Cambodian anthropologist Dr Ang Choulean is set to receive the esteemed ‘Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon’ from the Embassy of Japan on Friday. The Japanese government announced its highest commendation for Dr Choulean, professor of historical anthropology at the Royal University of Fine Arts, last year. This award acknowledges his significant contributions to promoting academic exchanges and mutual understanding between Japan and the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Dr Choulean was one of the recipients of the 2022 Spring Conferment of Decorations, announced by the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan on April 29 last year. In a recent telephone interview with Khmer Times, he expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for recognizing his efforts. He stated that although he did not do much for Japan, his work to improve Khmer cultural and archaeological studies was noted by the Japanese government.
The Embassy of Japan will organize a ceremony to award the medal to Dr Choulean on Friday. Reflecting on this honor, he said, “I am really happy to receive this medal from the Japanese government. This is the second time the Japanese government is honoring me. Previously, I was granted the Fukuoka Grand Prize in 2011.” Dr Choulean further added that the ‘Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon’ serves as motivation for him to work even harder and appreciate the Japanese people and government.
A press release from the Japanese Embassy to Cambodia highlighted Dr Choulean’s support for Japan’s contribution to the conservation and restoration of archaeological sites. By cooperating with Japanese researchers and relevant institutions, he facilitated the smooth operation of projects and helped enhance Japan’s presence.
These prestigious decorations are conferred to foreign nationals who have significantly contributed to promoting friendly relations and mutual understanding with Japan. In addition to his accomplishments in anthropology, Dr Ang Choulean is an accomplished author, having penned numerous academic papers and books. Among his notable works is the ethnographic essay, Food and Cuisine in the Angkor Era (La cuisine d’Angkor, 2020).
