AKP Phnom Penh, November 12, 2025 --

“I was deeply honoured to take part in the diplomatic event “Music: A Bridge of Diplomacy”, hosted by the Embassy of Indonesia in Bulgaria, at the special invitation of H.E. the Ambassador of Indonesia to Bulgaria,” stated Cambodia’s Ambassador to Bulgaria H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo.

During this remarkable evening on Nov. 11, the Cambodian Ambassador performed two musical pieces: 1-Bangawan Solo; and 2- Good Bye Bogor – a Royal Composition by His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk (Preah Borom Ratanak Kaudh), the late King-Father of Cambodia.

The event served as a beautiful testament to how music can transcend borders, acting as a universal language of friendship and mutual understanding. It reminded all in attendance that music possesses a unique power to unite hearts across cultures and nations.

“Music is good diplomacy” — the philosophy behind the concept of musical diplomacy, where melodies and harmonies are used to promote cultural awareness, peace, and international relations. Music, as a form of cultural diplomacy and an instrument of soft power, bridges political and linguistic divides, connecting people on an emotional level and fostering meaningful bonds among nations.

The royal composition “Good Bye Bogor” by His Majesty the late King-Father stands as a heartfelt emblem of eternal friendship between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Republic of Indonesia.

During his state visit to Bogor, Indonesia, His Majesty the late King-Father led a high-level delegation and was warmly received at the Royal Bogor Palace by the then President of Indonesia and the Indonesian people nationwide. Throughout the visit, His Majesty held discussions with senior leaders and shared his vision for deepening bilateral friendship and strategic cooperation—advancing peace, economic development, and cultural exchange in the ASEAN region.

The composition of “Good Bye Bogor” symbolises this enduring friendship and mutual respect. It reflects His Majesty’s humanity, generosity, and devotion to peace and compassion, embodying the timeless spirit of solidarity between the peoples of Cambodia and Indonesia.

Upon His Majesty’s departure from Bogor, he expressed his hope for continued friendship and cooperation between the two nations, for the prosperity of their peoples and the lasting peace of the region.

“Good Bye Bogor is not merely a farewell,” His Majesty’s sentiment conveys, “but a message of remembrance and renewed hope — a song of friendship between our two nations that will endure for generations to come.”

Music transcends linguistic and cultural differences, creating a shared foundation for connection and understanding. It evokes empathy and emotional resonance, building bridges between individuals and communities. 

Moreover, it fosters collaboration through joint performances, cultural festivals, and educational programmes involving musicians from diverse backgrounds. Music helps create personal relationships and mutual trust, which can later support political or economic cooperation. It also serves as a platform to share a nation’s cultural heritage and values with global audiences.

By K. Rithy Reak