International guests try their hands at traditional harvesting techniques during the Smile of My Village event in Siem Reap province. Bakong My Village
Much-loved Cambodian social media influencer and comedian Chem Chanra, widely known as Peak Mi, received acclaim for organising the “Smile of My Village” event in Siem Reap province’s Prasat Bakong district on Saturday, December 7.
The one-day miniature festival event highlighted traditional Khmer farming practices such as harvesting, threshing and milling rice, while also showcasing cultural heritage activities like making ambok (flattened rice), baking clay stoves and preparing traditional Khmer desserts for both local and international tourists.
Held in Thnal Trang village in Bakong commune, the event welcomed many local guests and nearly 200 international tourists. Supported by provincial authorities, the local administrations and the Bakong My Village ecotourism community, the occasion aimed to revive memories of Cambodia’s traditional farming lifestyle while exhibiting several aspects of the Kingdom’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage to visitors.
“The event reflects the lives of Khmer people from ancient times to the present,” read a statement from the Siem Reap provincial administration.
“We extend our gratitude to Chem Chanra and Soth Sor, the head of the Bakong My Village, for successfully organising the programme,” it added.
In addition to farming demonstrations, the event featured exhibits of traditional tools, including Khmer scarves (krama), wooden rice mills, ancient plows, sugar palm leaf hats and household items like pots and baskets. Visitors also enjoyed activities such as ox-cart rides, making clay stoves and sampling local agricultural products like bananas, coconuts, watermelons and sugarcane.
Traditional Khmer music, performed by villagers using instruments like the tro (fiddle) and small drums, provided an authentic soundtrack to the event. Guests shared meals prepared using traditional methods, including grilled fish, baked chicken and steamed rice wrapped in banana or lotus leaves, avoiding the use of plastic.
Ana, a tourist from Paris, expressed her delight at the experience.
“This is my first time to discover the real lives and traditions of Cambodians. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with locals and nature. In today’s world dominated by technology and phones, traditions like these, which bring people together through shared meals and farming practices, are truly precious,” she said.
She hoped that similar events would be organised in the future to allow her friends and other tourists to experience Cambodia’s rich culture and traditions.
Chem Chanra announced plans to bring the “Smile of My Village” programme to other provinces, showcasing Cambodia's cultural diversity.
Local and international tourists enjoy a relaxing ride in traditional ox-carts, during the December 7 event. Siem Reap Provincial administration
Soth Sor, the head of the Bakong My Village Community, highlighted the community’s commitment to providing entertainment and activities for both local and international tourists, including ox-cart rides, sports, and traditional Khmer food and drinks.
Khiev Thy, president of the Angkor Tourist Guides Association (KATGA), supported such initiatives, urging for more frequent events to give tourists a deeper understanding of Khmer culture and traditions.
“Even tourists visiting for a short time will appreciate these events and help spread the good word about Cambodia’s cultural richness,” he said, suggesting a clear calendar of events like marathons, traditional dance shows and cultural fairs to enhance tourist experiences.
Chhort Bunthang, a specialist in culture, education and tourism at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, praised the programme for reviving ancient Khmer activities such as traditional rice milling and fishing. He noted that these practices are disappearing due to the rise of modern technology.
However, he acknowledged the challenges of organising such events, as preferences differ among tourists from Europe and Asia. He encouraged influencers and social media figures to engage in socially beneficial activities, drawing inspiration from Peak Mi’s initiative.
“It’s excellent when influencers use their reach to promote good causes, benefiting both themselves and society,” he said.
Ministry of Information spokesperson Tep Asnarith commended the event as a positive contribution to Cambodia’s image, highlighting the country’s ongoing development, progress and peace.
“I thank all content creators and influencers who produce and share valuable content that educates, entertains and brings joy to the public,” Asnarith said. He emphasised the importance of adhering to ethical standards when using social media to ensure transparency, trust and societal stability.
