Analyst warns nation risks losing cultural heritage narrative
Royal Academy of Cambodia Secretary-General Yang Peou calls for increased cultural promotion to safeguard national identity, at the CIFF in Phnom Penh, on Friday. RAC
Synopsis: While the Khmer civilisation remains vibrant, efforts to promote it to an international audience remain lacking, says geopolitical expert.
A geopolitical analyst has warned that Cambodia risks losing control over its cultural narrative if it fails to actively preserve and promote its national identity, amid concerns that a neighbouring country is increasingly appropriating aspects of Khmer civilisation.
Royal Academy of Cambodia Secretary-General Yang Peou issued a warning at the opening of the Cambodian International Film Festival on Friday. Held under the theme “Coming of Age” in collaboration with the Bophana Centre, the event highlighted traditional rites that reflect the core elements of Khmer identity.
Peou added that studies of coming-of-age traditions in the Angkor region demonstrate that Khmer civilisation remains vibrant and influential. However, he cautioned that current efforts to promote Khmer culture internationally remain limited.
He warned that without systematic measures, Khmer culture could face serious risks as neighbouring countries attempt to reinterpret or lay claim to Cambodia’s history. Although he did not name the countries, his remarks were widely understood to refer to Thailand.
“We have reached a point where a neighbouring country is asserting ownership of Khmer history and civilisation,” Peou said. “This is the most dangerous threat facing Cambodia.”
Peou said investment in research and cultural promotion is essential for long-term preservation, and he added that the integration of culture into school curricula remains inconsistent and necessitates improvement.
Culture and Fine Arts Minister Phoeurng Sackona, speaking during National Culture Day earlier this month, echoed these concerns. She said that safeguarding culture is a shared responsibility and highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen legal protections and promote Khmer heritage worldwide through digital technology.
Royal Academy of Cambodia Institute of Culture and Fine Arts Vice-President Hang Rithiravuth said that although Khmer culture has historically influenced the region, many Cambodians are still unaware of this impact.
“Empowering young people with cultural knowledge is crucial to preserving Cambodia’s national identity,” Rithiravuth said.
-Khmer Times-
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