AKP Phnom Penh, February 20, 2025 --  

A religious ceremony was held at Bayon Temple in Siem Reap province to commemorate the 30th founding anniversary of the APSARA National Authority (ANA), featuring offerings to 130 Buddhist monks.

H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts and President of the Board of ANA, presided over the event, with UNESCO Representative in Cambodia Mr. Sardar Umar Alam, ANA Director General H.E. Dr. Hang Peou, and H.E. Prak Sophoan, Governor of Siem Reap province, as well as many other stakeholders and APSARA staff in attendance.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Dr. Hang Peou highlighted the ANA's significant role in conservation efforts, supported by the International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Sites of Angkor (ICC-Angkor) and international allies. He noted that Angkor was removed from the list of endangered heritage sites in 2004, allowing ANA to focus on sustainable development and conservation.

The Director General emphasised the importance of caring for the 112 villages in the Angkor region, which are integral to preserving the area's intangible heritage and cultural identity.

H.E. Dr. Hang Peou credited the ANA’s achievements to the peace and leadership provided by the Royal Government of Cambodia, dedicating the success to the Late King-Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk and other national and international leaders committed to protecting Angkor.

H.E. Dr. PHOEURNG Sackona remarked that the anniversary celebration not only honored the establishment of the ANA, but also recognised the contributions of past leaders who worked tirelessly to protect Angkor's cultural heritage. She noted that under the leadership of Former Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and his successor Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, there has been significant progress in tourism and culture, enhancing Angkor's appeal to both national and international visitors.

The culture minister also expressed her gratitude to all those involved in the conservation and development efforts at Angkor, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in preserving this invaluable cultural site.

By Phal Sophanith