Government braces for population boom

As the Kingdom anticipates population growth to reach 20 million by 2030, Prime Minister Hun Sen yesterday predicted that most citizens will eventually gravitate towards urban areas.

According to Mr Hun Sen during a speech in Phnom Penh, the population of Cambodia could even potentially reach 25 million by 2050.

“The growth of Cambodia’s economy, along with better living standards, will result in demographic transition,” he said. “Most Cambodians will move to live in urban areas.”

Currently, Cambodia is estimated to have about 16.01 million people, with 1.5 million residing in Phnom Penh.

Additionally, the government is set to conduct its third nationwide census survey from March 3 to March 13.

Mr Hun Sen earlier this month said citizens must answer truthfully during the census, noting that it will be the first survey carried out after the Kingdom has achieved being classified as a lower-middle income country.

“The census data will work as an indicator to monitor and check the work implemented under the National Strategic Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goals, without leaving anyone behind,” he said at the time.

“The general population census survey is not related to political issues – it does not serve the interest of a political party – and it won’t make people lose money,” he added. “The work is for the prosperity of Cambodians.”

Hang Lina, director-general of the National Institute of Statistics, yesterday said the government will use its own budget to carry out the ten-day census survey.

However, Ms Lina said the United Nations Population Fund will send manpower and the Chinese government has donated equipment to help in the field.

“The Chinese government donated cars, motorbikes, desktop computers and other equipment worth about $2.5 million,” she said.

In other news, Mr Hun Sen during his speech urged the Interior and Land Management Ministries to draft the Law on Public Order to reduce traffic jams in cities and ensure public order across the Kingdom, in a bid to facilitate population growth.

“In order to attract and maintain the beauty of cities, we need to consider public order,” he said. “I requested [the ministries] to create a study and draft the Law on Public Order.”

He urged sub-national officials to beautify the city to welcome people and tourists.

“All sub-national authorities must ensure that your cities have public order, especially at parks and sidewalks,” Mr Hun Sen added. “It is to make it easier for citizens and tourists.”