AKP Phnom Penh, April 07, 2026 -- Cambodia has successfully repatriated 20 Khmer cultural objects from a private collection in Asia, marking another significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to recover its cultural heritage.

In a press release AKP received this afternoon, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts announced that the returned artifacts include a diverse range of sandstone sculptures and bronze works. Among the highlights are exceptional statues from the Bayon period, believed to originate from the historic Angkor Thom site.

The Ministry described the objects as more than artistic masterpieces, calling them “living witnesses” to the spiritual and cultural legacy of Khmer civilisation. Their return is expected to contribute significantly to a deeper global understanding of Cambodia’s history.

The repatriation was made possible through the coordinated efforts of a dedicated restitution team, that played a key role in advising, structuring, and executing the discussions that led to the return of these objects. Central to these efforts was Imran Hamid Khwaja, a Partner at Tan Rajah & Cheah, one of Singapore's oldest law firms, and a distinguished litigator with extensive experience in international dispute resolution. Mr. Khwaja and Bradley J. Gordon of Edenbridge Asia played a key role in structuring the return of these national treasures.

The Ministry emphasised that the return of these artifacts reflects Cambodia’s continued commitment to reclaiming its cultural patrimony and ensuring its preservation for future generations. It also described the repatriation as a powerful symbol of justice for cultural heritage displaced during past conflicts.

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts expressed gratitude to Senate President and former Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, as well as Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, for their leadership and the implementation of the Win-Win Policy, which helped create the conditions necessary for such recoveries.

Appreciation was also extended to international partners and members of the restitution team, including Melina Antoniadis of NOSTOS Strategies, for their contributions to the successful return.

The Ministry called on museums and private collectors around the world holding Khmer artifacts to engage in constructive dialogue toward their potential repatriation to Cambodia.

By C. Nika