Phnom Penh (FN), Sep. 26 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet expressed frustration that some Cambodians continue to share conflicting views on social media regarding the Gumball 3000 event, which took place in Cambodia and concluded on 16 September 2024.
The premier spoke on Thursday (Sep. 26) during a graduation of 3,530 students of the Royal University of Law and Economics (RULE) in Phnom Penh.
Samdech Thipadei called for an end to the controversy surrounding the Gumball 3000 event, which has lingered for over 10 days, as disagreements persist on social media. Some individuals, particularly those expressing concerns about the placement of cars in front of Angkor Wat, feel this was inappropriate in respect to previous generations of Cambodians.
Samdech Thipadei underscored, "No one is disrespecting our ancestors. Those who have concerns about the arrangements are entitled to their opinions, as they feel it may have been inappropriate. However, there’s no need to argue with one another. The Gumball 3000 lasted just two days, but in Cambodia, the controversy has dragged on for two weeks."
On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei also recounted the lead-up to the Gumball 3000 event in Cambodia. He explained that, months prior, during discussions with tourism professionals, they considered various events that could help promote Cambodia as a tourist destination. The Gumball 3000, which had gained significant public attention in Europe, was planned for the Asia-Pacific region this year. As a result, the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with other relevant ministries and the private sector, decided to bring the event to Cambodia to attract tourists.
“We were extremely cautious, and the organisers ensured that the event upheld the highest respect for our cultural heritage. We must appreciate the efforts made by all involved to promote Cambodia’s tourism, and there was no ill intent,” Samdech Thipadei affirmed.
Please note that the Gumball 3000 event, held from 15-16 September 2024, concluded successfully, with a warm and celebratory atmosphere. The event was well-managed with excellent security and order provided by the authorities and joint armed forces. Additionally, philanthropists raised approximately USD 300,000 to USD 400,000, which was donated to the Angkor Hospital for Children.
Founded in 1999 by British entrepreneur Maximillion Cooper, the Gumball 3000 has become a globally recognised event celebrating luxury, high-performance vehicles, and adventure travel.
=FRESH NEWS
