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A new heart center is set to transform cardiac care in northwestern Cambodia, thanks to a significant donation from The Association of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Elder Benjamin M.Z. Tai, president of the Church’s Asia Area, described the gift as "a donation from our hearts to your hearts" during the groundbreaking ceremony on February 13, 2025.
The Siem Reap Referral Hospital will benefit from this contribution, which officials say will save lives and assist thousands of Cambodians with heart disease. His Excellency Dy Rado, deputy governor of Siem Reap Province, expressed gratitude for the Church's contribution and highlighted its impact on strengthening the provincial hospital. He noted that the hospital also serves tourists visiting nearby attractions such as Angkor Wat.
Elder Tai emphasized that the heart center was made possible through small charitable contributions by ordinary Church members worldwide. “Our members will be happy to know that their contributions are going to such a great cause,” he stated.
The project has been under consideration for several years due to a recognized need for a heart center outside Phnom Penh. In January 2024, Elder Dale G. Renlund announced plans for this facility at Siem Reap Referral Hospital. Since then, approvals have been secured and construction consultants selected. This is noted as the largest humanitarian project by the Church in Cambodia.
The new facility will feature Cambodia's first state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization laboratory outside Phnom Penh. This advancement will enable local treatment for patients who currently must travel long distances for care—a journey many do not survive during emergencies.
Dr. Chen Narong, a cardiologist involved in training at the new lab, stated: “This project will save many lives.” He explained how they would diagnose and treat various heart issues using advanced catheterization techniques.
Construction involves building above an existing structure and includes donating all necessary specialized equipment for cardiac procedures. Elder Tai shared his personal connection to the project as a former heart patient himself: “We welcome this opportunity to give back... We believe we show we love God by loving and serving our neighbors.”
Dr. Pen Phalkun, director of Siem Reap Referral Hospital, highlighted that they serve numerous patients annually with complex health problems not treatable locally until now. He extended thanks on behalf of all associated with the hospital to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their generous support.
