A decades-old drama has resurfaced, sparking tension between Cambodia and Thailand. At the heart of the dispute is a replica of the ancient Angkor Wat temple, built in Thailand’s Buriram province. Cambodia’s Minister of Culture, Phuong Sakona, has strongly condemned the construction, calling it a blatant copy of their cultural heritage.
The minister’s statement came during a technical meeting of the International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Site of Angkor. The meeting, held in Siem Reap, aimed to discuss the preservation of Cambodia’s rich cultural history. However, the conversation took a turn when Sakona addressed the gathering, criticizing Thailand’s actions as a serious infringement on Cambodia’s national identity.
According to Sakona, the replica, known as Sihanukville, is an unacceptable imitation of the iconic Angkor Wat temple. The minister argued that such actions not only undermine the cultural significance of the original site but also violate international agreements. As a signatory to the 1972 UNESCO World Heritage Convention, Thailand is expected to respect and protect cultural heritage sites, including those of other nations.
The controversy has reignited a long-standing debate about cultural appropriation and the importance of preserving unique cultural identities. While some argue that replicas can serve as a tribute to the original, others see them as a threat to the authenticity and value of cultural heritage sites. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Thailand will respond to Cambodia’s concerns and whether a resolution can be reached.