Kralanh district in Siem Reap province has issued a request for all commuters to show respect for the national anthem, which will be played every Monday and Friday at 7am starting July 24.
This unique initiative has stirred the interest of people who believe it could be replicated across the country.
“In an effort to promote our national identity and raise awareness, especially among locals, the district administration has arranged to play the national anthem, Nokor Reach, on loudspeakers set up throughout the district,” district governor Sok Nareth announced on July 18.
Loudspeakers have been installed from the front of the district hall to the roundabout intersection, ensuring the anthem echoes throughout the district at the designated time, he noted.
“We believe this initiative will foster a love for our national identity and promote order in the district,” he said.
Cambodian history lecturer Sambo Manara voiced his support for the activity on the same day.
“When I was a youngster, regardless of whether the school was small or large, or whether the anthem was played at a ministry or a workplace, we always respected Nokor Reach. But in this modern age, it seems people are forgetting their gratitude to the nation, which may lead to a loss of national identity,” he said.
The lecturer further emphasised his desire to see this initiative implemented nationwide, given the significance of the Cambodian flag to the nation’s identity.
Echoing similar sentiments, Kin Phea, director of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, praised the move.
“Nokor Reach carries significant meaning, reminding us of the glorious civilisation of the Khmer temples. I encourage everyone, not just those in Kralanh district, to participate and listen with their hearts.”
According to the district administration, this practice will not be a short-term phenomenon but will continue for a considerable period.
The administration also urged local and international travellers, officials and everyone passing through the district to pause and pay their respects to the national anthem before continuing their journey or activity.
The tradition of showing respect to the national anthem is not a new concept for some provinces and ministries in Cambodia. It has been practised for many years, but Kralanh district is now embracing this patriotic initiative, it said.
