While similar criminal activities occur in Myanmar and Laos, the scale in Cambodia has reached a level that should be regarded as alarming for both the regional and international communities.

Admittedly, punishing Cambodia in isolation without offering a meaningful incentive may be futile, and international collaboration would allow for a more effective carrot-and-stick approach. However, we must also confront the reality of a corrupt mindset among law enforcement across the region, not just within Cambodia.

Indonesia must take a leading role in organizing international cooperation to combat these crimes as an increasing number of our citizens fall prey to criminal syndicates involved in cyber scams. Thousands of Indonesians have been trafficked and forced into labor to target victims within our borders. Furthermore, millions of Indonesians have been victimized by online gambling operations based in Cambodia.

Last April, President Xi raised these concerns during a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh, diplomatically warning of the dangers posed by scam centers.

Many Chinese people have become victims of online gambling, even as their compatriots join gangs that serve as the architects and owners of these illicit operations.

Beijing has grown increasingly impatient with Phnom Penh’s sluggish response. Millions of Chinese citizens have been cheated as thousands are kidnapped and forced to serve these criminal organizations. While China has executed many perpetrators, the threat has not deterred cyber scam groups.