Phnom Penh, April 5, 2024: The Ministry of Information in Cambodia has introduced a new, high-quality journalist identification card equipped with QR codes to ensure authenticity and prevent forgery. Neth Pheaktra, Minister of Information, announced the initiative during his visit to the Online Web Service Office (OWSO) at the Ministry on the afternoon of April 4, 2024.

The new ID cards, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, are part of an effort to maintain a clear record of the journalist community within the country. Pheaktra mentioned that the Ministry has refined the techniques for issuing these ID cards and invites journalists who have previously applied to collect their new cards directly from the Ministry's OWSO during regular working hours.

Pheaktra assured that the ID cards would be available to all journalists seeking accreditation from the Ministry of Information, regardless of whether they come from smaller or larger institutions. Media outlets that issue their own ID cards to journalists may continue to do so but are encouraged to incorporate a QR code from the General Department of Information and Audiovisual to ensure compatibility.

The Minister cautioned that low-quality printing by some entities might hinder QR code verification and encouraged journalists to apply for the Ministry-issued ID cards, which will be legally recognized and come with numerous benefits.

Pheaktra expressed his gratitude to the Association of Journalists, media units, and journalists for their cooperation. He highlighted the media landscape in Cambodia, which includes over 2,000 outlets encompassing both traditional and modern platforms and about 10,000 journalists. As of the end of March, over 5,000 journalists had applied for their official ID cards from the Ministry.

The Ministry of Information is dedicated to streamlining the issuance process and enhancing service provision to journalists, signaling an ongoing commitment to supporting the media sector's growth and integrity in Cambodia.