Synopsis: The National Defence Ministry begins fitness and medical examinations for the first batch of 5,000.
More than 15,000 youths registered for military service in 2026, marking the first year of the Law on Military Service, as the Ministry of National Defence prepares to recruit 10,000.
Physical and medical examinations have begun for the first group of 5,000.
Ministry spokeswoman Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said on Tuesday that the strong response from young citizens demonstrated their commitment to serving the nation, defending the motherland and personal development.
She said that since early October, the National Military Service Committee has launched an information campaign and opened registration at municipal, provincial and district military police offices. An online registration system was introduced to make applications accessible nationwide.
Under the government plan, the ministry is authorised to recruit 10,000 citizens aged between 18 and 25 for 24 months of military service.
The committee selected 5,000 candidates for the first phase.
Lt Gen Socheata said inclusion on the list did not mean official selection as candidates must pass assessments to meet physical and medical standards.
Those whose names appear on the list must report to municipal, provincial or district military police offices to verify information and obtain reporting dates and training centre details.
She said candidates will be distributed among eight military training centres according to their places of residence. Applicants not on the initial list should retain the registration receipt and await further announcements.
The next recruitment phase is expected three months after the first phase begins. Lt Gen Socheata said recruitment will take place in stages based on actual requirements and candidate readiness.
Ngat Sila, an agriculture student, said the initiative offered young people an opportunity to serve the nation, particularly those who have dropped out of school or lack access to higher education.
He said he was interested in fulfilling his military service obligation after finishing his bachelor’s degree.
Men Henglong, from Kampong Cham province, said he had not registered because he was in university. He hoped that those selected would train hard and build bright futures, adding that those with good abilities could take on leadership roles.
Lt Gen Socheata said conscripts will receive theoretical instruction and practical field training for six to eight hours daily while observing strict military discipline.
During the first three months, recruits will remain in closed-camp training and will not be allowed to visit their families until completing this initial period.
She said conscripts should use the 24-month service period to develop capabilities and discipline, thanking parents and families for supporting young people undertaking military service.
Conscripts will receive a monthly allowance of 400,000 riels, daily meals, family allowances, rice provisions, uniforms and equipment.
The ministry has established a communications team to provide accurate information through its official Facebook pages, the committee website at nmsc.gov.kh, and its Telegram, TikTok and YouTube platforms.
