Stung Treng, Cambodia – On May 30, 2025, ADRA Cambodia’s TOGETHER project, in partnership with the Stung Treng Provincial Health Department and local authorities, hosted a vibrant community event in Thalabarivat District to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, observed globally on May 31.
Under the global theme “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products,” the event raised awareness of the manipulative strategies used by tobacco and nicotine industries—especially those targeting young people through colorful packaging, sweet flavors, and misleading advertising.
A total of 258 participants (107 women and 151 men) from 8 villages across 4 communes took part in the day-long campaign. The goal: to expose the hidden dangers of tobacco and nicotine and inspire action to protect youth and future generations.
“Tobacco use remains a critical public health challenge. Today’s event is a call to action—especially for our youth—to see through the deceptive marketing and choose health over addiction,” said Mr. Roth Rumnea, Senior Project Manager of the TOGETHER project.
During the event, Mr. Rumnea also highlighted key findings from TOGETHER’s Year 4 Gender Analysis and Community Survey, drawing attention to urgent issues such as early marriage and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). These findings served as a reminder that tobacco prevention is interconnected with broader gender and health rights.
“This day isn’t just about saying no to tobacco—it’s about saying yes to the rights and dignity of women and girls, and building healthier, more empowered communities,” he added.
Mr. Thay Y, Deputy District Governor of Thalabarivat, expressed appreciation for the joint effort with ADRA Cambodia.
“This event is a powerful platform to bring life-saving messages to the people of Thalabarivat. I urge all generations—young and old—to stop smoking and chewing tobacco for the sake of their families and communities,” he said.
Adding an artistic touch to the event, students from Thalabarivat Middle School performed a song and drama emphasizing the risks of secondhand smoke, especially its effects on babies and young children. Their creative performance underscored the importance of collective responsibility in protecting the most vulnerable.
H.E. Ung Soviet, Advisor to the Ministry of Health and Director of the Stung Treng Provincial Health Department, also addressed participants.
“I am pleased to support this important campaign and to see strong collaboration with ADRA’s TOGETHER project. The government prohibits smoking in public places and workspaces, and we call on everyone—especially youth—to stay away from tobacco and nicotine products,” he said.
He further encouraged continued joint efforts to expand awareness activities to even the most remote villages in the province.
“Let us bring these vital messages to every corner of Stung Treng. Together, we can build a healthier future,” he concluded.
Media Coverage
📺 Local TV coverage in Stung Treng: Watch Here
About the TOGETHER Project
ADRA Cambodia is implementing the “uniting TOwards Gender Equality for enjoyment of women’s and girls’ Total HEalth and Rights” (TOGETHER) project with generous funding from the Government of Canada. Supported by ADRA Canada, SickKids, and Salanga, this six-year gender-transformative initiative aims to empower nearly 200,000 girls, women, boys, and men across Cambodia, Kenya, the Philippines, and Uganda to fully exercise their health-related human rights.
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Kong Phano – Public Relations Coordinator
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