Cambodia as 'Owner of Culture' Emphasizes Legacy and Responsibility, Says Information Minister

Cambodian Minister of Information Net Pheaktra announced on the morning of September 22 that Cambodia is not just a land with abundant ancient temples and heritage but is the 'owner' of Khmer culture and civilization. This carries a deeper meaning, signifying that Khmer people are inheritors of their ancestors' legacy and bear the responsibility to preserve, develop, and pass it on to future generations. According to the minister, Cambodian culture, encompassing language, literature, religion, arts, architecture, music, dance, customs, and the way of life of its people, all demonstrate the identity and creativity of the Khmer nation. Testimonies of Khmer civilization are found throughout the country, with structures like Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear Temple, Sambor Prei Kuk, ancient inscriptions, and countless artistic works demonstrating that ancient Khmer ancestors possessed high knowledge in architecture, engineering, hydraulic systems, astronomy, arts, and social organization. However, Khmer civilization does not reside solely within temple stones. It lives on in the Khmer language, Khmer script, Royal Ballet, Khon Lakhon Khol, Chapei Dang Veng, Kun Lbokator, storytelling, traditional festivals, and the daily customs of the Cambodian people. This is evidence that Cambodian culture is not a heritage left dormant in museums but a 'living heritage' passed down from one generation to another. The minister further elaborated that being the 'owner of heritage' does not solely mean having pride. Ownership is linked to responsibility. If we claim Khmer culture and civilization as ours, we must ask ourselves what we have done to protect it. To what extent do Cambodian youth understand their history, language, arts, and cultural values? Are we using digital technology to promote our heritage, or are we allowing it to be spoken of by others? Cambodia is the owner of Khmer culture and civilization because it is a legacy created and left behind by Khmer ancestors. We inherit this legacy from our ancestors and have the duty to protect it in our generation. We must then hand it over to our children and grandchildren for future generations without losing its identity and value, he concluded. The minister added that Cambodian culture is the soul of the nation, and Khmer civilization is the testimony of history. Protecting and promoting it is protecting Cambodia's identity and future. Source: Koh Santepheap Khmer