The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training has provided health equity fund cards to members of the Association for the Support of Entertainment Sector and Informal Economy in Cambodia (ASEC) to promote the honour and dignity of entrepreneurs and workers working in this field.
The handover ceremony was held at the ministry on May 20 in the presence of numerous representatives of the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration, as well about 400 ASEC members.
Minister Ith Samheng, who presided over the ceremony, noted that the government has striven to protect the rights and benefits of workers in the informal economy and provide them with social protection.
“We have long paid close attention to protecting the honour and dignity of the entrepreneurs and workers of the informal economy by facilitating a supportive business environment,” he said.
Some of the measurable support available to informal workers includes the provision of health equity fund cards, vocational training, recognition of competency through a formal assessment system, pension contributions and allowances for pregnant women and new mothers, he explained.
ASEC president Luos Seyha described his organisation as non-governmental association, non-profit, non-political, non-racial and non-religious.
“The association was established to work with the government to protect the labour rights and legitimate interests of people engaged in the entertainment and informal economy in Cambodia, while also promoting their dignity,” he explained.
Health equity fund cards differ from National Social Security Fund (NSSF) membership cards.
The health equity fund is a social health protection financing mechanism that enables certain target groups to access free healthcare services at public health facilities. The state is responsible for paying the fees.
These health services include preventive services as well as treatment like consultations or hospitalisation. The fund also covers referral charges and provides a funeral allowance for fatal illnesses.
