PHNOM PENH: The world is seeing historical flooding events more frequently as climate change takes its toll and Cambodia is no exception. This morning, Prime Minister Hun Manet issued a message calling on his ministries and provincial authorities to be prepared to address the needs of flood victims before the problems arise.

In this morning’s message, the PM called on provincial governors to pay attention to the needs of search and rescue efforts and economic assistance for victims of natural disasters. The PM requested Senior Minister Kun Kim, who is Vice Chairman of the National Committee for Disaster Management, to monitor the weather in cooperation with the Board of Governors in the provinces and prepare additional emergency response measures for all provinces that are urgently needed to assist flood victims.

He also ordered commissioners and the commanders of the Gendarmerie, Army and Navy to be ready to intervene in potential natural disasters caused by heavy rain. The PM also called on the Minister of Economy to coordinate with relevant institutions to prepare the necessary food and equipment for flood victims. He then asked that the Ministry of Agriculture to prepare rice seeds for farmers whose crops are severely affected.

He said, "Please be prepared in advance to address any problems that may occur. Please accept this responsibility and delegate it in a timely and effective manner."