130-Year Journey of Veun Sai’s Chinese-Cambodian Community in Rattanakiri Province
AKP Phnom Penh, May 25, 2026 --
The enduring bond between China and Cambodia is uniquely alive in a historic village tucked away in Cambodia’s northeastern province of Rattanakiri.
A high-level visit led by Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. Wang Wenbin last week to the Chinese village in Veun Sai district has shined a spotlight on a remarkable community whose roots trace back more than 130 years to Guangdong province, China.
In the late 19th century, Hakka settlers from Huiyang, Guangdong, travelled a massive distance to eventually make Veun Sai their home.
Today, that legacy is carried on by their descendants, who have now reached their fifth generation in the province.
Despite the passage of well over a century, the community has preserved its cultural heritage while deeply integrating into the fabric of northeastern Cambodia.
The village stands as a powerful testament to peaceful coexistence and cultural harmony.
For generations, these Chinese-Cambodian families have lived side-by-side with local residents, fostering an environment of mutual respect and shared prosperity.
"For over a century, these villagers have lived in harmony with the local residents, vividly demonstrating the friendship between China and Cambodia passing down from generation to generation,” H.E Wang Wenbin said.
As Cambodia and China continue to strengthen their bilateral and cultural ties this small community in Rattanakiri serves as a brilliant, living example of grassroots diplomacy and generational friendship.



By Chea Vannak





