Cambodia marks ninth anniversary of Sambor Prei Kuk’s UNESCO listing

PHNOM PENH, July 8, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia has marked the ninth anniversary of Sambor Prei Kuk’s inscription on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, with King Norodom Sihamoni urging continued efforts to safeguard the nation’s cultural legacy.

The temple complex in Kampong Thom Province was added to the list on July 8, 2017, in recognition of its outstanding universal value as the capital of the pre‑Angkorian Chenla Kingdom.

In a message to commemorate the anniversary, the King said the designation had strengthened long‑term preservation of one of Cambodia’s most important archaeological sites.

He stressed that protecting cultural heritage was a shared responsibility requiring the commitment of state institutions, international partners and future generations.

The monarch paid tribute to late King‑Father Norodom Sihanouk for his lifelong dedication to heritage protection, and acknowledged the contributions of successive governments led by former Prime Minister Hun Sen and current Prime Minister Hun Manet in promoting Cambodia’s cultural identity abroad.

King Sihamoni expressed appreciation to the Royal Government, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the Sambor Prei Kuk National Authority, the ICC/Angkor‑Sambor Prei Kuk and its French and Japanese co‑chairs, as well as national and international partners for their support.

“The conservation and development of cultural heritage is an ongoing mission that requires the participation of all sectors, both nationally and internationally, especially the creativity and commitment of successive generations of Cambodians,” the King said.

He concluded by wishing peace, health and prosperity to the Cambodian people.