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Phnom Penh—Cambodia stands on the brink of a historic achievement: the complete eradication of malaria. This milestone comes after decades of relentless efforts by scientists, public health officials, and community volunteers, with one man—Yeang Chheang—playing a crucial role in the fight.
A Lifelong Battle Against Malaria
Yeang Chheang, an 87-year-old Cambodian scientist, has dedicated his life to combating malaria, even amid the horrors of the Khmer Rouge era. His personal losses—including the deaths of his wife and baby in a forced labor camp—did not deter him from his mission. From the 1960s to today, his work in mosquito research, treatment, and malaria control has been instrumental in bringing Cambodia to the verge of victory over the disease.
A Remarkable Turnaround
Cambodia has made dramatic progress in its malaria eradication efforts. In 1997, the country reported 170,000 cases and 865 deaths. By last year, the numbers had plummeted to just 355 cases, with no fatalities recorded since 2018. The government hopes to record zero cases this year, an outcome that would put Cambodia on track for official malaria-free certification by the World Health Organization (WHO) by 2029.
Challenges and Community Efforts
Despite this success, challenges remain. Cambodia’s last pockets of malaria are found in remote, forested regions, particularly in the northeast. Local volunteers like Nhoun Niyok in Mondulkiri province have played a key role in diagnosing cases, distributing medication, and promoting the use of insecticide-treated nets.
Huy Rekol, director of the National Center for Parasitology, Entomology, and Malaria Control, is optimistic. “This year, we are entering the last inch, not the last mile anymore,” he stated, reflecting on Cambodia’s near-total victory over the disease.
A Global Perspective
Malaria remains a global threat, with the WHO reporting 263 million cases and nearly 600,000 deaths worldwide in 2023. While Cambodia’s success serves as a beacon of hope, Yeang Chheang remains cautious about global eradication. “It will be around,” he says. “I believe it won’t be totally eliminated.”
Looking Ahead
If Cambodia achieves and sustains zero malaria cases, it will become only the second country in continental Asia—after China—to be certified malaria-free. The country’s success could inspire other nations battling the disease.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available reports and expert statements. While Cambodia’s progress is promising, challenges such as climate change, migration, and funding uncertainties may impact future efforts.
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