Phnom Penh (FN), May 28 – Cambodian Senate President, Samdech Techo Hun Sen commended the Khmer Artists Association for its organization under the newly-elected President, Neak Oknha Mao Chamnan.
Samdech Techo Hun Sen received a courtesy call by the delegation of Khmer Artists Association led by President Mao Chamnan on Tuesday morning (May 28) at the Senate.
Samdech Techo underlined that while establishing an association is commendable, ensuring its sustainability poses challenges. In this new mandate, he expressed confidence that the association can overcome past difficulties through restructuring management and bolstering artist morale.
On the occasion, Samdech Techo also reflected on the revival of the arts since 7 January 1979, and the ongoing efforts in human resource development, particularly following Cambodia's attainment of complete peace through win-win politics. Since 1998, our country has transitioned to a new phase characterised by conservation and development.
Samdech Techo underscored, "We strive to preserve our cultural heritage while embracing innovation. In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, safeguarding intellectual property poses significant challenges. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which increasingly replaces human labour, presents a major future challenge."
"Cambodians have upheld our cultural identity. Monasteries and palaces stood as strongholds of cultural preservation during the French colonial era, and despite the devastation caused by the Khmer Rouge, we have revitalized our culture and art, reminiscent of a wedding celebration and so on. Safeguarding art and culture are our collective responsibility,” Samdech Techo further underscored.
Senate president added that at the onset of the new mandate, many artists recognised the association's strength, unity, and effective leadership structure, which has been instrumental in assisting them. He underlined that the Khmer Artists Association should not be solely viewed as a charitable organization.
Samdech Techo also recommended exploring avenues to enhance the long-term role of artists, including providing support in training young artists and aiding their job placement after graduation. The objective is to ensure that artists are adequately prepared to pass on their knowledge and skills to future generations. The association should organise brief training sessions on developing skills and strengthening professional ethics.
Samdech Techo advised reviewing the conditions necessary to uphold the value of the artists. The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts should assess and establish the criteria, which the association will then implement. He further underlined the interplay between socio-economic and cultural activities, noting the Ministry of Culture's role in establishing a robust legal framework for the association.
In addition, the Ministry of Culture should consider documenting Khmer clothing styles for each generation. New innovations should be permitted at a standardized level and must be registered to avoid confusion for future generations. This approach ensures both conservation and development.
In support of the association, Samdech Techo urged local media to dedicate a production team to promote its activities, including on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. Concurrently, he pledged to support the association through a contribution of USD 100,000 annually for five years starting from 2024.
Lastly, Samdech Techo extended his wishes for good health and success to Neak Oknha Mao Chamnan and the association's Board of Directors.
=FRESH NEWS
