Phnom Penh: Prime Minister Hun Sen has wished Cambodians good health and “safe travels” on the last day of the 15-day festival of Kan Ben, which is known as Pchum Thom.

In a message released on Wednesday morning, he says, “Due to the pandemic, we could not celebrate Pchum Ben according to the national tradition at the pagoda. The most important thing now is that we have to take care of life, we still have the opportunity to celebrate Pchum Ben and many other important festivals later.”

The Prime Minister has thanked everyone who brought gifts and food to monks at pagodas and for following the guidelines of the Ministry of Health. “At the same time, for those who visit resorts, please be very careful to wear a mask, to wash your hands with soap or alcohol often and to keep a safe distance. Do not go to crowded places where there is a high risk.”

He has encouraged authorities at all levels to increase security, safety and public order, both on the streets, in resorts and in pagodas, “to ensure security, order and health and prevent the spread of Covid-19.”

The Prime Minister ended his message by wishing “all my compatriots good health everywhere, safe travels and avoid all Covid-19 infections.”