Young student enjoyed energy drink at a school campus. Supplied
The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MoEYS) has issued a new directive banning the consumption, distribution, display, and commercialization of all types of energy drink products within and around public and private general education institutions, as well as technical education institutions.
This move is part of the government's ongoing efforts to address public health concerns and safeguard the well-being of students.
“The decisionon December10 follows a series of earlier directives aimed at improving health, hygiene, and food safety in schools,” according the MoEYS’s directive.
However, the Ministry observed that the implementation of these measures had not been fully effective, prompting this new ban.
“The action is also aligned with the recommendations made by Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, who has emphasized the importance of prioritizing student health and reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, which are linked to the consumption of sugary foods, sweetened beverages, and energy drinks,” said the directive.
(MoEYS) has issued a directive requiring all education departments across Cambodia to enforce a ban on energy drinks in and around schools.
Educational institutions must prohibit the consumption, distribution, display, and advertising of energy drinks on their premises.
Schools are also tasked with enforcing food safety regulations and integrating the ban into their internal codes of conduct.
Students buying food outside a primary school in Prek Leap commune of the capital’s Chroy Changvar district in 2021. Post staff
The directive mandates health education campaigns to inform students about the dangers of energy drinks, including through flag-raising ceremonies and meetings.
Additionally, schools are encouraged to engage students and staff in creating health awareness messages.
The Ministry will monitor compliance, with corrective actions including product removal and contract termination.
The ultimate goal is to create "energy drink-free" educational institutions, with collaboration from authorities at all levels to ensure effective implementation.
The move is part of a broader national strategy to curb the rising incidence of NCDs, which are becoming a major public health concern in Cambodia.
On November 27, 2024, Or Vandine, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Health, presided over a Health Education Dissemination Workshop that focused on addressing the risks of NCDs, including those related to unhealthy diets and alcohol consumption.
During her speech, Vandine highlighted the need for greater public health education and the importance of reducing the consumption of foods high in sugar, fat, and salt.
"The promotion of healthier eating habits and regular physical activity is essential to combat the growing prevalence of NCDs," Or Vandine said.
"We must also work to reduce the consumption of alcohol and promote policies that create supportive environments for better health."
