BATTAMBANG: Interior Minister Sar Kheng presided over the inauguration of a new drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation center in Battambang on the morning of August 2. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the importance of strong cooperation with neighboring countries to stop the spread of drugs in the Kingdom. He also thanked Battambang administration for its efforts in maintaining a secure and stable area which has allowed the province to prosper.

The center was built following a proposal from Dr. Ke Sinoun, who has been organizing the project for over two years, having seen a desperate need for drug addict resources in Cambodia. He has a vision for holistic treatment that helps addicts recover and successfully re-enter society. The center will provide accommodation and medical treatment in addition to sports and arts facilities. It will also provide vocational skills and education to recovering addicts, minimizing their chances for relapse.

Interior Minister Sar Kheng spoke at the inauguration ceremony and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting Cambodia’s drug problem in line with the goals of the United Nations. He said that the government has led a campaign to lead, manage and coordinate the fight against drugs with authorities confiscating hundreds of tons of drugs over the last five years.

Battambang already had a drug rehab center but the facility has been plagued with overcrowding and financial woes for over a decade. In August 2022, Battambang authorities rounded up nearly 130 drug addicts which had to be sent to the Sihanoukville Correctional Center across the country for treatment.

Construction for the much-needed facility began in May 2022 to address the rising number of drug addicts on the streets of Battambang. Cambodia has a lack of quality treatment facilities for those living with addiction. Under the Presidency of Dr. Ke Sinoun, the center promises to relieve the stress of local families, addicts and administrators alike.