KhmerTimes-Nov 10
Five thousand young Cambodians began mandatory military training yesterday, marking the launch of the country’s first conscription program on the 73rd anniversary of Independence Day. Prime Minister Hun Manet called the move as a milestone in strengthening national defense at the opening ceremony of the first conscription training intake at the Koh Chne Defense Command in Kampong Speu province. Speaking at the event, he commended the young volunteers and their families for their commitment to serving the nation. He noted that the training would equip recruits with self-discipline, punctuality and practical skills while developing their leadership qualities. He described the recruits as the strongest foundation for national defense. The government has set a recruitment target of 10,000 young people for 2026, divided into two intakes of 5,000 each. The recruitment process will continue annually based on the actual requirements of the armed forces. Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, spokeswoman for the Ministry of National Defense, said trainees under the program would undergo rigorous training for six to eight hours a day during an initial three-month period. Recruits are not permitted to take leave during this phase, with their first leave granted only after completion. She said the National Commission for Military Service began preparations in early October, launching an outreach campaign that attracted more than 15,000 volunteers through municipal and district military police units and an online registration system. Trainees fulfilling their military service obligations receive a monthly allowance of 400,000 riels, along with benefits equivalent to those provided to professional soldiers. For the first intake, the 5,000 recruits have been assigned to eight training centers. Under the law, male citizens aged 18 to 25 must complete 24 months of military service, which can be extended by up to six months. Women may volunteer to serve while exemptions apply for Buddhist monks, religious clergy, people with disabilities and qualified experts.
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https://www.khmertimeskh.com/502053781/first-batch-of-5000-conscripts-starts-military-training/
