Officials from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training conducted a March 3 inspection of a Kandal province garment factory, after reports that at least 19 workers passed out at around 3pm the same day.
Ministry spokesperson Sun Mesa said officers from the Department of Occupational Health and Safety, along with Kandal provincial officials and other relevant specialists, visited the facility, located on National Road 6 in Kandal village, Prek Anhchanh commune, Mukh Kampoul district, immediately after receiving the reports.
The affected workers were transported to the Mukh Kampoul Referral Hospital and Kuwait Hospital for treatment. The officials interviewed representatives the factory, which manufactures bags, belts and related accessories.
The labour ministry announced that it will release detailed findings once the investigation is complete, highlighting that their prompt inspection reflects the ministry’s concern for worker safety and well-being.
The incident follows a separate case on February 27, involving 21 workers at Cambo Unisoll LTD in Khsach Kandal district, Kandal province, where workers fainted and one worker died.
Authorities reported that the deceased worker suffered from high blood pressure, which caused a brain haemorrhage after she received news about a traffic accident involving a colleague. The ministry noted that some social media users exploited the worker’s death for personal gain.
The labour ministry noted that the leaders of several large unions have urged social media users and the public not to misuse the tragic case for personal or political purposes, in order to prevent public misunderstanding.
Sam Soeun, president of the National Labour Confederation (NLC), observed that some social media users have commented inaccurately on the incident to attract attention, despite lacking verified information. He stressed that spreading false information disrespects the deceased and unfairly exploits the tragedy.
The victim’s family, he said, is being supported by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), in accordance with legal provisions.
Far Saly, president of the National Trade Unions Coalition (NTUC), described social media speculation surrounding the case as “unreasonable and unacceptable”, saying it has negatively impacted the labour sector and caused fear among factory workers nationwide.
He rejected claims circulating online that the worker died due to overwork, lack of leave, electric shock or forced labour conditions, calling such statements false and misleading.
“These claims suggest that our country has no labour ministry, no unions and no professional authorities carrying out their duties. Such comments are unacceptable and go beyond the facts,” he said.
