Gagan Malik, a renowned Bollywood actor who is famous for his portrayal of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, has visited Cambodia’s Angkor Archaeological Park to promote tourism and peace. “On March 16, Minister of Tourism Huot Hak and Malik shared a message with the world. They described the richness of Cambodia tourism and the peace, economic security and public order that guests to the Kingdom enjoy,” said the tourism ministry. Malik, who gained international fame for his role as the Buddha in the 2013 film Sri Siddhartha Gautama, took to social media to share his admiration for the beauty and tranquility of…
Author: Raksmey Hong
In Preah Vihear, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Chaom Pen, three forest warriors – Ta Chhum, Ta Lim, and Ta Vorng – sit by the Beoung Chhuk (Lotus Pond) station, sharing their inspiring tales of courage and commitment to preserving their ancestral land. These heroes, who have dedicated their lives to protecting forests, water sources and the cultural heritage of the Kouy indigenous people, embody the spirit of resilience and love for nature. As the conversation begins, Chhum, a steadfast protector of the land, reflects on his deep connection to the forest. “I protect forests for future generations,” he…
The EU, in partnership with the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has announced a significant investment of nearly €80 million($86.69 million) to support the modernisation of the Kingdom’s agricultural sector. The aim is to improve food security, boost export potential and enhance market access for smallholder farmers across the country. “The EU financing will help modernise Cambodia’s agricultural sector, equipping smallholder farmers, agribusinesses and producer organisations with tools and infrastructure to boost production, provide access to new markets and improve food safety,” explained a joint press release. “The project will directly benefit 100,000…
Interior Minister Sar Sokha has ordered authorities to take action against individuals who modify the lights of their vehicles. “At least 15 or 16 provincial police departments have conducted enforcement operations to remedy this issue. I thank you and encourage continued enforcement and public awareness,” he said. “Some modifications, particularly those related to a vehicle’s lights, are not permitted as they can affect traffic safety,” he added. Sokha emphasised that the governors of the capital and provinces must enforce this directive without waiting for instructions from higher authorities. Authorities stop a driver who uses modified headlights to cause a nuisance…
The 14th edition of the Cambodia International Film Festival (CIFF) is set to dazzle audiences from March 21-29, with over 150 screenings and events showcasing global, and local, cinematic talent. During the 13th edition of the festival, held in June last year, Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, delivered an inspiring opening speech which emphasised the festival’s significance as a dynamic hub for global filmmakers to exchange ideas and experiences. She highlighted CIFF’s role in providing a valuable platform for young Cambodians to broaden their perspectives through a diverse selection of international films. “CIFF is a dynamic hub…
As the Earth tilts and the sun aligns perfectly with the grandeur of Angkor Wat’s central tower, the most iconic temple in Cambodia offers an awe-inspiring spectacle that draws visitors from across the globe. This natural phenomenon, known as Equinox Angkor, marks the seasonal shift and demonstrates the ingenuity of Khmer architecture and its deep connection to the cosmos. “The Equinox Angkor is a special solar phenomenon that occurs twice a year at Angkor Wat. The first, called the vernal, or spring, equinox, can occur March 21 to 23 from 5am to 6.30am,” announced the Ministry of Tourism. The autumn…
ASEAN is setting its sights on becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030, as the region strengthens trade, investment and economic partnerships amid intensifying global competition. Speaking at the “ASEAN Secretary-General’s Vision Forum 2025”, held in Phnom Penh on March 7, current ASEAN secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn highlighted the region’s economic progress and outlined the challenges ahead. “ASEAN is already among the world’s top five economies. Based on current growth projections, we are on track to climb to the top four by 2030,” he explained. “To achieve this, the economic ministers of our member nations are working to enhance trade…
Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) recorded an increase in January year-on-year visitor numbers of more than 80 per cent, with over 4,000 passengers. “International tourist arrivals reached 4,294 in January, up from 1,170 in the same period in 2024, an increase of 84.4 percent,” said the Ministry of Tourism. Cambodia’s tourism industry is experiencing an overall positive trend, with international arrivals growing by 13.3 per cent, reaching 611,894 in January 2025. This positive trend continues to build on the momentum of past years, suggesting that Preah Sihanouk’s tourism sector could see a strong recovery moving forward. Cambodia Airports announced that the…
Building on the success of last year’s Apsara Grannies project, creative collective “Feel The Warmth” has unveiled Apsara Granny 2.0, an initiative celebrating the resilience, beauty, and cultural legacy of Cambodia’s elderly women. Timed to coincide with International Women’s Day 2025, the project is a heartfelt tribute to the grandmothers cared for by the Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF), offering them an opportunity to reconnect with their heritage and share their stories. The project is spearheaded by photographers Ken Bo, Hao Taing and Raphael Pech, who have once again brought together art and community to honour the Kingdom’s elders. More than…
Several communities in Banteay Meanchey province marked a significant milestone on March 11, as 35,800 people gained direct access to clean water through 29 newly inaugurated community-wide water distribution systems. The initiative, spearheaded by World Vision – in collaboration with the Ministry of Rural Development – is set to transform daily life for more than 8,000 households across five districts: Svay Chek, Phnom Srok, Mongkul Borei, Preah Netr Preah and Thma Puok. “The water system is improving the health of our children by reducing cases of diarrhoea,” said Mao Tiet, a Water Management Committee member from Svay Chek district. “Families…