LOLC, one of the leading microfinance institutions in Cambodia, has received a Certificate of Appreciation from the National Authority for Combating Drugs (NACD). The certificate was presented in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, His Excellency Sar Sokha.
“I would like to commend the leadership and staff of LOLC (Cambodia) Plc for their outstanding achievements and active participation in the fight against drugs in 2024,” said the certificate of Appreciation.
The award was presented during a Royal Government of Cambodia meeting to mark the launch of the Kingdom’s 10th Anti-Drug Campaign. Also in attendance was His Excellency Deputy Prime Minister and NACD President Neth Savoeun.
According to the NACD, almost 15 tonnes of narcotics were seized by Cambodian authorities in 2024, a fourfold increase over 2023.
His Excellency Meas Vyrith, Secretary-General of the national authority, shared the figures during the authority’s March 12 annual meeting.
Despite the promising results of last year, Vyrith warned that Cambodia continues to face the threat of global drug trafficking, especially from the “golden triangle” region.
He noted that in 2024, law enforcement handled 10,630 drug-related cases, an increase of 2,567, or 31.84 percent, over the previous year.
LOLC has been a consistent supporter of the NACD’s anti-drug campaigns.
It has distributed leaflets, stickers and drug awareness materials, and shared poster exhibitions, warning banners, and booklets which outline the dangers of drug use throughout the communities where it works.
In addition, it has handed out souvenirs such as hats, calendars, umbrellas, glasses, hand fans and more. They have been dispensed to households, families, friends and loved ones to help prevent them from falling into the relentless cycle of drug abuse.
This Certificate of Appreciation reflects that LOLC is not only a microfinance institution providing financial solutions to meet the needs of the Cambodian people, but also a company that is dedicated to addressing social issues, including the well-being of the community.
NACD President His Excellency Neth Savoeun warned of the dangers that drug use poses to wider society, as well as individuals and their families.
He reiterated that the drug problem has become a global issue, not just for Cambodia, but for all nations.
“In line with global security challenges, criminal groups have exploited opportunities to increase their activities in the production, distribution, and trafficking of drugs, particularly in the Golden Triangle and other border regions,” he said.
“The Royal Government of Cambodia remains firmly committed to addressing drug problems as a top priority, through comprehensive policies, strategies and methods to tackle the challenges and safeguard Cambodia as a clean society, free from the barriers that drugs pose to national development,” he explained.
As a socially responsible microfinance institution, LOLC is committed to continuing its collaboration with the NACD, and will continue to play an active role in disseminating educational materials and eliminating drug use.
The company recognises the dangers posed by illegal narcotics, which harm personal health and negatively impacts families and society as a whole. It remains steadfast in its dedication to ensuring a drug-free future for the Kingdom and its people.
