SIEM REAP: Over the next two weeks, Cambodians will recognize the value of their heritage and how it continues to benefit them to this day. Meanwhile, international tourists will have the honor to experience just what makes Cambodia special. The 2023 Angkor Remembrance Event will feature traditional religious ceremonies and various forms of performing arts and exhibitions for the public to learn about Khmer history and Cambodia’s present day success.

Deputy Director General of APSARA Authority, Long Kosal, said that event will be held for 10 days from December 7-16 with religious ceremonies, exhibitions and performances of ancient art at night. He said that in the coming days, visitors to Angkor will be able to see works of art that are inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage List such as shadow puppets and Yike theater. Additionally, a parade of more than 1,250 students will march under the slogans "Thanks Angkor" and "Thanks Peace". All the programs will be open to the public free of charge.

The ceremony will officially open on the morning of December 7 with a prayer service presided over by First Lady Pich Chanmony and Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona, along with local leaders and representatives from the government and partner organizations.

This is the third year that the APSARA Authority has organized the event to commemorate Angkor and all the kings and ancestors who built and maintained the temples. It coincides with Angkor’s inscription on the World Heritage List, making it the first UNESCO recognized site in the Kingdom in 1992.