Tourists visit Angkor Wat in Siem Reap province in January. Yousos Apdoulrashim
The “Smile of Cambodia" event will kick off in Siem Reap province next week, encouraging content producers to promote traditional Khmer culture, tourism and the delicious food available to visitors.
The function, organised by the Khmer Artists Association and the provincial administration, will run from August 12-16 to promote visits to renowned tourist sites in the province rich in culture and heritage.
The event is part of the "Visit Siem Reap 2024" campaign launched by Prime Minister Hun Manet earlier this year to boost the tourism sector, starting with Siem Reap, in an effort to recover the industry and related businesses hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to a July 8 post on the prime minister's social media, the ceremony will be held at the former headquarters of the Heritage Protection Police Department in front of Angkor Wat.
The event will include entertainment, mini exhibitions of Khmer cuisine, cultural creations and other programmes designed to engage travellers who come to enjoy.
Manet called on the public and tourists to participate in large numbers.
Seth Kimsoeun, an adviser to the association, told The Post that from August 12-14, the event will focus on producing content to be published on social media by influencers and content creators.
He said these creatives will help promote Khmer culture based on various topics ranging from traditional culture, clothing, tourism and food.
"On August 15, we will have major events such as art performances, exhibitions and Khmer food shows. This allows tourists visiting the Angkor area to taste our unique and delicious Khmer food,” he said.
Regarding content creation, Kimsoeun stated that participants can choose their subjects and shooting locations, but the content of each media piece should be consulted with experts who will provide feedback before posting on social media to avoid any unwanted cultural impact.
Khmer Artists Association president Mao Chamnan said at a meeting on August 7 that the programme represents its efforts to conserve Khmer culture and arts while linking them to tourism.
