The discussion on October 31 between Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) chairman Keo Remy and well-known comedian Ou Bunnarath – better known as Krem – and Chorn Chan Leakhena, president of the Khmer Artists Association, regarding comments made by Bunnarath while appearing as a judge on the Cambodia’s Got Talent. KEO REMY
The Rainbow Community Kampuchea (RoCK) has called on the public to halt the use of negative and discriminatory comments that could affect the rights and dignity of all individuals, including members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) community.
The request followed an October 31 discussion between Cambodian Human Rights Committee (CHRC) chairman Keo Remy and well-known comedian Ou Bunnarath – better known as Krem – and Chorn Chan Leakhena, president of the Khmer Artists Association, regarding comments made by Bunnarath while appearing as a judge on the Cambodia’s Got Talent.
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A LGBT entrant – himself a celebrity wedding embellishment business owner – appeared on an October 28 episode of the popular TV show, and Krem made several remarks which could be interpreted as disparaging to the LGBT community.
The meeting followed a request from the RoCK for intervention by the CHRC.
In a thank-you letter to the committee, RoCK coordinator Ly Pisey explained that the case had been resolved through a peaceful and transparent mechanism, in a harmonious and respectful atmosphere.
“RoCK hopes that all people will end negative and discriminatory discussion and comments that could affect the rights and dignity of all individuals, including members of the LGBT community,” she said.
“We should adhere to the spirit and culture of respect, tolerance, care, support, honour and praise each other. We are working together to eliminate hatred, stigma, discrimination and humiliation in Cambodian society,” she added.
CHRC chairman Remy, who mediated the conversation, thanked all stakeholders for participating in the discussions.
“After speaking, we understood each other. In fact, what he [Krem] said was unintentional.
“Former Prime Minister Hun Sen advised us not to practise discrimination. We need to continue to maintain, protect and develop this further. I urge the public to have tolerance for each other. We must demonstrate our understanding for people of different cultures,” he said.
Krem explained at the meeting that he did not intend to discriminate against the LGBT community.
“I accept that the contestant was offended, but it was not intended to be discrimination. I actually support the LBGT community and have even helped members of the community find work in the entertainment industry,” he said.
RoCK said it remains committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve its vision of LGBT Cambodians being loved for who they are, adding that they should live happily in society with their rights protected and respected and receive full and equal acceptance from all parts of society.
