Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a circular instructing all ministries, institutions and relevant parties to look into the possibility of organising programmes and activities to mark the 25th National Culture Day – which falls on March 3 – at their headquarters or on social media platforms to motivate the public to embrace the spirit of loving the culture, traditions and identity of the nation.
Hun Sen said the occasion is important, as it gives Cambodians a chance to reflect on their ancestors, and the rich and precious cultural wealth that they left for later generations.
“The government pays close attention to the preservation of national culture, which is the soul of the Kingdom, and the source of its prestige. Our culture is the glue that binds the people of one community to another, and has enabled us to find peace, harmony and solidarity,” he added.
This year, the government will mark the 25th National Culture Day under the theme “Youth for the National Culture” in order to encourage the young people of Cambodia to participate more in the preservation and protection of their cultural heritage.
The circular added that the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts will prepare publicity and advise the Apsara National Authority, Preah Vihear National Authority, National Authority for Sambor Prei Kuk and the Departments of Culture and Fine Arts in the capital and provinces to publicise their achievements relating to the conservation and sustainable development of World Heritage sites and cultural resorts.
The culture ministry will cooperate with other government institutions and the private sector to jointly promote the national culture during this period.
The Ministry of Information has been allocated the task of organising a comprehensive programme to mark the day via state and private media, including: radio, television, newspapers, magazines and online media companies. This will enhance the public’s understanding of the importance of the preservation of national culture, social morality and social harmony – without discrimination on the basis of political affiliations, religion, race or colour.
The culture ministry and the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports will work together to integrate lessons about Cambodian culture and the occasion of National Cultural Day to students in all public and private educational institutions.
The Ministry of Tourism will disseminate similar information to domestic and international tourists via travel agencies, tour operators, resorts, hotels, guesthouses and restaurants.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has instructed all embassies and consulates and Cambodian communities overseas to participate in organising programmes and activities to mark the day.
