Cambodia Repatriates 20 Khmer Artefacts from Private Asian Collection

PHNOM PENH, April 7, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has recovered 20 cultural artefacts from a private collection in Asia, in what officials described Tuesday as a significant step in efforts to restore the country’s heritage.

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts said the items include sandstone sculptures and bronze works, with several dating to the Bayon period and believed to originate from Angkor Thom.

Officials said the artefacts represent important symbols of Cambodia’s historical and spiritual identity, and their return would contribute to a deeper global understanding of Khmer civilisation.

The repatriation was facilitated by legal and cultural experts, including Imran Hamid Khwaja of Tan Rajah & Cheah and Bradley J. Gordon, who helped structure negotiations.

Authorities said the move is part of Cambodia’s broader campaign to reclaim cultural property lost during past conflicts, calling it a “powerful affirmation” of the country’s pursuit of justice for its heritage.

The ministry thanked senior leaders, including Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, for supporting recovery efforts, and urged museums and private collectors worldwide to engage in repatriation discussions.