Southeast Asia Information Port News (www.dnyxxg.com) To ensure social stability, public order, and the safety of citizens and their property during the 2026 Chinese New Year and Vietnamese New Year, the Phnom Penh Municipal Government officially issued a special directive on February 11th, outlining the security management arrangements for the festival period from February 16th to 19th.
The directive requires all levels of government agencies, enterprises, public institutions, social organizations, and all citizens to strictly prohibit all kinds of unauthorized celebrations during the festival: The setting off of fireworks and firecrackers and other dangerous items that may produce explosive noise is strictly prohibited; all forms of gambling are completely prohibited; and religious or traditional processions may not be organized in public places without government approval.
Fire safety is a core focus of this festival's supervision. The municipal government urges citizens to be vigilant when conducting traditional sacrificial activities, and to assign someone to supervise the use of stoves, electrical appliances, or the burning of incense and candles; incense and joss paper should be burned in metal or ceramic containers; burning incense and joss paper on sidewalks and public roads is strictly prohibited to ensure the safety and unobstructed flow of public spaces. To curb the flow of contraband at its source, the Phnom Penh Municipal Government has instructed all relevant departments to implement strict control measures effective immediately to prevent the influx of fireworks, firecrackers, and other explosive materials through Phnom Penh's border crossings. Simultaneously, relevant departments will conduct special inspections of markets and commercial outlets throughout the city, confiscating contraband in accordance with the law.
Currently, the 14 district governments, police stations, gendarmerie, and special military command units of Phnom Penh have been placed on standby, deploying specialized forces to strengthen patrols and control. The Phnom Penh Municipal Religious Affairs Department will work closely with Chinese and Vietnamese community groups to ensure the effective dissemination and implementation of this notice.
The Phnom Penh Municipal Government emphasizes that any individual or organization that violates this notice, disrupts social order, or endangers public safety will be severely punished by law enforcement agencies in accordance with current laws and regulations.
