PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen has announced that the Royal Government will not charge people for Covid-19 vaccinations in order to support the public’s livelihoods, and since taking money for vaccinations can also lead to corruption.

Speaking at a meeting with the Samdech Techo Voluntary Youth Doctor Association (TYDA) on Tuesday morning (17 May 2022) at the Chroy Changvar International Exhibition Hall in Phnom Penh, Prime Minister Hun Sen said that if the Royal Government started charging people for vaccination, it would cost from $10 to $15 USD, but doing so could lead to corruption where some may dare to charge $20 or higher.

"This is not the time to take people's money, it is time to help people," he said.

The Prime Minister continued that we cannot charge for vaccination and force the poor to have to borrow money just to get vaccinated, leading to more destitution. He stated that in addition to providing free vaccination, the state will also help support those who are in crisis every month.