King Calls for Unity and Cultural Preservation During Pchum Ben Festival

His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, in a royal message to the nation dated September 23, 2026, stated that the traditional "Kand Ben" and "Pchum Ben" festivals are among the most significant national traditional ceremonies that Cambodian people have always celebrated annually since ancient times. On the occasion of the commencement of these festivals, which will be celebrated from September 27 to October 11, 2026, His Majesty expressed his immense joy and extended congratulations along with the Cambodian people. The King emphasized that "Kand Ben" and "Pchum Ben" are important national traditional festivals that have been celebrated annually by the Cambodian people since ancient times. His Majesty stated that this festival holds profound significance and meaning as it is a special occasion for all Cambodian people, whether near or far, to travel back to their hometowns to reunite with family and relatives, and to participate in traditional merit-making ceremonies at their homes and pagodas. Furthermore, the King added that the "Kand Ben" and "Pchum Ben" festivals are also a time for Cambodian people to express their gratitude and devotion to their benefactors, as well as to dedicate merits to their ancestors and relatives who have passed away. His Majesty also expressed his admiration and high evaluation for the spirit of solidarity, unity, and excellent relations demonstrated by the Cambodian people through their participation in celebrating these glorious national traditional festivals. This spirit of loving culture and participating in the protection and preservation of the nation's fine traditions and customs is invaluable, ensuring they endure and flourish from one generation to the next, serving as a precious heritage for the nation and every Cambodian child. His Majesty further urged, "On this auspicious and noble occasion of the "Kand Ben" and "Pchum Ben" festivals, may all Cambodian people continue to participate in protecting, preserving, and promoting the nation's sublime traditions, customs, and culture, and collectively strengthen solidarity and national unity to further consolidate social peace and stability, and to continuously build and develop the nation for everlasting prosperity."