Synopsis: Defence Ministry officials prepare infrastructure and launch physical screening procedures for the first group of conscripted personnel under updated national legislation.
Ministry of National Defence has summoned 5,000 candidates selected in the first phase of military conscription to undergo physical fitness and medical examinations tomorrow.
National Defence Minister General Tea Seiha said in a notice released on Thursday that 5,000 male candidates were selected following the National Military Service Committee’s review of applications. The invited candidates must assemble at 6am tomorrow to travel to training grounds for medical screening.
Candidates in Phnom Penh, Kratie, Kampong Cham, Tboung Khmum, Prey Veng and Svay Rieng must gather at their respective municipal or provincial Military Police Headquarters. Recruits from other provinces will assemble at their local provincial Military Operational Command headquarters.
During the gathering, working groups will brief recruits on procedures and requirements. The committee instructed candidates to bring application receipts, Cambodian national identity cards and essential belongings for potential immediate admission upon passing physical assessments. Recruits can verify details online or through local military headquarters.
Gen Seiha noted that this intake represents the initial phase, with the committee selecting an additional 5,000 candidates to meet the 10,000 conscript quota for 2026.
Alongside the summons, Gen Seiha inspected infrastructure, equipment and accommodation readiness at School for Soldiers No. 4 on Sunday.
Prime Minister Hun Manet announced on October 24 that Cambodia will begin implementing the Law on Military Service on November 9, coinciding with Independence Day. Nearly 15,000 young citizens voluntarily applied within 13 days of opening registration.
Mr Hun Manet said that annual recruitment will continue based on military requirements, noting that military training builds human resources through discipline, leadership skills and moral ethics.
The Law on Military Service came into force on May 23, comprising eight chapters and 20 articles. Under the law, Cambodian male citizens aged 18 to 25 must complete 24 months of service, extendable by up to six months when necessary.
Military service remains voluntary for women, while exemptions apply to Buddhist monks, clergy, disabled individuals and senior specialists on vital national missions. Citizens evading peacetime military service face imprisonment ranging from six months to two years, which increases to two to five years during wartime or foreign aggression.
