SIEM REAP: Gen. Hun Manet, President of the Association and Scholarship Fund for Impoverished Students established by Prime Minister Hun Sen and First Lady Bun Rany, said that now and in the future, young people are the driving force in building the country and addressing its challenges. He said that young Cambodians should participate in creating and presenting achievements that bring national pride under the slogan "Khmer can do it". He wants to show the world that Cambodia has moved past its history of divisive conflicts.

Speaking on May 9 at a meeting with staff, professors and students of South-East Asia University in Siem Reap, Gen. Hun Manet said that the Cambodian people should be proud of the nation that they have built in equanimity. He noted the country’s growing presence in the international community, which has come to know the Kingdom for its ability to unite under the spirit of national progress.

"Knowledge is power that gives freedom, choice and influence in competition, independence and opportunity. Therefore, let us continue to work together as one Khmer people to create a positive energy through our efforts to promote knowledge, ability, virtue, and morality worthy of a nation with a glorious civilization comparable to our Angkorian era,” he said.

He encouraged the crowd to refine their mindset and attitude by being open-minded and humble in learning from all walks of life. He said people should be like a blade of grass, resilient in all situations and striving to overcome obstacles without giving up.