Buddhist Facility Inauguration Ceremony Held in Cambodia's Takeo Province, Emphasizing Peace and Development

An inauguration ceremony for newly completed Buddhist facilities was held at Kirivong Pagoda in Kirivong District, Takeo Province, on September 18, 2026. The ceremony was presided over by His Holiness Somdet Preah Buddhajaymunee, Dr. Khim Son, third deputy chief monk of the Mahānikāya, and deputy director-general of the National Buddhist Education Directorate. Attendees included His Excellency Yos Nasith, President of the Takeo Provincial Council; His Excellency Vey Somnang, Governor of Takeo Province; as well as provincial and district administrators, military officials, monks, and a large number of Buddhist followers, teachers, students, and citizens. During the ceremony, His Excellency Vey Somnang, Governor of Takeo Province, profoundly highlighted the value of peace as a strong foundation that brings development to both the Buddhist and secular realms. He specifically pointed out the full freedom granted to citizens to choose their beliefs and organize religious ceremonies as they wish, without any coercion. Governor Vey Somnang further stated that the Buddhist sector in Cambodia is currently experiencing significant growth, as evidenced by the construction and development of pagodas, sermon halls, and monks' quarters, driven by the devotion of Buddhist followers from all directions. In line with the motto "Nation, Religion, King," the Royal Government of Cambodia has always promoted and considered Buddhism as the state religion. His Excellency noted that Buddhism not only serves as a spiritual refuge, enabling citizens to live together peacefully according to Dharma, but also contributes significantly to strengthening social order, preserving national identity, and developing all sectors. Governor Vey Somnang emphasized that peace and political stability are indispensable fundamental bases for driving national development and improving the living standards of the people. In this regard, he appealed to all citizens to continue to stand firmly behind the Royal Government of Cambodia to jointly protect this peace forever. Source: AKP Khmer