The Cambodian government has declared May 12 each year as a national day to honour the heroism of veterans and retired soldiers who sacrificed for the country.
Prime Minister Hun Manet signed a sub-decree on August 11, 2025, which was made public today, establishing the annual commemoration. The decree states that the day is intended to recognise the bravery and immense contributions of Cambodian veterans and retired soldiers to the nation.
Hun Manet has instructed ministries, national and sub-national institutions, civil society, as well as public and private organisations to help promote the day. The government says the goal is to ensure the wider public understands the values represented by the country’s veterans and retired soldiers.
Observers note that alongside creating this commemorative day, the government should also give greater attention to the livelihoods of veterans, retired soldiers, and serving troops. They caution against only recognising their service during times of conflict while neglecting their welfare in peacetime.
The same sources point out that land allocations, salaries, and continued support are essential to improve living conditions for veterans, retired soldiers, and their families. They add that these measures would also encourage younger Cambodians to serve in the armed forces and strengthen national defence in the future.
On July 29, Hun Manet instructed the Ministry of National Defence and relevant institutions to draft a special incentive policy for armed forces, both military and police, who have been directly involved in protecting Cambodia’s territorial integrity in the ongoing border tensions with Thailand.
Government reports show Cambodia currently has more than 109,000 veterans, with a further 149,000 dependents. All are receiving monthly Social Security payments from the state.
