Neth Pheaktra: Cambodia’s Cultural Heritage Is a Living Legacy, Not Simply a Claim to the Past
PHNOM PENH, 22 September 2026 — Cambodia’s Information Minister Neth Pheaktra has described Cambodia as the custodian of Khmer culture and civilization, saying cultural heritage is not simply a matter of claiming ownership of the past but carries a responsibility to preserve and pass it on to future generations.
In remarks published on September 22, Neth Pheaktra said Cambodia is not merely a land of ancient temples and rich cultural heritage, but the homeland of a Khmer culture and civilization that has been built, maintained and transmitted across centuries.
He said Cambodia’s identity is reflected not only in its archaeological sites but also in its language, literature, religion, arts, architecture, music, dance, traditions and everyday way of life.
The minister said the expression that Cambodia is the “owner” of Khmer culture and civilization should be understood more broadly than a claim to historical property.
«“Cambodians are inheritors of a legacy from their ancestors and have the responsibility to continue preserving, protecting, developing and passing it on to future generations.”»
Neth Pheaktra pointed to Angkor, Preah Vihear, Sambor Prei Kuk, ancient structures, inscriptions and artistic works as evidence of the achievements of Khmer civilization, including knowledge in architecture, engineering, water management, astronomy, art and social organisation.
But he stressed that Khmer civilization does not exist only in ancient stones.
It also remains alive through the Khmer language and script, Royal Ballet, Lakhon Khol, Chapei Dang Veng, Kun Lbokator, traditional stories, festivals and everyday customs, he said.
The minister described this as evidence that Khmer culture is a living heritage, rather than something that should remain preserved only in museums or archaeological sites.
Neth Pheaktra also linked cultural ownership with responsibility, asking what present generations are doing to protect their heritage and how well young Cambodians understand their history, language, arts and cultural values.
He further encouraged the use of digital technology to promote Cambodian cultural heritage, suggesting that modern communication platforms can play a role in ensuring that Cambodia’s cultural identity continues to be understood and transmitted to younger generations.
“Being the owner of heritage does not mean simply being proud of it,” Neth Pheaktra said, stressing that ownership must be accompanied by responsibility.
He said Cambodia inherited its cultural and civilizational heritage from its ancestors, has a duty to protect it during the present generation, and must pass it to future generations without losing its identity and values.
“Khmer culture is the soul of the nation, while Khmer civilization is a testimony to its history,” Neth Pheaktra said, adding that protecting and promoting the heritage is part of protecting Cambodia’s identity and future.
