As Cambodia joined the world in marking World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, one local organisation is making waves in the fight against the country’s leading killer of children: drowning.
Hile Teuk Kampuchea (HTK) has been steadily working to change the statistics, empowering children, parents and educators with the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe around water. For communities that live near rivers, lakes and flooded fields, these efforts are more than educational — they are lifesaving.
“With the right support, we can ensure no child dies from a preventable cause simply because they were born near water,” said HTK, in a statement released to mark the global day of awareness.
Drowning is a silent epidemic in Cambodia. Each year, hundreds of children — many under the age of five — lose their lives in water-related accidents. Often, the tragedy happens close to home: a pond, a canal a rice paddy. For families without access to swimming lessons or water safety education, the risks are constant.
According to 2023 WHO data for the Western Pacific Region, the drowning mortality rate stands at 4.3 per 100,000 people, higher than the global average of 3.8.
Cambodia’s situation is even more alarming. Drowning is the second leading cause of death among children aged 1–4, with a mortality rate of 7.6 per 100,000. A 2007 Cambodian Accident and Injury Survey identified drowning as the leading cause of death for children aged 1–17, at an estimated rate of 35 per 100,000.
HTK’s approach combines practical swimming instruction with life-saving water survival skills, delivered in collaboration with local schools and community leaders. The programme also supports parents and teachers with essential information to raise awareness and build a culture of prevention.
“At HTK, we believe that water safety is a human right. Our work goes far beyond teaching swimming. Through our dedicated team of Water Safety Heroes, we provide water safety awareness, CPR and rescue skills training, community outreach and school partnerships to integrate water safety into education,” explained Sarath Tek, executive director of HTK.
This year’s World Drowning Prevention Day saw an HTK training session in Siem Reap that drew widespread participation.
During the event, the organisation’s trainers conducted hands-on CPR demonstrations, life jacket fittings and water safety education for both children and adults. Participants left not just more informed, but more empowered.
“To every participant, parent, teacher and local ally who joined us: thank you,” said Sarath.
“Your energy and care fuel our mission. Together, we are building a future where every Cambodian child is safe around water,” she added.
The organisation remains committed to scaling its work across Cambodia and hopes this year’s World Drowning Prevention Day will spark greater national and international support.
Because in HTK’s words: No child should die from a preventable cause.
