Pursat (FN), Mar. 31 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet advised the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts to prepare an application for an inscription of “Songkran in Cambodia” in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2025.

The premier spoke on Sunday morning (Mar. 31) at the inauguration of Preah Botum Stupa at Mony Ratanaream Pagoda in Pursat province.

Samdech Thipadei highlighted that Cambodia is in the process of nominating seven additional cultural elements for inclusion in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. This year, Cambodia is preparing to nominate the Cambodian scarf, Krama.

"Rest assured that we will continue to use and celebrate the tradition of 'Songkran in Cambodia' in the future. I already advised the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts to prepare the application to enlist "Sangkran in Cambodia" next year. There should be no confusion or restrictions in 2026. It's perfectly acceptable, and there are no prohibitions. If Laos wishes to nominate 'Songkran in Laos' in the future, it is also welcomed, as it is a similar cultural tradition," the premier underscored.

"Both the Ministry and the Royal Government are actively engaged. Over the past 30 years, we have successfully nominated many elements of Cambodia's heritage for the inclusion. However, we can only nominate one per year. Our scarf will be nominated in 2024, followed by our Cambodian wedding tradition in 2025," the premier continued.

Today, numerous countries worldwide are celebrating Songkran, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, parts of northeastern India, parts of Viet Nam, and Xishuangbanna, China.

Should Thailand register “Songkran in Thailand” exclusively, it will not hinder the registration of Songkran in Cambodia or any other country in the future.

The term “Songkran” appears on inscriptions at our temples. “Songkran” is a Sanskrit word originating in India, meaning a cycle of time throughout the year.

Samdech Thipadei mentioned that safeguarding cultural heritage is the top priority for the Royal Government in every mandate. Cambodia does not miss the celebration of the Khmer New Year, and this year will be more fun in every province nationwide.

Taking this occasion, the premier also advised young citizens to enjoy celebrating the Khmer New Year without affecting the dignity and value of Cambodian women.
=FRESH NEWS