Tens of thousands of high school students nationwide began their final examinations on Monday amid heightened restrictions and security measures, including student screenings and the deployment of security forces.

Schools were cordoned off in Phnom Penh and students were patted down for cheat sheets as relatives looked on and police and military police watched. Some shops around test sites were also ordered to close.

Authorities have said the measures aim to crackdown on bribery and cheating.

Students start their final exams in Cambodia. Kiripost/Siv Channa

Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron (right) opened the first test envelope for students at Sisowath High School in Phnom Penh. Kiripost Siv Channa

Prime Minister Hun Sen’s Hun Many and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron opened the first test envelope early on Monday for students at Sisowath High School.

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Education minister called on all candidates to respect the rules of exams. Kiripost/Siv Channa

The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports has called on all candidates to respect the rules of exams, especially not to hide cheat sheets and equipment, such as mobile phones and other electronics.

A relative comforts a student after exam, December 5, 2022. Kiripost/Siv Channa

If a student is caught, they will automatically be disqualified, the ministry warned, adding that a total of 128,134 candidates have registered to take part in the examinations nationwide.

Some shops around school test sites were also ordered to close. Kiripost/Siv Channa

Students had their belonging checked before exam, December 5, 2022. Kiripost/Siv Channa

Police patrol examination center in Phnom Penh, December 5, 2022. Kiripost/Siv Channa