Cambodian Culture Minister on Tuesday called on young people to take an active role in safeguarding and promoting the nation’s cultural heritage, amid what she described as attempts by a neighbouring country to misinterpret Cambodia’s cultural legacy.
Speaking at the 28th Celebration of National Culture Day commemorations and the 7th nationwide gathering with artists at the Chaktomuk Conference Hall in Phnom Penh on Mar. 3, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts H.E. Dr. Phoeurng Sackona said recent developments underscored the shared responsibility of all Cambodians in protecting their cultural identity.
“In recent times, we have observed efforts by a neighbouring country to reinterpret our national cultural heritage in ways that diverge from its original sources,” she said.
“This is not a new issue, but it serves as a reminder that the protection, preservation, promotion and development of our culture is not the duty of a single ministry alone – it is a collective obligation of the Cambodian people.”
The minister highlighted the growing influence of global cultural trends on Cambodian youth, driven largely by rapid digital transformation. While acknowledging the benefits of expanded global access to knowledge and exchange, she cautioned that foreign cultural influences could also affect national identity.
“As successors to our heritage, youth play a vital role in selecting, adapting and refining foreign cultural elements in ways that align with our cherished national traditions,” she said. “We must encourage young people to distinguish between embracing innovation and losing their original identity.”
She stressed the importance of fostering an environment in which young Cambodians take pride in their cultural roots and use them as a strong foundation for creativity and innovation. The ministry, she added, will continue working closely with national and international institutions to safeguard cultural heritage through legal frameworks and official documentation.
In the context of digital transformation, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts is focusing on strengthening youth capacity to use technology to preserve and promote national culture.
The minister encouraged young people to become digital content creators, artists and advocates who can elevate Khmer cultural values on the global stage.
She also emphasised the increasing importance of youth participation in the cultural and creative industries, calling for greater collaboration to foster entrepreneurship and expand business opportunities in the arts and creative sectors.
