In Preah Vihear, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Chaom Pen, three forest warriors – Ta Chhum, Ta Lim, and Ta Vorng – sit by the Beoung Chhuk (Lotus Pond) station, sharing their inspiring tales of courage and commitment to preserving their ancestral land.

These heroes, who have dedicated their lives to protecting forests, water sources and the cultural heritage of the Kouy indigenous people, embody the spirit of resilience and love for nature.

As the conversation begins, Chhum, a steadfast protector of the land, reflects on his deep connection to the forest.

“I protect forests for future generations,” he says, before recounting the challenges he faced when he first moved to Chaom Pen in 2018.

“The decision to relocate here was critical," Chhum recalls. "There were threats, illegal hunting and rampant logging. But we stood our ground.”

“With the help of provincial and environmental governments, we managed to reduce these issues. Our fight continues, driven by the passion to preserve what is ours.”

The making of a Kouy traditional torch and the sustainable collection of resin. Supplied

Lim, another guardian of the land, emphasises the importance of understanding one's identity and purpose. "Before you ask for assistance from God, you must first help yourself," Lim advises.

He emphasised that knowing who you are and what you want is essential.

His words resonated deeply as he shared his commitment to preserving his culture and heritage.

He added that without land and forests, farmers don't know why they are here, explaining that these are the resources that sustain them and that they cannot let them disappear.

For Lim, the land is more than just a source of livelihood – it is a part of his identity.

“This is where my forefathers lived, farmed, and fished. This location is integral to who we are. I can't let anyone take that away from me.”

The fight to protect the land is not without its challenges. As Vorng reflects on his past, he recalls a time when his physical strength allowed him to patrol the forests more effectively.

SakYant protection tattoos on trees in the Chom Pen community. Supplied

“I was stronger and more courageous when I was younger,” he says. “But now, as I age, my health is deteriorating. My hearing and vision are not what they used to be. I fear that no one will continue the work we have started.”

Despite these challenges, Vorng remains determined. He suggests that raising chickens could provide a source of income to support their efforts, particularly for food and medical needs.

He is concerned, however, about the future of the forest as the seniors who have cared for it are aging.

“Since the elders who love and care for this forest are getting older, I’m worried about the future of the forest,” says Vorng, with a touch of worry in his voice.

These forest guardians don’t wear capes. They patrol the forest in flip-flops, old clothes and headlamps, their hearts full of dedication and love for the land they protect.

The struggle to preserve the forest and its ecosystem requires not only physical effort but also emotional and financial support.

The heroes hope to inspire the next generation to become involved in conservation and environmental protection efforts.

A Kouy woman gathers forest products. Supplied

“We need more youth to become aware of and involved in these efforts,” Chhum says, his voice filled with hope for the future.

The Kouy people, through their culture and ancestral practices, have been protecting the forests of Cambodia for centuries.

Their unique way of life, rooted in deep ecological wisdom, has allowed them to live in harmony with nature, sustaining the land and its resources.

Today, as the Kouy face increasing threats to their land from illegal logging and land grabbing, their efforts to preserve the forest have become even more urgent.

As part of their commitment to environmental preservation, the Kouy people have been organising exhibitions to raise awareness about the importance of protecting their cultural heritage and the forest.

The latest exhibition, titled “AELTEY”, meaning “holding hands” in Kouy, symbolises the spirit of collaboration and mutual help that is central to their way of life.

“I opened a new exhibition last Saturday in F3 (Friends Future Factory, for Phnom Fem Fest), to help women from the Kouy indigenous community I collaborate with in Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom, all sales for fundraising to support their efforts to preserve the forest and their ancestral culture,” the Phnom Penh-based Portuguese Miguel Jeronimo told The Post.

Through art, traditional products and stories, the exhibition seeks to educate the public about the Kouy people’s deep connection to the land and their ongoing efforts to safeguard it.

Another smiling Kouy woman prepares a meal with the bounty of the land that sustains them. Supplied

By living in harmony with nature, they have preserved their traditions since the time of Angkor, using sustainable materials like resin, leaves, vines, and wild fruits to support their livelihoods.

They aim to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with nature, especially in light of ongoing land grabbing and ecosystem destruction.

Through an exhibition of artworks and local products, they seek to fundraise for forest preservation and youth programmes.

The Kouy people believe in the philosophy of Aeltey—mutual help and collaboration—used in agriculture and community building.

Their practices, like ordaining trees to protect them from illegal logging and controlled burning to sustain vital resources, are essential for the survival of their ecosystems.

This exhibition highlights the integral role of women in the community, who are key to protecting the environment and supporting the village's social fabric.

It emphasises the deep connection between the Kouy people and the land, recognizing the forest and its inhabitants as living entities.

In times of climate crisis, their ancient wisdom offers valuable lessons in sustainability and co-existence with nature.

Nuong Heang, an elder from the Kouy community, reflects on the importance of such exhibitions.

“This exhibition is really important in showing the community so that outsiders can learn more about the Kouy,” she says.

“We want to preserve our culture, language, traditions, and especially protect our forests.”

Phors, a young member of the Kouy community, also supported the display.

“Exhibitions like this one help spread the name of Kouy more widely. Kouy women play an important role in protecting forests and participating in community work,” she adds.

In the face of growing threats to their land, the Kouy community continues to stand strong, united in their efforts to protect the forests that sustain them.

Their wisdom, resilience and deep connection to the land serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the need to preserve our natural heritage for future generations.

The heroes of Chaom Pen may not wear costumes, but their bravery and dedication to the land make them true protectors of the environment and the culture they hold dear.

As they continue their mission, they hope to inspire others to join them in preserving the forests that have been their home for generations.