Southeast Asia Information Port (www.dnyxxg.com) – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet officially signed a government decree on January 5th, promulgating the "Detailed Rules for the Security Management of Collective Residential Areas." This decree aims to strengthen security in collective residential areas through standardized management, maintain social order, and severely crack down on illegal entry and residence.
The "Detailed Rules for the Security Management of Collective Residential Areas" clearly defines the scope of "collective residential areas," encompassing all types of public and private accommodations, including but not limited to residences, apartments, resorts, and hotels; factory dormitories, accommodation facilities within Special Economic Zones (SEZs); and social institutions such as temples, churches, and orphanages.
According to the regulations, all owners or managers of collective residential areas have an immediate reporting obligation: any foreigner temporarily residing in must be registered and reported to the relevant commune, district, or competent police authority within 24 hours.
The "Detailed Rules for the Security Management of Collective Residential Areas" emphasizes that owners or managers must strictly verify and retain the legal residency documents of foreigners before allowing them to move in. Owners or managers who intentionally harbor illegally entered foreigners will be fined 4 million riel (approximately US$1,000) per foreigner. Those with serious offenses will face legal prosecution and related criminal charges.
To enhance community safety and early warning capabilities, the "Detailed Rules for the Security Management of Collective Residential Areas" require collective residential areas to have comprehensive technical security measures, including the installation and maintenance of security cameras (CCTV). Surveillance data must be retained for at least 90 days for review by the competent authorities. A complete fire protection system and related security equipment must be provided. The police chiefs of each capital city, province, and city are responsible for coordinating the implementation of security plans within their jurisdictions and have the right to request the cooperation of relevant private security agencies to promptly report suspicious activities.
The "Detailed Rules for the Security Management of Collective Residential Areas" establish a strict accountability mechanism to ensure that management responsibilities are fulfilled. Managers who fail to fulfill their security maintenance obligations will be fined 400,000 riel. Supervising officials who intentionally conceal the illegal residence of foreigners within their jurisdiction will face severe disciplinary action, including dismissal from public office, in addition to legal liability.
The "Detailed Rules for the Safety Management of Collective Residential Areas" are led by the Ministry of the Interior and implemented through a "decentralization of authority" principle, with specific implementation by local administrative units at all levels. By clarifying the division of powers and responsibilities and strengthening law enforcement, the Cambodian government aims to build a robust community safety and prevention network to curb illegal residence at its source and ensure public safety.
