Cambodia has set the Guinness World Record for the longest handwoven scarf on Sunday, as members of the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) unrolled a Khmer krama measuring 1,149.8 metres on Koh Pich island.

“With 1,149.8 metres, you have set a new Guinness World Record!” Swapnil Dangarikar, a Guinness adjudicator, announced to a large cheering crowd, with many chanting their motto: “Believe That Khmers Can Do It”.

On February 14, the UYFC, the unofficial youth wing of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party, began the four-month process of weaving the Kingdom’s traditional scarf near the Royal Palace.

Celebrating the event, Hun Many, who heads the UYFC and is Prime Minister Hun Sen’s fourth child, said “it is a splendid achievement”.

“Though Cambodia is not one of the most amazing countries in the world, through hard work we have shown everyone that we are creative, with many talents and are united in spirit."

“We will endeavour through obstacles and accomplish great things for the Kingdom now and in the future,” Many said.

Oum Mut, 73, from Takeo province, told The Post she was happy that the scarf was recognised by the Guinness committee.

“I did not expect the scarf that I helped to weave a few months ago would break the Guinness World Record. I am so very happy at this,” she said.

Hy Sopheakna, a secondary-school teacher, said the success showed that Cambodia has a valuable culture and creative people.

“This success is the pride of Cambodia. The effort has united the spirit and solidarity of the people. It also shows that we are a country of peace because a country not at peace could not have woven an over 1,000 metre scarf,” she said.

Rav You Ngorn, 38, from Sa’ang district in Kandal province who was invited to the event, echoed similar sentiments. “This long scarf is not an accident. It originates from the creativity of a very talented people and the participation of all Cambodians. I feel so very proud,” Ngorn said.