PHNOM PENH: This year's National Cultural Day on 3 March will be held under the same theme as last year: "Youth for National Culture."

This theme encourages Cambodians, both inside and outside the country, and especially young people, to participate in various activities to help preserve, promote and develop the national culture.

National Cultural Day is celebrated every year to commemorate the merits of the Cambodian people who sacrificed and created, preserved and protected, the rich cultural heritage of the country for future generations to enjoy.

The Royal Government considers Cambodia's cultural sector to be the soul of the country, representing national identity and national prestige, and the glue which holds society together as well as connects people from one community to another, one country to another, to bring about unity, peace and harmony.

Ahead of National Cultural Day, Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a circular on the organization of the 25th National Cultural Day which will be held on 3 March 2023. In it, he urged the people, especially youth, to continue striving to create new cultural works on the basis of national identity, and in order to promote the use of culture to contribute to the development of the national economy and reduce poverty.

He also urged for all to participate in the preservation and development of national culture, regardless of one's political tendencies, beliefs, religion or the color of one's skin. At the same time, he said it is necessary to raise awareness, the spirit of participation, and the transfer of knowledge, skills and techniques of arts and culture, in order to sustainably promote the preservation and development of national culture as well as the multicultural practices of indigenous communities in Cambodia.

In order for National Cultural Day to be held smoothly, the Prime Minister has requested that the relevant inter-ministerial institutions, schools, factories, public and private enterprises and pagodas jointly widely disseminate information about this day through the preparation of banners and slogans in key locations and through social media.

In addition, he requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to instruct all ambassadors, consuls and honorary consuls of Cambodia abroad, as well as the Cambodian community abroad, to participate in organizing programs to celebrate this cultural day.