AKP Phnom Penh, July 04, 2025 -–

Cambodia's sustained peace and the improved living standards of its citizens are crucial to the continued flourishing of Buddhism, allowing communities to preserve ancient traditions and develop pagodas nationwide.

The remarks were made by Samdech Kitti Sangahapundit Men Sam An, Member of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King, during a Krong Porli ceremony.

Samdech Men Sam An presided over the religious ceremony for a new temple at Wat Po Preksa Kharam (commonly known as Wat Top) in Trapeang Pring Khang Cheung village, Trapeang Pring commune, Teuk Chhou district, Kampot province, this morning.

The construction of the new temple was a collaborative effort, initiated by Samdech Vannaroth Kitti Pundit Noy Chreuk, Samdech Men Sam An, Kampot Governor H.E. Mao Thonin and his family, together with other charities, and local Buddhist devotees, all united by their profound devotion to Buddhism.

Samdech Men Sam An highlighted the significant transformation Cambodia has undergone. She contrasted the present with the severe hardships and lingering effects of war over 46 years ago, which often delayed pagoda construction for more than a decade.

Today, thanks to the prevailing peace and improved social conditions, magnificent temple can often be completed within a mere one to two years.

Wat Top, originally established in 1950, has undergone continuous development for the past 75 years. Notably, Samdech Men Sam An also presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for this new temple at the pagoda on April 22, 2025.

Further underscoring the Royal Government's commitment to supporting the Buddhist faith and community development, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet, representing Samdech Moha Bovor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, is scheduled to preside over the inauguration ceremony of newly completed achievements at Wat Top Preksa Kharam tomorrow, July 5, 2025.

By K. Rithy Reak