Cambodian PM removes mask requirement for open spaces

In a voice message just released, PM Hun Sen announced that Cambodians will no longer be required to wear masks in open spaces.

However, Cambodians will still be required to wear masks in closed spaces.

The PM’s decision came after an inter-ministerial meeting late last night, and was released via a special voice message at approximately 8.30 am today.

In the message, the PM stated “First, exempt the duty of wearing a mask throughout the country in public places and open places other than closed places, leaving the people to make their own decisions to wear a mask or not .’

The PM further explained that the requirement is still in place for closed spaces – i.e. an air-conditioned meeting room or a crowded movie theater – but in the case of public spaces, parks etc, citizens can decide for themselves whether to wear a mask or not.

Places such as restaurants must continue to follow the ministry’s guidelines.

In addition, the Royal Government still encourages the wearing of masks in crowded places.

The removal of mask measures came after the government observed that the rate of COVID cases was at an all-time low, despite the fact that Cambodia allowed the New Year to be celebrated with a large number of people without wearing a mask or keeping a gap.

The PM also stressed the importance of Cambodians receiving a third ‘booster dose’ saying “But in order to ensure the resilience of the wearing of masks and the absence of contagious diseases, I, on the second point, call on our people to adopt the third dose, which is considered the minimum dose. ”

The PM further stated that in order to avoid any confusion, even though he earlier stated that the third dose was ‘compulsory’, authorities will not implement legal or administrative measures, as this dose is based on voluntary principles.