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Angkor Authority Denies Thai Media Report on Traditional Khmer Attire Regulations
Cambodia's Apsara Authority has refuted a report by Thai media outlet Khaosod, which claimed a ban on traditional Khmer attire at the Angkor temples. The authority clarified that the initiative is educational, aiming to prevent the sale of low-quality goods and inaccurate traditional costumes, and to promote respect for cultural heritage.
The Apsara Authority has strongly refuted a report by Thai media outlet Khaosod, stating that it deviates from the truth regarding the regulations on wearing traditional Khmer attire within the Angkor temple complex. In an article published on Friday, July 17, Khaosod reported under the headline "Angkor Wat bans the wearing of inaccurate traditional Khmer costumes," claiming that this prohibition was based on a new law preventing those with inaccurately depicted traditional attire from entering the temples. The Apsara Authority clarified in its statement that such reporting deviates from the facts, content, and original purpose. The authority emphasized that its true objective is not prohibition, but rather to educate and guide vendors in the vicinity of the temples against selling low-quality products, excessively priced items, or inaccurate traditional costumes. It further stated that dressing appropriately, whether in modern or traditional attire, demonstrates respect for ancestors and national heritage. "The protection of Khmer culture is an endless, shared duty that requires inter-institutional cooperation between state institutions (police, relevant ministries) and the private sector," the Apsara Authority declared. Since 2016, the authority has implemented the "Angkor Code of Conduct" to guide appropriate dress and ensure the safety of tourists within the Angkor site. Traditional Khmer attire possesses distinct identity and characteristics, with research documents available from the Ministry of Culture, the National Museum, the Museum of Asian Traditional Textiles, and the official websites and Facebook pages of the Ministry of Culture and the Apsara Authority. The promotion and guidance on attire and visits to the Angkor resort aim to preserve original values, enhance national pride, and show respect for the sacred site. Furthermore, on July 13, Apsara Authority officials, in collaboration with the Siem Reap Provincial Department of Culture and Arts, met with businesses providing rental services for traditional Khmer costumes to tourists in the Angkor resort area. This educational initiative aims to ensure the correct observance of Khmer traditional styles and to cease the use of imported fabrics from Thailand by 2027. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local
Original source
Kampuchea Thmey Local