Phnom Penh, June 21, 2024 – The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training is exploring a pilot project with South Korea to import robotic rehabilitation equipment for injured workers in Cambodia. This initiative aims to support employees who have suffered significant injuries, such as limb loss, during their employment. Plans are also underway to establish a dedicated rehabilitation center that will offer these services free of charge to those affected by work-related accidents.

Mr. Ouk Sam Oun, Director of Public Relations at the Ministry, shared that the proposed center will be equipped with advanced robotic devices to aid in the rehabilitation of workers. This project is currently under study with a Korean firm and is yet to be finalized.

In the past, the Ministry has provided various support services such as prosthetics, crutches, and wheelchairs to accident victims. The new initiative aims to leverage modern robotic technology to enhance mobility and improve recovery outcomes for injured workers.

The project is in the preliminary stages but has garnered significant support from various stakeholders who are eager to see its development expedited to benefit workers in need. According to Ms. Phean Sophoan, Director of Oxfam, the introduction of robotic rehabilitation represents a progressive step for Cambodia, offering a new level of service that has been largely unavailable in the country so far.

In addition to the rehabilitation project, Ms. Sophoan advocated for the expansion of social security card acquisition among workers by strengthening registration and contribution monitoring processes across multiple sectors including garment, agro-industry, construction, transport, and services.

HE Heng Sophannarith, Deputy Director General of the National Social Security Fund, emphasized the importance of understanding the social security system to safeguard workers' health and welfare. The government has previously implemented policies offering free health insurance and other benefits to workers, reinforcing its commitment to their well-being.

The initiative to establish a rehabilitation center equipped with robotic technology is seen as a significant advancement in supporting the disabled and injured workers, aligning with Cambodia’s efforts to integrate modern technology into public health services.