Author: Raksmey Hong

In Phnom Penh’s Mean Chey district, amidst the murmurs of history and transition at Russey Village Primary School, emerges a symbol of steadfast dedication – Sun Somala, an educator who has cultivated young minds at the school since 1993. When she began her teaching journey, the campus was a wooden structure with a palm-thatched roof. She has witnessed the school’s evolution from its humble beginnings, a classroom under the shade of trees, to its present state, a series of concrete buildings. Due to an ever-increasing number of students – and the recent demolition of a three room building, due to…

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Foreign minister Sok Chenda Sophea has lauded the evolution of Cambodia’s bilateral relations with Japan, highlighting close cooperation in various sectors, people-to-people ties and Japan’s substantial contributions to the Kingdom’s development. The minister made the remarks during the February 14 celebration of the 64th birthday of Naruhito, Emperor of Japan, held at the Japanese Ambassador’s Official Residence in Phnom Penh. The celebration, attended by key dignitaries from both nations, reflected the strategic partnership and mutual respect that has characterised the Cambodia-Japan relationship for decades. Chenda Sophea, who is also deputy prime minister, extended his heartfelt wishes to the Emperor, the…

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In The Koh Ker Conspiracy: An Archaeological Thriller, author Caleb Andrew navigates the delicate balance between historical accuracy and adventure storytelling. In the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, the story begins at a humble noodle shop, a scene inspired by the author’s own mornings shared with friends, capturing the essence of Cambodian life. The narrative then leads the readers to the mysterious ruins of Koh Ker, an archaeological site where an untouched pyramid evokes a sense of wonder, reflecting the author’s own exploration in 2004. Through the tale, vivid snapshots of the Kingdom unfold: serene sunsets along the Tonle Bassac…

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In a neat blue shirt, Seang Socheata exudes calm, revealing a maturity that belies her age. Her gentle eyes and subtle smile hint at a journey marked by resilience, a narrative shaped by both challenges and triumphs. Socheata stands as a testament to the impact of educational opportunities, of the kind provided by institutions like the Neeson Cripps Academy (NCA) – the flagship educational facility of the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) founded by former Hollywood executive Scott Neeson – where youths are given the chance to carve out pathways to their own futures. At 19, she studies international relations at…

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Minister of Health Chheang Ra has been honoured as a Knight of the National Order of the Legion of Honour by the French government. The honour was created by French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, and can be awarded to soldiers and civilians who have served France, or supported causes defended by France. On behalf of French President Emmanuel Macron, French ambassador to Cambodia Jacques Pellet bestowed the honour on Ra in a February 1 ceremony at the French embassy in Phnom Penh. The minister received the award in recognition for his work in fostering a close relationship between France…

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At 23, Tepolak Seth embodies inspiration, blending her Cambodian heritage with Silicon Valley innovations at Tesla. A Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) graduate with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in civil engineering, her journey reflects resilience, determination and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. She says her Cambodian background has a subtle influence on her work but significantly shapes her demeanour. “Tesla is very diverse but everyone is also their own person. I can be myself at Tesla and I am supported and respected. “I wouldn’t necessarily say that my whole identity is being Cambodian. I am many things;…

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