Indonesia Pledges Aid for Cambodia’s Fight Against Transnational Crime

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to assist Cambodia in tackling transnational crime, particularly online scam syndicates that have victimized thousands across the region. The pledge was conveyed by Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia, Santo Darmosumarto, during his farewell meeting with Cambodian Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen in Phnom Penh on Monday, January 26, 2026.

“Transnational crime can only be addressed through intensive cooperation, both bilaterally and regionally,” Ambassador Santo said, according to a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh received in Jakarta on Tuesday, January 27, as quoted by Antara.

The ambassador also expressed appreciation for the Cambodian government’s support in protecting Indonesian citizens, especially in handling the influx of Indonesians arriving in Phnom Penh after escaping from online scam operations in various parts of Cambodia. The embassy previously reported that 2,277 Indonesians had directly sought assistance after leaving such syndicates.

Beyond security cooperation, Ambassador Santo noted that Indonesia-Cambodia relations have strengthened significantly in recent years, particularly in economic ties and people-to-people exchanges. This trend, he added, is reflected in the growing frequency of high-level visits, including Hun Sen’s trip to Jakarta in May 2025.

Hun Sen, for his part, acknowledged that Cambodia’s crackdown on online scam networks has been underway for some time, with more tangible results only emerging recently. He praised Ambassador Santo’s contributions to advancing bilateral relations, describing his role as highly significant in fostering cooperation across multiple sectors.

In recognition of his service, Hun Sen, on behalf of King Norodom Sihamoni, awarded Ambassador Santo the Order of Sahametrej: Maha Maha Sereyvath medal.

The embassy further announced that Ambassador Santo will soon conclude his posting in Phnom Penh and assume a new role as Director General for Asia Pacific and Africa at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ***