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Cambodia Diary
25-31 March, 2004
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My name is Roun Kun, I am 28 years of age and I live in Prek Loung village, Prek Loung commune, Ek Phnom district in Battambang province, Cambodia. I am single and come first in the family of two children.
My sister and I became orphans and lived with our uncle since 2001 when our parents passed away. From 1986- 1998, we had a difficult time since we were farmers, so I went back to primary school and high school, taking my free time to work as a motor- taxi driver to earn some more income to support my family. Earning 5000 to 10000 Riel equal ($1 to $3) per day could not meet my daily needs. It was a lucky day on May 5, 1998 when I heard that the HALO Trust needed people to work to clear mines. I felt not afraid at all, so I then decided to apply for a job. I passed the interview and was sent to a training center to clear mines. Not long after the course was over and I was sent to work in Sameakki minefield.
I have been employed by the HALO Trust for 7 years. My standard of living has been improved and my families are now living happily. I can earn enough money to support my family and help my sister to be a grocery seller and my uncle to be a barber. Compared to what my living standard was prior working for HALO, life does change positively and I am really thankful and grateful to both The HALO Trust and the donors especially AARTBS.
It is the last week of March, and I have been working in Chamkar Kor Pond 1 minefield. The weather is very hot during this dry season. I am glad that I had the chance to clear mines because it is a crucial job that could help to save lives and lessen tragic casualties in my nation. This week I found 1 anti personnel mine with type MBV78A1. During my 7 - year service with The HALO Trust, I have found 60 anti- personnel mines of different types.
I am committed to performing my work with the utmost effort, and to comply with HALO rules for the sakes of my family as well as for the Cambodian people who are living under the threat of mines so that their standard of living can be improved. To conclude, I would like to express my gratitude to the HALO Trust and donors for their great and invaluable support for the mineclearance programme in Cambodia.
Regards,
Roun Kun
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