The Japanese Cabinet Office on April 29 announced that Dr Ang Choulean, a professor at the Royal University of Fine Arts, would be awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, 3rd Class, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon in recognition of his contributions to the “promotion of academic exchanges and mutual understanding” between Japan and Cambodia, according to the Japanese embassy in Phnom Penh.

Dr Choulean is one of the recipients of the 2022 Spring Conferment of Decorations, which are “bestowed upon individuals of merit in recognition of their national or public services, and in honor of their distinguished accomplishments in various areas in society”, the Japanese embassy said in a statement on April 29.

“In the field of conservation and restoration of archaeological sites, Dr Ang Choulean has fully supported Japan's contribution in cooperation with Japanese researchers and relevant institutions.

“He enabled smooth operation of the projects and contributed to the enhancement of Japan's presence,” it said.

“An awarding ceremony will be organised in due course.”