The APSARA National Authority (ANA) and Immersive Angkor have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on plans to collaborate on the “Immersive Angkor Museum”, set to open in 2025.
The partnership aims to use cutting-edge technology to create a unique cultural experience that brings Angkor’s history to life.
The MoU outlines plans to create an interactive museum in Siem Reap province, which will take visitors on a journey through the history of the temples of the Angkor Archaeological Park, using the latest 3D-scanning technology to recreate their evolution.
A September 26 joint press release explained that the ANA will provide scientific guidance to ensure historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity, while Immersive Angkor will develop and manage the museum.
Hang Peou, director-general of the ANA, stated, “This partnership aligns with our mission to preserve and promote the Angkor park. Working with Immersive Angkor allows us to enhance visitor experiences and contribute to digital preservation efforts, further solidifying Angkor’s status as a global cultural icon”.
“This collaboration is pivotal for sharing Angkor’s history through new technology. The Immersive Angkor Museum will offer a journey through time, deepening visitors’ understanding of Cambodia’s cultural heritage while ensuring the preservation of its legacy,” added Soreasmey Ke Bin, CEO of Immersive Angkor, via the press release.
According to the release, the scope of the MoU encompasses more than just the museum. Extensive temple scans will be conducted, marking a significant milestone in creating a digital library of Angkor’s temples. This digital preservation effort ensures the temples’ legacy for future generations.
“Additionally, Immersive Angkor will provide training to ANA teams on the latest scanning technologies, making knowledge transfer an essential component of the project,” it added.
It noted that the project was first mooted during the International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Site of Angkor (ICC Angkor), during its 30th session in December 2022.
It was officially presented to Prime Minister Hun Manet in January of this year, with the prime minister declaring it “excellent”. He expressed his belief that the project would expand an understanding of Cambodian culture and civilisation, especially among the younger generation.
Long Kosal, ANA deputy director-general and spokesman, highlighted the importance of the public-private partnership.
“The Royal Government of Cambodia, through the ANA, is committed to welcoming investments in tourism that improve visitors’ knowledge of the Angkor Archaeological Park and enhance their experience. This collaboration with Immersive Angkor exemplifies how we can work together to achieve these goals,” he noted, through the release.
The museum will be located in a new 2,000sq m facility and is expected to welcome up to 1,500 visitors per day, with peak hours accommodating 180 visitors per hour. The immersive hall itself will span 1,000sq m, and will feature 8m-high projection walls.
The press release suggested that the museum will increase Angkor’s global visibility, promote tourism and support heritage preservation.
“As Angkor’s tourism sector continues to recover from the pandemic, it is essential to provide high-value experiences that attract new visitors and encourage them to extend their stays in Siem Reap. Immersive Angkor aims to do just that, offering a cultural product designed for both local and international audiences,” it added.
“The signing of this MoU marks an important milestone, moving this project toward real implementation. We are ready to start the work, with content development progressing well. We aim to open the museum by late 2025. While our focus is on making Immersive Angkor a success, we’re always exploring ways to further enhance Siem Reap’s cultural offerings,” noted Soreasmey.