Wing partners with Oxfam to support vulnerable workers and labor representatives during the COVID-19 pandemic

Roughly 3,000 vulnerable workers and representatives have accessed funds through Wing’s financial system

As of today, hundreds of Cambodian families have gained access to vital relief funds after Wing (Cambodia) Limited Specialised Bank opened its network to Oxfam Cambodia and its partners to help provide immediate aid to workers affected by the economic downturn of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In September, Oxfam partnered with Wing to transfer cash to approximately 3,000 vulnerable workers and other community members, including local leaders and labor representatives. Oxfam also distributed Covid-19 prevention kits to 1,000 members of its own network of partner organizations.

Mr. Manu Rajan, Wing CEO, said the specialized bank’s initiative with Oxfam was part of Wing’s ongoing efforts to help Cambodian families make ends meet during these trying times.

“As a responsible corporate citizen, it’s necessary that we go above and beyond to give our support to our people” Manu said. “Wing is ready and willing to join with partners and communities to protect Cambodian people through these challenging times”

Considering the unprecedented Covid-19 situation, Wing has launched various initiatives focused on helping those who have lost their sources of income. This has included a fundraising to support tuktuk drivers and tour guides, as well as the Angkor Hospital for Children, which provides treatment to its young patients free of charge. In March, Wing opened free Wing-to-Wing fund transfers to all its customers in Cambodia, allowing them to use the Wing Money App to send money to loved ones from the safety of home.

“Along with various responses from the government, private sector and individuals to support workers during the difficult time, Oxfam and partners believe that our immediate support to worker’s representatives is equally important,” said Ms. Solinn Lim, Oxfam Country Director. “Today’s event has reflected our solidarity with partners from different associations, unions, NGOs, institutional donors, the government and private sector working together to support the most vulnerable populations in Cambodia. Together with relevant parties we are working to promote more inclusive social protection programs for vulnerable workers, especially women and children, to reduce their vulnerability and increase resilience during the current and future crises.’’

Oxfam has supported Cambodia’s people since 1979 with a focus on development, gender equality, and natural resource governance.

Given the wide effects of the pandemic, Wing is extending its financial services to many partners helping the public. Beyond Oxfam, this has included government agencies and non-governmental organizations. Since May, Wing has extended its support to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training to disburse financial support to workers suspended from the garment manufacturing and tourism sectors. And from June on, the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation has used Wing financial services to disburse a monthly allowance to people who are vulnerable or living in poverty.