Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 11 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet clarified that the organisation of Angkor Sangkran in Siem Reap is a tourism event aimed at attracting visitors, addressing over 4,500 Vanda Institute graduates on Tuesday morning (Mar. 11) at the Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Samdech Thipadei underscored, "Yesterday, I saw reports that the Cambodian government is organising Angkor Sangkran in April, and some individuals abroad, when interviewed by Radio Free Asia, claimed that it is useless, a waste of money, and does not benefit the people who are struggling financially. I acknowledge your views, but I also have a different perspective based on reality. If you ask the people of Siem Reap—the market vendors, tuk-tuk drivers, and local residents who rely on tourism—you will find that no one is unhappy about the event because it brings visitors and boosts their income."

Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also addressed criticism that Cambodia previously lacked tourism events to attract visitors, but now, with the organisation of Angkor Sangkran, the event contributes to improving the livelihoods of Siem Reap residents who depend on the tourism sector.

He also clarified that Angkor Sangkran in Siem Reap does not replace Sangkran celebrations nationwide—festivities will continue in the capital and other provinces, allowing people across the country to enjoy the New Year celebrations.

On this occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also stated that Cambodia is in the process of preparing documents to apply for the registration of the New Year's Sangkran Festival on the UNESCO World Heritage List. He noted that last year, the Khmer Krama Festival was successfully registered, and efforts will continue to achieve similar recognition for Sangkran.

Please note that on 9 March 2025, Hun Many, President of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) and Chairman of the Angkor Sangkran Organising Committee, led a ceremony at the western bridge of Angkor Wat to pray to the gods, landowners, and guardian spirits of Angkor Temple for the successful preparation and execution of the 2025 Angkor Sangkran event. The event is set to celebrate the Khmer New Year and promote happiness and prosperity.
=FRESH NEWS