Bangkok: Most Cambodian workers in Soi Khip Mu express a desire to continue working in Thailand despite a recent call by Samdech Hun Sen for them to return to Cambodia. The workers cite better income opportunities in Thailand as the primary reason for their reluctance to leave. While some workers express a longing for their families, economic factors heavily influence their decision to remain.
According to Thai News Agency, early morning activities in Soi Khip Mu, located on Suea Khlong Nueng Road in Bangkok's Khlong Sam Wa District, revealed a consistent pattern among Cambodian workers. Mr. Niam, a construction worker from Battambang Province, shared his perspective, highlighting the lack of viable employment opportunities in Cambodia. He has been legally working in Thailand for over 18 years and prefers to stay unless compelled to return.
Similarly, Ms. Na, a vegetable seller from Kampong Province, emphasized the economic challenges faced by her family back home. Having resided in Thailand for eight years, she expressed her intention to continue working there, as returning to Cambodia would make it difficult to sustain her livelihood.
Ms. Liam, originally from Siem Reap Province and working in Thailand for the past 2-3 years, mentioned her emotional ties to her family in Cambodia. However, she acknowledged the financial benefits of staying in Thailand, where she can save money and send home a monthly income of 10,000-15,000 baht.
Meanwhile, Mr. Chiam, who has lived in Thailand for 12 years, also expressed no intention of returning to Cambodia due to limited opportunities back home. He emphasized his wish to extend his stay in Thailand, where he finds more stable employment.
The sentiment among these workers underscores the significant role that economic factors play in their decision-making processes, even in the face of calls to return to their homeland.