Phnom penh: His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, has extended his congratulations on the occasion of the 8th Anniversary of the Inscription of Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk on the World Heritage List on July 8, 2017, by UNESCO.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the monarch expressed his sincere appreciation for the inscription, highlighting its significance as both a national treasure and a world heritage site. He emphasized that this recognition contributes to the care and preservation of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple, ensuring its sustainable maintenance within the Kingdom of Cambodia.
His Majesty conveyed his gratitude for the decision of His Majesty the Late King-Father, "PREAH BOROM RATANAK KAUDH," who prioritized the preservation of national cultural heritage during his lifetime. The King also extended his appreciation to the Cambodian people, under the leadership of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, and his successor, Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei HUN MANET, as the Head of the Royal Government.
The King stressed that this inscription marks a historic milestone for Cambodia, recognizing the cultural and historical legacy left by the Khmer ancestors for future generations to preserve. He also expressed deep thanks and support for the National Authority for Sambor Prei Kuk and the International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Sites of Angkor and Sambor Prei Kuk (ICC/ANGKOR-SAMBOR PREI KUK), led by co-chairs representing France and Japan.
Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also congratulated his compatriots on the listing, urging them to participate in preserving the ancient temples and emphasizing that safeguarding cultural heritage is a shared duty of all Cambodians.
Sambor Prei Kuk Temple, a notable group of Khmer ancient temples, was recognized as a World Heritage Site during the 41st session of the World Heritage Committee held in Krakow, Poland, on July 8, 2017. Located in Sambo village, Prasat Sambo district, Kampong Thom province, the site covers 3,000 hectares in the forest, approximately 30 kilometers from Kampong Thom provincial town.
Formerly known as 'Ishanapura,' the Sambor Prei Kuk Temple Zone served as the Khmer capital during the Chenla period. Built between the late 6th and 8th centuries during King Isanavarman's reign, the site is divided into three main groups: the Sambor Temple Group (Northern), the Central Temple Group (Prasat Tao), and the Southern Temple Group (Yeai Poan or Neak Poan Temple).