The model who was subjected to insults and the host who spoke disrespectfully about women. Supplied
Prime Minister Hun Manet and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha have spoken out against derogatory remarks targeting women, following public outrage over comments by a Kun Khmer TV show host’s offensive comments about women’s dignity.
The controversy comes just days before International Women’s Day, March 8.
“Natural law has created human society with distinct genders, even though some may have characteristics that differ from their birth gender. Everyone has equal rights, freedoms, and dignity in society,” said Sokha, via social media.
“In Cambodia, we have strong laws and traditions to protect individual dignity,” he added.
He warned that any actions exceeding the boundaries of rights and violating societal traditions or morality would inevitably face public backlash.
Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra and a letter of apology to a Poipet woman who was insulted by commentator Pheng Vannak. Supplied
Prime Minister Hun Manet echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of respect in public discourse.
“Whether intentional or unintentional, the use of such words has seriously affected the feelings and dignity of others,” he said.
“I urge all Cambodians, especially young people, to interact with mutual respect and uphold the morals and dignity that define our society,” he added.
Public backlash and apology
The controversy erupted after a March 1 video surfaced on social media showing television host MC Vutha making offensive remarks about model Chheung Chanmony Raksmey.
Raksmey responded to Vutha’s subsequent apology video, stating that it was incomplete and lacked sincerity.
“The public harassment and the video apology, meant to acknowledge the mistakes of a host I barely know, still feel insufficient,” she said.
She added that Vutha failed to issue a broader apology addressing the use of derogatory language against women and girls.
“I am speaking up not just for myself but to ensure such actions do not continue against others,” she said.
“Can those who have mothers, wives, sisters, and girlfriends still not understand the value of women? Is it right for women to be defined by different perspectives as weak or merely as objects of admiration?” she added.
Government action
Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra confirmed that a joint task force from the Ministry of Information and the Ministry of Women’s Affairs summoned MC Vutha on March 4.
“MC Vutha expressed his regret and publicly apologised to Chanmony Raksmey and all women, as well as other members of the public, for his inconsiderate words that undermined women’s dignity,” said Pheaktra, via social media.
Additionally, he addressed a separate case involving commentator Pheng Vannak, who used derogatory language against a woman who had complained about a $40 sewage fee in Poipet.
The minister emphasised that such violations would be met with legal measures.
“From now on, any violation of the law will be handled with the same level of enforcement,” he affirmed.
