressure on accountability in emergency and hospital pathways. Youth & Policy: Cambodia’s conscription law details recruitment for 24 months, with officials saying enforcement will be transparent—an issue that can affect young people’s health and wellbeing planning.