PHNOM PENH: Cambodia is negotiating with Malaysia to allow its fishermen and some 200 workers, including prisoners, to return home.
However, they would be required to undergo screening to confirm that they were negative for Covid-19.
Since last month, hundreds of Cambodians were stranded in Malaysia after a travel ban was imposed under the Movement Control Order.
Health Minister Mam Bun Heng said the government had paid great attention to those stranded in Malaysia, saying a letter would be sent to request the return of 73 prisoners and 149 fishermen to Cambodia.
"The most important condition that (Cambodia) asked Malaysia to do is to test them for Covid-19. If a test comes backs negative, that person can come back.
"But for those who carry the virus, they have to be treated there until they recover.
Prime Minister Hun Sen took to Facebook to thank the workers in Malaysia for their patience.
"Please do not worry if you are not infected with Covid-19. You may return to Cambodia soon.
"On the other hand, if Malaysia detects Covid-19 in any of you, it is necessary for you to stay for treatment until you have fully recovered and are allowed to return to Cambodia," he said.
Meanwhile, about 10,000 garment workers who visited their home provinces during the Khmer New Year failed to return to the capital here for fear of being quarantined.
He said about 15,000 workers visited their homes in provinces during the Khmer New Year but only about 5,000 of them returned here.
"Some workers decided not to return after the New Year. It is their right.
"This is the reason why we found 40 per cent of them were absent from work," he said.