Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and other relevant authorities to develop architectural guidelines for the Angkor Archaeological Park to preserve the Khmer cultural identity.
Speaking at the 2024 annual meeting of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction on Tuesday, November 26, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining the area’s Khmer essence.
“In alignment with the needs of the local population, the Angkor Archaeological Park must retain its Khmer identity,” he stated. “Construction within the 400-square-kilometer heritage zone should reflect this identity. Alternative architectural styles can be pursued outside this area, but within the park, the cultural essence must be preserved.”
The Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and the Boards of Architects and Engineers to define a cohesive architectural style for villages in the Angkor area, establishing guidelines that would shape the region for the next 50 years. These boards will play a vital role in ensuring that exterior designs reflect Khmer cultural values and heritage.
He further stressed the importance of harmonizing modernization with traditional Khmer architecture in the vicinity of Angkor Archaeological Park. While welcoming development, he urged for careful management of heritage areas to avoid imitating foreign cityscapes. “Modernization should reflect Khmer values and styles,” he added.
Angkor Archaeological Park spans 401 square kilometers, encompassing 112 geographical locations, including 21 villages, 21 communes, and five districts in Siem Reap province. The population within the park, recorded at approximately 22,000 in 1993, is expected to rise significantly by 2024.
This initiative aims to preserve the unique identity of the park while balancing development and cultural conservation.
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