Phnom Penh: The Cambodian Embassy in the United States has declared that it’s on the hunt for the people behind the infamous “Nam Vang” noodles. The product is apparently made in Vietnam but names itself after Phnom Penh and features Angkor Wat on its packaging.

At the same time, the Cambodian government is also stepping up its investigation into those temples in Thailand. The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts now has two investigations on its hands. One – a small packet of noodles. The other – a very large temple in Thailand.

Its “Sihanakorn Temple” in Borei Ram province looks an awful lot like Angkor Wat. It caused howls of protest on social media back in June. Just on Tuesday, the Culture Ministry said a team will be sent to Thailand to check on the temple. Despite assurances from Thailand that the site is not intended to be a replica of Cambodia’s famous landmark, the royal government is requesting a copy of its blueprints and more construction details.

On a much smaller scale but with equal weight are the Nam Vang noodles. The Ministry of Culture and the Cambodian Embassy in the United States are looking for the company or importer behind the brand being sold in Asian markets in the eastern US. “Nam Vang” in Vietnamese translates to “Phnom Penh” and the Apsara Authority has denied giving anyone permission to use Angkor Wat on a packet of noodles.

The Cambodian Embassy has reiterated that using the iconic logo without the permission of the competent authorities of Cambodia violates the provisions of Cambodian law as well as international treaties. Commerce Ministry spokesman, Seang Thai, says they are still searching for the manufacturer, although Covid-19 and current border restrictions are hampering the pace of the investigation.