The leadership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has committed to joining the Cambodian government in improving the Kingdom’s health sector, by constructing a specialised cardiology clinic in Siem Reap province.

Elder Dale G Renlund, a senior leader of the LDS Church, met with Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace palace on January 22 to discuss the project.

During the meeting, Renlund briefed the prime minister on the church’s activities, noting that it focused on humanitarian work and has worked with the government in developing education, healthcare and access to clean drinking water at the grass roots level. 

“We are planning to establish a cardiology clinic in Siem Reap province to help treat and improve the wellbeing of the Cambodian people. By doing so, we are demonstrating the church’s commitment to continuing to improve and support the health sector and training for the local population,” he said.

Manet thanked the church for the many projects it has undertaken in the Kingdom, noting that they have brought many benefits to the Cambodian people, particularly in the health sector.

He also highlighted how the Cambodian government guarantees religious freedom and harmony in society. 

“Cambodia experienced a bitter period of time under the Democratic Kampuchea regime of Pol Pot. At that time, the Khmer Rouge genocidal regime completely purged religious faith,” he said. 

He explained that owing to this bitter experience, the previous and current governments pay close attention to maintaining religious harmony, recognising it as an important foundation for maintaining peace and stability in Cambodia.

Koy Vanny, Ministry of Health spokesperson, said a proposal for the cardiology unit was submitted about one year ago by the director of the Siem Reap provincial health department.

The LDS Church has agreed to support the clinic, although he added that specific details were not yet available.