Khmer Pride Prevails

Today is a party day in Cambodia. As shown in the above pictures by AFP, Cambodians across the country are taking their joy to the streets. They are celebrating with pride the official inclusion of the majestic Preah Vihear temple onto the World Heritage List, announced live on private television station CTN at 3 a.m. last night.

This morning, large television screens were set up across Phnom Penh to live-broadcast a congratulatory message from Prime Minister Hun Sen, whose speech was welcome with cheers and fanfare. Across the city, public officials joined residents in impromptu celebrations. Monks in pagodas rang bells, as people went into the streets, shouting, clapping, singing and dancing to drums.

As if this whole day of celebration was far from enough, the Phnom Penh City Hall in collaboration with the Cambodian Television Network (CTN) also organized a big concert with a firework display near Wat Phnom this evening. The performance was attended by thousands of overjoyed Cambodians, including me myself. Please check back for pictures from the event shortly.

Again, bravo Cambodia! Bravo the Cambodian people! Bravo Preah Vihear temple!