Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has reaffirmed the Royal Government of Cambodia’s strong commitment to preserving, safeguarding and modernising the country’s documentary heritage and collective national memory.
He made the remarks while presiding over the official opening of the exhibition marking the 100th anniversary of the National Archives of Cambodia, held at the National Library in Sangkat Srah Chork, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, on Wednesday morning.
Held under the theme “Shared Memory, Stronger Identity!”, the exhibition is not merely a commemoration of the past but also an important national platform reflecting the government’s firm commitment to protecting and modernising Cambodia’s heritage and national memory, the Prime Minister emphasised.
Samdech Thipadei said the exhibition had transformed the historic grounds of the National Archives and the National Library into a public heritage space. Open to visitors for an entire month, the event demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility for safeguarding archival records, which constitute an invaluable national asset and an irreplaceable link in the chain of the country’s collective memory.
Referring to the Khmer proverb, “A tree can stand tall because of its roots,” he stressed that archival documents are the roots of national identity and knowledge. They must therefore be carefully preserved, both in their physical form and through digitisation, to provide future generations with a solid foundation for learning and research.
The National Archives of Cambodia was built and officially put into operation on Oct. 1, 1926, marking its 100th anniversary in 2026.
The Prime Minister strongly encouraged Cambodian citizens, international tourists, students and researchers to visit the historic exhibition in large numbers to explore the valuable collections of historical documents, learn about the development of the National Archives as an institution, and discover the documentary legacy accumulated over the past century.
The centenary celebration also highlights the National Archives’ role in preserving and protecting the country’s documentary heritage as Cambodia prepares to host the 20th Francophonie Summit in 2026. The event provides an opportunity to showcase Cambodia’s history and culture to the world, alongside its commitment to modernising archival systems.
The exhibition will present the evolution of Cambodia’s national memory, from the pre-Angkorian period to the present day, including the modernisation of digital platforms. It will also feature various accompanying activities within the historic heritage grounds.
The exhibition is open free of charge to the public, including students, Cambodian and international visitors, for one full month beginning Nov. 4, 2026.
