Deadly Collision Claims 67 Lives in U.S. Air Disaster | At Least 30 Dead and Many Injured in Stampede at Maha Kumbh Mela in India | Pich Piseth Summoned by Department of Anti-Technology Crime | Future of USAID Uncertain as Trump Administration Considers Merging Agency with State Department | National Road 5 Final Section (Serei Sophon-Poipet) Achieves 29% Progress | Prime Minister Hun Manet: “No Plans to Change Ministers” Amidst Rumors | PM Hun Manet Charts Cambodia’s Digital Future, Calls for Stronger Innovation and Governance | Cambodia's Future Leaders Celebrated as Prime Minister Hun Manet Speaks at Asia-Europe University Graduation | Prime Minister Hun Sen awards diplomas to 2,551 Asia-Europe University graduates, including 1,169 women. The ceremony includes degrees in associate, bachelor, master, doctorate, and honorary doctorate levels. A total of 69 scholarship recipients from Samdech Techo and Samdech Kittipritbandit among the graduates. Asia-Europe University has contributed to national development by training skilled human resources for many years. Oknha Ly Khunthai highlights the university's growth since its recognition in 2002 and its establishment in 2005. As of December 2024, the university employed 485 staff and enrolled 8,881 students in various programs. Asia-Europe University offers diverse faculties and numerous degree programs, enhancing educational opportunities. The institution is committed to digital innovation and modern educational practices, including AI and cloud computing. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasizes skill development, announcing over $20 million for modern medical equipment.Prime Minister Hun Manet urges the Ministry of Labor to support skilled workers in obtaining bachelor's degrees and enhancing youth skills. Prime Minister Hun Manet directs Ministry of Labor to expand job opportunities for professionals in Cambodia. The Prime Minister emphasizes the role of teachers as leaders and ethical guides for students. Amid discussions about septic tank installation, the Prime Minister instructs authorities to prioritize citizen requests. Hun Manet mandates road construction companies to install septic tanks upon completion of projects. The Prime Minister addresses criticism of the textbook “Khmer and the Journey to Prosperity,” defending its educational value. Hun Manet clarifies that the supplementary textbook presents factual historical content from Cambodia’s socialist era to the present. The Prime Minister emphasizes that the book aims to preserve Cambodia’s history for future generations. Hun Manet calls on citizens and students to research carefully before sharing information on social media. The Prime Minister warns against spreading false information that can harm society. |
Deadly Collision Claims 67 Lives in U.S. Air Disaster | At Least 30 Dead and Many Injured in Stampede at Maha Kumbh Mela in India | Pich Piseth Summoned by Department of Anti-Technology Crime | Future of USAID Uncertain as Trump Administration Considers Merging Agency with State Department | National Road 5 Final Section (Serei Sophon-Poipet) Achieves 29% Progress | Prime Minister Hun Manet: “No Plans to Change Ministers” Amidst Rumors | PM Hun Manet Charts Cambodia’s Digital Future, Calls for Stronger Innovation and Governance | Cambodia's Future Leaders Celebrated as Prime Minister Hun Manet Speaks at Asia-Europe University Graduation | Prime Minister Hun Sen awards diplomas to 2,551 Asia-Europe University graduates, including 1,169 women. The ceremony includes degrees in associate, bachelor, master, doctorate, and honorary doctorate levels. A total of 69 scholarship recipients from Samdech Techo and Samdech Kittipritbandit among the graduates. Asia-Europe University has contributed to national development by training skilled human resources for many years. Oknha Ly Khunthai highlights the university's growth since its recognition in 2002 and its establishment in 2005. As of December 2024, the university employed 485 staff and enrolled 8,881 students in various programs. Asia-Europe University offers diverse faculties and numerous degree programs, enhancing educational opportunities. The institution is committed to digital innovation and modern educational practices, including AI and cloud computing. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasizes skill development, announcing over $20 million for modern medical equipment.Prime Minister Hun Manet urges the Ministry of Labor to support skilled workers in obtaining bachelor's degrees and enhancing youth skills. Prime Minister Hun Manet directs Ministry of Labor to expand job opportunities for professionals in Cambodia. The Prime Minister emphasizes the role of teachers as leaders and ethical guides for students. Amid discussions about septic tank installation, the Prime Minister instructs authorities to prioritize citizen requests. Hun Manet mandates road construction companies to install septic tanks upon completion of projects. The Prime Minister addresses criticism of the textbook “Khmer and the Journey to Prosperity,” defending its educational value. Hun Manet clarifies that the supplementary textbook presents factual historical content from Cambodia’s socialist era to the present. The Prime Minister emphasizes that the book aims to preserve Cambodia’s history for future generations. Hun Manet calls on citizens and students to research carefully before sharing information on social media. The Prime Minister warns against spreading false information that can harm society. |

Preah Vihear: A Soaring Legacy Carved in Stone

PHNOM PENH, May 17, 2024 — High atop the precipice of the Dângrêk Mountains, overlooking a tapestry of emerald green jungles, lies Preah Vihear Temple. Bathed in the golden hues of sunrise, its sandstone towers pierce the sky, a silent testament to the artistic brilliance and unwavering faith of the Khmer Empire.

HISTORICAL BEGINNINGS:

The history of Preah Vihear Temple dates back to the 9th century during the reign of Khmer King Yasovarman I (889-900). Yasovarman I, known for his contributions to the Angkorian civilization, initiated the construction of this temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Initially serving as a mountain sanctuary and a place of spiritual refuge, the temple was nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty. As Cambodia experienced spiritual development and increased political prestige, the temple symbolized these advancements, becoming a focal point of worship and cultural significance.

ARCHITECTURAL EVOLUTION:

Over the course of 300 years, subsequent kings, particularly Suryavarman II (1113-1150), continued construction, transforming the modest sanctuary into a sprawling architectural marvel. The architectural style of Preah Vihear is a unique blend of influences. The temple complex cascades down the cliff face in a series of sandstone tiers, each intricately carved with scenes from Hindu mythology and depictions of daily life in the Khmer Empire. The meticulous in situ carvings, a hallmark of Khmer artistry, showcase the exceptional skills of the stoneworkers.

STRATEGIC AND CULTURAL IMPORTANCE:

Preah Vihear Temple's location on the Dângrêk Mountains provided it with strategic significance. The temple offers sweeping views of the surrounding plains, making it not only a spiritual haven but also a vantage point of considerable military importance throughout history. Its commanding position atop a cliff allowed it to be both a place of worship and a fortress.

The temple's strategic importance continued into the 20th century. Under the Franco-Siamese Treaties of 1904 and 1907, the frontier line between Cambodia and Thailand was demarcated along the Dângrêk Mountains. However, the exact ownership of Preah Vihear Temple remained a contentious issue. In 1962, the International Court of Justice at The Hague ruled in favor of Cambodia, confirming that the temple was situated within Cambodian territory. This decision was based on the historical use and administrative records, which showed that the temple had been maintained by Cambodia.

Cultural Heritage and Modern-Day Significance

Today, Preah Vihear Temple stands not only as a magnificent architectural achievement but also as a symbol of Cambodian resilience. In 2008, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further solidifying its place as a cultural treasure of global significance. Its intricate carvings and statues continue to draw admiration from scholars, historians, and tourists alike. The temple complex consists of a series of sanctuaries linked by a system of pavements and staircases over an 800-meter-long axis, illustrating the architectural ingenuity of the Khmer Empire.

A PILGRIMAGE THROUGH HISTORY:

A visit to Preah Vihear is a journey through time. Visitors embark on a steep climb, ascending a long causeway flanked by sculpted guardian figures. Each of the five levels, or "Prasats," offers a breathtaking vista of the surrounding landscape. The first level, Prasat Baksei Chamkrong, features a series of impressive baray (reservoirs). The second level, Prasat Mebon, houses the Hall of the 1,000 Lingas (phallus symbols), a testament to Shiva's fertility and creative power.

As you ascend further, the artistry becomes progressively more elaborate. The third level, Prasat Srei, boasts exquisite lintels and pediments depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics. The fourth level, Prasat Steung, features the Gopura, an imposing gateway adorned with meticulously carved statues of deities. Finally, the highest level, Prasat Preah Vihear, houses the central sanctuary, the heart of the temple complex. Here, visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding plains.

A LEGACY ENDURING:

Preah Vihear Temple stands as a powerful symbol of Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. It is a place of profound beauty, a testament to the enduring spirit of Khmer artistry, and a reminder of the deep connection between faith and nature. As the sun sets, casting long shadows across the temple complex, visitors are left with a sense of awe and wonder, forever captivated by the magic of Preah Vihear.



Related News