The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training announced cash assistance in the 64th phase of its relief package for 3,953 suspended workers from 45 factories and enterprises in the garment and tourist sectors.

In a notice on July 29, the ministry said electronic payment service provider Wing will send a notification to the phone numbers of workers that are properly registered with their employers.

The notice added that the cash handouts will be paid in riel and based on the duration of the worker’s suspension. Those laid-off from seven to 10 days will receive 60,750 riel ($15), while those who have been suspended for 11-20 days and 21-30 days will receive $30 and $40 in riel, respectively.

The ministry noted that Wing will transfer this cash assistance back to the government if workers fail to pick it up within 10 days of receiving notification from the bank.

“To receive this cash assistance, workers have to bring their Khmer national identification cards and their phones to any Wing agent. There is no service charge,” the ministry said.

The ministry added that if a worker who believes they are eligible for cash assistance does not get any message from Wing, they can contact their factory management for more information or to update their phone numbers.

Ho Vandy, an adviser to the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents, told The Post on July 29 that the provision of cash to the 3,953 workers from these 45 factories and enterprises was an encouraging sign that gave hope to both employees and their employers.

“Not only are the workers happy with this cash provision, but their employers are also happy. Although this assistance is small, the impact for these suspended workers is very big so it can assist them during this difficult time,” he said.

Vandy suggested that the government help suspended workers with cash assistance until the pandemic is over and the situation returns to normal.