Prime Minister Hun Manet Celebrates 3rd Anniversary of Koh Ker Temple's UNESCO World Heritage Status

Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia has issued a message celebrating the 3rd anniversary of the inscription of the Koh Ker temple complex on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Prime Minister stated that this inscription enhances Cambodia's international cultural prestige and is a testament to peace and the continuous efforts of the Cambodian people. Prime Minister Hun Manet referenced the decision made on September 17, 2023, at the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Saudi Arabia, which officially inscribed the Koh Ker site. He described the complex as a reflection of the glory of the Angkorian era, rich with temples, statues, inscriptions, urban planning, and ancient hydraulic systems. The Prime Minister expressed his sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the Preah Vihear National Authority, national and international experts, international partners, and all relevant stakeholders for their dedication. He acknowledged the significant progress made over the past three years, including the preservation and restoration of temples such as Prasat Balang, Prasat Pram, Prasat Krabau, Prasat Kauk Rung, and Prasat Krap, as well as extensive archaeological, ethnographic, architectural, and ecological research. He further urged the Preah Vihear Provincial Authorities and the Preah Vihear National Authority to diligently fulfill their mission of managing and protecting the temples, ancient sites, traditions, customs, population, land, forests, and wildlife in accordance with the operational guidelines of the World Heritage Committee. The Prime Minister emphasized that all citizens are equal co-owners of the cultural and natural heritage and share the responsibility to help preserve, protect, and enhance the value of the Koh Ker temple complex. This, he noted, will contribute to the development and improvement of the people's livelihoods and strengthen Cambodia's national identity on the international stage. Furthermore, Prime Minister Hun Manet called upon all media networks to cooperate in widely publicizing this event. The aim is to celebrate the 3rd anniversary of Koh Ker's inscription as a World Heritage site and to continue promoting the tourism potential of the region, linking it with other World Heritage sites such as Sambor Prei Kuk, Angkor, Preah Vihear, and other cultural and natural tourist destinations. Source: CEN Cambodia