Cambodia Balances New Year Festivities With Border Security, Says Spokesman

PHNOM PENH, April 17, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s government on Thursday defended the continuation of Khmer New Year celebrations despite tensions along the Thai border, saying the smooth organisation of the festival reflected efforts to balance national priorities.

Government spokesman Pen Bona told reporters the festivities underscored the authorities’ ability to maintain stability while supporting displaced communities and frontline forces, safeguarding territorial integrity, and sustaining economic activity, tourism and cultural traditions.

He said Cambodia remained committed to resolving disputes with Thailand through peaceful means, citing bilateral mechanisms such as the Joint Boundary Commission, existing agreements and international law.

He urged Bangkok to take corrective measures to protect cultural heritage and maintain peace.
Pen Bona acknowledged challenges along parts of the frontier affecting armed forces and displaced civilians, but said efforts had been made to ensure those impacted could still join the celebrations.

Senate president Hun Sen separately criticised “extremist opposition groups,” questioning whether more than 17 million citizens should face disruption.

He asked if markets, banks, factories, farms and schools should be closed, accusing the groups of seeking to paralyse Cambodia’s socio-economic system. He said nationwide participation in the holiday showed public rejection of those calls.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts reiterated a formal protest over what it described as Thailand’s illegal military presence at cultural heritage sites including Prasat Ta Moan Thom, Prasat Ta Krabey and Prasat Khnar.

It voiced concern over reported infrastructure works such as road construction and statue installation, saying they created “facts on the ground” and violated Cambodia’s sovereignty. The ministry also condemned public visits organised at the sites as an unlawful assertion of control.