In a recent meeting that underscored the Cambodian government’s commitment to the nation’s cultural and artistic heritage, Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen endorsed the restructuring and fresh leadership of the Khmer Artists Association. This new phase was marked by the welcoming of Neak Oknha Mao Chamnan as the newly-elected President of the Association during a courtesy call on Tuesday morning, May 28, at the Senate.
Highlighting the challenge of not only forming but sustaining such an association, Samdech Techo expressed optimism in the Association’s future to navigate past obstacles through enhanced management strategies and a focus on boosting the morale of artists. The meeting served as an opportunity to reflect on the resurgence of Cambodian arts since the pivotal date of January 7, 1979, and the comprehensive efforts directed towards developing human resources in a peaceful Cambodia consolidated through win-win politics since 1998.
In a rapidly changing technological environment, Samdech Techo raised concerns over the preservation of intellectual property and the looming challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in replacing human labor. He stressed the paramount importance of maintaining Cambodian cultural identity, which has survived and thrived through periods of colonial rule and the devastating Khmer Rouge era, to the present day. The role of monasteries, palaces, and the community in safeguarding the rich cultural tapestry of Cambodia was also highlighted.
With the start of a new mandate, the Khmer Artists Association is perceived not merely as an aid organization but as a pivotal entity contributing to the nation’s unity, strengthening, and effective leadership. This renewed vision includes a focus on training young artists and ensuring their seamless integration and success in the cultural field post-graduation, thus fostering a sustainable cycle of knowledge and skill transmission.
Samdech Techo recommended the establishment of short training programs aimed at enhancing skills and professional ethics among artists. Furthermore, the need for a stringent assessment and criteria establishment was underscored, requiring collaboration between the association and the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, to preserve the dignity and value of artists in society.
The Senate President called on the Ministry of Culture to document the evolution of Khmer clothing styles to maintain a balance between conservation and innovation. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of legal frameworks and suggested local media’s involvement in promoting the association’s activities through new platforms such as YouTube and TikTok.
In a significant gesture of support, Samdech Techo pledged an annual contribution of USD 100,000 for five years starting from 2024 to aid the association’s endeavors.
Concluding his address, Samdech Techo conveyed his best wishes for the health and prosperity of Neak Oknha Mao Chamnan and the new board of directors, marking a hopeful outlook for the future of Cambodia’s cultural heritage and the arts community under this new leadership direction.
Source: Fresh News
