Rising disability rate among members of NSSF calls for action

In the first half of this year, over 2,000 members of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), including more than 1,000 women, suffered disabling injuries. According to the NSSF’s rehabilitation division report, these members are currently receiving support from the organisation.

The report further states that during this period, a total of 2,585 NSSF members endured a disability. Among these, 2,561 were employed by private companies, while 24 were public sector employees.

Tola Moeun, executive director of the Centre for Alliance of Labour and Human Rights (CENTRAL), observed that a majority of the injured NSSF members who became disabled were garment factory workers, given their frequent travel requirements.

“The lorries used to transport these workers often fail to meet road safety standards, leading to an ongoing rise in traffic accident-related injuries among workers,” he said.

“The data from the report underscores the high rate of traffic accidents leading to disability and even death. I believe it is incumbent on the government to find ways to reduce these accidents, possibly through stronger traffic law enforcement,” he said.

Reducing the rate of disability among NSSF members could have a significant impact on the national budget, potentially boosting the economy.

On June 29, NSSF conducted mental health education for injured and disabled members in the provinces of Kampong Cham and Tbong Khmum, aiming to inspire hope in their lives.

Rath Raninn, deputy director of the NSSF’s rehabilitation division, highlighted the crucial role of mental health in overall wellbeing, particularly for those with disabilities. She emphasised that enhancing mental health is a key strategy in promoting better physical health and mental resilience.

“Education and mental healthcare for people with disabilities is essential to help them regain a better understanding of themselves, which in turn can facilitate their reintegration into society with renewed hope despite their disabilities,” she said.