Cambodia Marks First Intangible Cultural Heritage Week, Celebrates Tug-of-War’s UNESCO Decade

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Nov. 29, 2025) — Cambodia launched its first Intangible Cultural Heritage Week this weekend, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the traditional tug-of-war game’s inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The two-day event, held Nov. 29–30 around the Techo Meas–Techo Yat statue along Walk Street, was presided over by Long Dy Sannara, secretary of state of Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. Organized by the ministry’s Department of Cultural Techniques, the program highlights Cambodia’s achievements in safeguarding and promoting intangible heritage.

Since 2003, Cambodia has successfully registered seven intangible cultural heritage elements with UNESCO. Tug-of-war, known locally as Teanh Prot, was added on Dec. 2, 2015. Officials said the anniversary provides an opportunity to showcase efforts to preserve traditional games, strengthen community participation, and expand cultural exchange.

The ministry said the week also aims to position Phnom Penh as a hub for cultural tourism. Activities included exhibitions of intangible heritage and handicrafts, with 23 booths featuring performances, traditional games, and demonstrations by community groups along the Tonle Sap River.

“Cambodia remains committed to promoting its living heritage, fostering dialogue among artists and practitioners, and sharing knowledge with the wider public,” the ministry said in a statement.