KUALA LUMPUR - Japan has announced funding of more than USD140,000 to support the construction of a shelter for women victims of human trafficking and staff accommodation at the Kandal Steung Transit and Rehabilitation Center.

A grant agreement worth USD140,781 was signed by Japanese Ambassador Ueno Atsushi and Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation Chea Somethy under Japan’s Kusanone Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects on December 16.

The Japanese Embassy said the funding will be used to build a new shelter for trafficking victims and accommodation for staff working at the centre.

The new facilities are expected to improve safety for victims and allow staff to provide better care and support services.

“This project will help support victims in various vulnerable conditions, both physical and psychological, so they can return to their normal daily lives,” said Ueno.

The ambassador said Japan welcomed Cambodia’s rapid development in recent years but noted that challenges remain in improving the quality of life for the people.

He added that Japan will continue to help Cambodia address these challenges through various Official Development Assistance programmes, including the Kusanone initiative.

The Kusanone programme was launched in Cambodia in 1991 to support grassroots development and national reconstruction efforts.

The programme aims to protect vulnerable communities from poverty and other hardships that threaten lives, livelihoods and human dignity, while encouraging community self-reliance.