Cambodia Investment Review
Prudential Cambodia has launched its latest community investment initiative, “Community-Led Resilience: The Fight Against Dengue and Malaria,” at the “Building Resilience: Opportunity and Solutions for Climate-Related Health Challenges” Launch Ceremony.
Held at Prudential Cambodia’s headquarters, the event brought together more than 100 leaders and experts across different sectors, including representatives from the Insurance Regulator of Cambodia, the International Business Chamber, and the British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, to discuss the growing health risks posed by climate change, particularly in the country’s most vulnerable provinces.
US$2 million Climate & Health Resilience Fund
The new initiative, supported by Prudence Foundation’s new US$2 million Climate & Health Resilience Fund (CHRF), will run for a period of five months until November 2025. It aims to benefit over 5,000 people in Stung Treng and Ratanakiri provinces, and also strengthen surrounding communities by empowering local groups and task forces to manage natural disaster impacts. This initiative is part of Prudence Foundation’s ongoing climate resilience efforts in Asia and Africa.
A Community-First Approach to Climate-Health Resilience
The programme addresses the rising threat of dengue and malaria in climate-sensitive regions, especially in areas where access to healthcare services remains limited. Key components include:s
- Community-led awareness and prevention campaigns
- Mobile ambulance boats to reach remote villages
- Upskilling of healthcare workers to manage climate-related illnesses
- Empowerment of sub-national taskforces to sustain local resilience efforts
“We commend Prudential Cambodia for taking a proactive role in addressing climate-related health risks,” said H.E Bou Chanphirou, Director General of IRC. “This initiative aligns with our national strategy to expand insurance access and build resilience in underserved communities.”
The event featured insights and presentations from experts on climate- and health-related issues, including:
- “The Respiratory Cost of Climate Change” by s, Vice President, FWA and Medical Management at Prudential Thailand
- “Climate & Diabetes: A Dangerous and Unseen Connection” by Dr. Yat Silong, Endocrinologist, and Lecturer at University of Health Sciences
- “The Evolving Threat: Dengue and Malaria in Cambodia” by Mr. Mak Sarath, Malaria Program Manager II at Catholic Relief Service
Opportunity and Solutions for Climate-Related Health Challenges
The speakers also participated in a panel discussion titled “Opportunity and Solutions for Climate-Related Health Challenges. Moderated by Ms. Pauline Tan, CEO of Sing-Specialist Medical Centre, the panel highlighted emerging health issues brought on by climate change. Some of the health impacts are visibly evident, such as rising malaria cases, while others are more complex to identify. Therefore, further research specifically within the Cambodian context is needed.
“At Prudential, our mission to be the most trusted partner and protector for today’s generations and the generations to come,” said Mr. Tola Ponlu, CEO of Prudential, CLM Hub. “This initiative reflects our commitment to building stronger, healthier communities in the face of a changing climate—by listening to local needs and delivering practical, community-first solutions.”
“Real impact happens when individuals are empowered, informed, and protected,” added Mr. Ponlu. “Through this programme, we’re committed to equipping communities with the right tools and building partnerships for a lasting difference.”
