AKP Phnom Penh, July 03, 2026 --

Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet has extended his congratulations and shared reflections on the 75th anniversary of Cambodia’s accession to UNESCO (July 3, 1951 - July 3, 2026).

In a social media post this morning, the Prime Minister noted that since becoming a UNESCO member, Cambodia has successfully registered four of its heritage sites on the Tangible Cultural Heritage List, seven elements on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List, and three items on the Memory of the World Register. These inscriptions help preserve the authentic forms of Cambodian culture, safeguard the priceless legacy of the Khmer ancestors, and protect the nation’s historical memory.

The 14 listed Cambodian heritage include:

1. Tangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity: Angkor Archeological Park listed on Dec. 14, 1992; Preah Vihear Temple on July 7, 2008; Sambor Prei Kuk temple complex on July 8, 2017; and Koh Ker Archeological Site on Sept. 17, 2023.

2. Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity: Preah Reach Troap Dance (Royal Ballet) inscribed on Nov. 7, 2003; Lkhon Sbek Thom, the big shadow puppet theatre, on Nov. 25, 2005; Tean Prot (tug-of-war) on Dec. 2, 2015; Chapei Dang Veng, Cambodian two-stringed, long-necked guitar, on Nov. 30, 2016; Lkhon Khol Wat Svay Andet on Nov. 28, 2018; Kun Lbokator, traditional martial art, on Nov. 29, 2022; and Krama Khmer (Cambodian scarf), on Dec. 4, 2024.

3. Memory of the World Register: Tuol Sleng Genocide Archives registered on July 31, 2009, the Audio file of Reamker by Ta Krut on May 15, 2014; the story of Inav Bosiba on Oct. 30, 2017.

“The protection of cultural heritage is the duty of all Cambodians,” Samdech Thipadei underscored.

Established on Nov. 16, 1945, UNESCO carries the special mission of maintaining global peace and security by fostering cooperation among nations through education, science, culture, and communication.

By C. Nika