Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 7 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet stated that to be able to safeguard and promote the nation's culture, it is imperative that the youth have a deep understanding and knowledge of their arts and culture.
The premier addressed the 26th Cambodian National Culture Day, held on Thursday (Mar. 7) at Diamond Island Convention and Exhibition Centre.
"The expression 'respect for national culture' may be easily uttered, but genuine respect requires a deep knowledge and understanding of the arts, culture and all forms of participation to protect and promote our national culture,” Samdech Thipadei underlined.
In this context, the premier underscored the significance of outreach and awareness-raising initiatives in amplifying opportunities for participation. He added that such efforts not only enhance the appeal to the general public, particularly the youth but also contribute to fostering a heightened respect for both tangible and intangible aspects of the nation's culture.
Samdech Thipadei further explained that the Khmer proverb “The bamboo shoot grows up to be bamboo,” a timeless and universally applicable principle, remains a strategic cornerstone for the Royal Government across all legislative terms. In the 7th legislature of the National Assembly, the first strategic pentagon of the Pentagonal Strategy-Phase 1 clearly defines an unwavering commitment to human resource development as a critical prerequisite for fostering productivity, economic diversification, and sustainable socio-economic development.
On the occasion, Premier Hun Manet underscored that the arts and culture sector stands among the top priorities. It is recognized as crucial for safeguarding national identity and nurturing the well-being of the people. He also reiterated the imperative of youth engagement in the arts and culture, not only for socio-economic benefits but also to mitigate the influence of external cultures that could potentially compromise the authenticity of our own cultural heritage.
The premier pointed out that a lack of understanding can lead to activities that negatively impact national arts and culture. To address this, he highlighted the crucial need for collaborative efforts by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, alongside artists, to persist in creating educational and engaging texts as well as short films. Such initiatives are vital to enlighten and captivate the younger generation, fostering a deeper appreciation and awareness of our cultural heritage.
=FRESH NEWS
