As Cambodia prepares to celebrate the 27th National Culture Day, a fresh wave of energy is sweeping through the country, driven by the youth, who are increasingly becoming the custodians of the nation’s cultural legacy. 

This event emphasises the pivotal role young Cambodians will play in preserving and advancing the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage for future generations.

National Culture Day, observed between March 3 and Khmer New Year, was established by the government to honour the efforts of past generations who develop Cambodia's unique culture. 

A set of guidelines for this year’s festivities set forth by Prime Minister Hun Manet and the government on January 31 underscore the importance of instilling a sense of cultural pride and responsibility in the youth, ensuring that they carry forward the traditions, arts, customs and values that are deeply embedded in the country’s identity.

According to the prime minister, “Youth are the driving force in preserving, protecting and developing national culture”.

Sum Map, spokesman for the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, said that since 2015, the theme for National Culture Day has remained unchanged: “Youth for National Culture”.

“This theme underscores the importance of young people as the pillars of the nation and future custodians of cultural heritage,” he said. 

The “Smile of Cambodia” festival will celebrate the 21st anniversary of King Norodom Sihamoni’s reign this year. Supplied

“It encourages their active participation in the preservation, promotion and development of Cambodia’s cultural arts while fostering creativity in producing new artistic works which are rooted in national identity,” he added.

This year’s celebrations are designed to inspire young people to embrace their identity and actively participate in cultural activities, both traditional and modern.

The ministry will strengthen this engagement through training, workshops and events that promote heritage preservation.

Map noted that activities will be organised nationwide, including a grand March 5 ceremony which the prime minister will personally attend.

“It also supports cultural events in communities, schools and at embassies abroad to foster national unity and pride,” he added.

Various ministries and organisations have joined forces to promote the event, including the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, which has rolled out initiatives in schools designed to instil cultural pride in students. 

Sokea Kimleang, known as Kon Ant, performs an Apsara dance on the slopes of Aoraki Mount Cook in New Zealand. Supplied

“From museum visits to study tours at historical sites, we aim to instil cultural appreciation in the younger generations,” said Map.

The Ministry of Tourism is also working to integrate cultural awareness into the country’s tourism sector, inviting both local and international visitors to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural landscape.

Map said that the ministry is strengthening partnerships to promote and preserve the Kingdom’s heritage.

“We are working closely with the tourism ministry to integrate cultural events into tourism development, attracting visitors through traditional performances and cultural tours,” he told The Post.

The private sector is another important partner, providing financial and technical support for artistic productions. 

Additionally, the ministry is expanding international partnerships, engaging with foreign embassies and cultural institutions to showcase Khmer culture globally through exhibitions, performances and professional training.

To ensure wider public engagement, the ministry is also working with the Ministry of Information to promote National Culture Day across traditional and digital media. 

“These efforts help deepen public understanding of our cultural identity and strengthen national pride,” added Map.

Provincial administrations have also been encouraged to organise local celebrations, ensuring that even rural communities participate in the national event.