Phnom penh: His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, has made a poignant appeal to the nation to dedicate the merits of this year’s Kan Ben and Pchum Ben Festivals to the national heroes who sacrificed their lives defending the country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the King released a Royal Message emphasizing that the festival, a significant national tradition, presents a profound opportunity for all Cambodians to collectively honor the souls of fallen patriots who bravely resisted aggressors. The King expressed his hopes that these spirits may be guided to a peaceful realm. In his message, he stated, “I sincerely rejoice with the entire Cambodian nation in celebrating this 15-day Kan Ben and Pchum Ben Festivals,” highlighting the festival’s role in reinforcing national unity, preserving cultural values, and safeguarding Khmer Buddhist traditions.
His Majesty underscored that Pchum Ben is a time for Cambodian families to reunite at ancestral homes and pagodas, perform acts of merit, and express gratitude to their benefactors and departed relatives. This year’s festival, in particular, has been noted as a chance to honor the heroic soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defense of the motherland. The 2025 Pchum Ben Festival, observed from September 08 to 22, aims to strengthen harmony, celebrate agricultural harvests, support Buddhist monks during the Vossa retreat, and dedicate merits to ancestors.
In alignment with Buddhist tradition, the King also encouraged pagodas to distribute any surplus offerings to vulnerable groups, including displaced families, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and orphans. The Ministry of Cults and Religion has been directed to collaborate with chief monks and pagoda committees to ensure the festival is observed properly, including organizing memorial services for fallen soldiers, ancestors, and compatriots who died for the nation.