BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has examined the status of the Preah Vihear temple in a tour of the area that took place on November 7. They inspected damage caused by grenades during clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops, said Phay Siphan, Secretary of State at the Council of Ministers.
The Secretary of State said the move followed claims made by the Cambodian National Committee, in partnership with UNESCO officials that the statuary and staircase of the 11th century monument had been damaged by Thai grenades during clashes.
Siphan said that UNESCO will attempt to get a clear idea of the facts and to take action to prevent further damage in future. He said the damage had been caused by Thai rockets launched during the clashes on October 15.
“We will not press for financial recompense from the Thais because Preah Vihear temple is now World Heritage Property. But we want Thailand, who is also a member of UNESCO to cooperate with all parties to protect the priceless temple,” he said.
In order to create a protected zone around the World Heritage site, three signs that announce the site’s World Heritage status, under the protection of UNESCO and the international community have been posted. The precedent for these measures was set by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1953, said Siphan. He added that the new signs will demarcate the newly created protection zone to deter any future conflict in the area.
"We hope that after the World Heritage signs are posted at the Preah Vihear Temple, there will be no further shooting on the temple or in the protection zone,"
Hang Soth, Director General of Preah Vihear Authority, said he sent a report about the shooting to UNESCO on October 17. The report also included a request for protection of the temple. He noted that the temples dignity has been outraged with the addition of over 100 pockmarks where bullets and rocket rounds impacted the venerable site.
Teruo Jinnai, Representative of UNSECO in Cambodia, told the Cambodia Weekly that to preserve and protect Preah Vihear temple against damage in future, the Cambodian government should prepare a master plan detailing the temple project and send this document to UNESCO’s office in Cambodia. This will then be sent on for further consideration at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, where it will be reviewed prior to approval and financial support.
He said that UNESCO has funded many projects for the Cambodian government, such as repairing Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Prasat Banteay Srey and Traprumh temples in Siem Reap province.
According to Cambodian historical documents, Preah Vihear Temple is situated at the Cambodian-Thai border, atop the 625 meter-high Preah Vihear Mountain in Svay Chhrum village, Kantuot commune, Choam Ksan district. This is 108 kilometers north of Tbaeng Meanchey, the capital of Preah Vihear province. The temple is 800 meters long and 400 meters wide.
The temple is one of the most striking to have been built during the 600-year-long Khmer empire. It was mainly built over a 100-150 year period during the reigns of kings Suryavarman (1002-1050) and Suryavarman II (1113-1150). Its main architectural features are Khmer in origin but signs of earlier influences, particularly the Bantery Srei style are noticeable in the earlier buildings.
The Preah Vihear temple includes some superb carved friezes; one is of particular interest as it shows King Suryavarman II going about his devotions and presenting gifts of white parasols, gold bowls and elephants to his spiritual leader. This carved frieze is just one example of the outstanding carvings to be found at the temple.
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Saturday, November 8, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
Cambodia Needs More Lawyers
BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Cambodia faces a shortage of lawyers with the qualifications and experience necessary to uphold the Rule of Law, according to Ang Vong Wathana, Minister of Justice.
The Minister told the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview on October 27 that his ministry will continue to cooperate closely with the Bar Association of the Kingdom of Cambodia to train new lawyers to respond to the needs of people in Cambodia.
Due to progress, human resource development and increasing foreign investment, Cambodia currently needs more than 1,000 qualified lawyers, if the entire population is to have access to impartial justice, said the Minister.
Ky Tech, President of the Cambodian Bar Association, agreed with these figures, and the necessity to redress the imbalance.
Ky Tech, who has been practicing the law since 1998, has served the Cambodian Bar Association as President over two mandates. He said that currently there are 616 lawyers operating in Cambodia.
“Looking at Cambodian population statistics, the current number of lawyers is insufficient to meet the needs of our country. We are short of about 1,000 lawyers.” he said. He went on to say that the number of lawyers would probably suffice, given that currently recourse to the law is not seen as an effective way to settle disputes. However, this situation would change as development and investment assumed greater importance.
He also noted that each new generation of lawyers would conform to international standards in terms of training and qualification.
“Now, our Cambodian lawyers are stepping ahead and reaching international standards. They are very skillful, talented and can offer the same services as those of developed nations,” he told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone on October 28.
The President added, “I hope that they will perform their duties well to help the people and to strengthen the ‘Rule of Law’ in the Kingdom of Cambodia.”
Ang Eng Thong, Director of the Center for Legal Training and Professional Development said that since the establishment of the center in 2002, 280 lawyers have been trained, including 100 female lawyers. The Director said that for this study year, a total of 34 lawyers have graduated and will apply for further study with the establishment.
To enhance the qualifications of Cambodian lawyers, the lawyer center has invited visiting professors well-known in the United Sates, Canada, France and Japan for teaching said Eng Thong. He noted that the majority of the law courses were conducted in English so as to improve not only their legal knowledge but also their language abilities. His graduates are now working and serving as high officials in ministries, the National Assembly and the Senate of Cambodia.
Other lawyers have also found employment as law consultants for Non-Government Organization (NGOs), International Organizations (IOs), local and international companies in the Kingdom of Cambodia, according to Eng Thong.
Peung Yokheap, Executive Director of Legal Aid Cambodia (LAC), a local NGO established in 1995 that works to defend human rights, said that Cambodia really needs more lawyers to help the poorer sectors of the community.
“I have noted that most lawyers prefer to work with private companies in Phnom Penh and other developing areas because they can make good money for their families. Thus, we lack lawyers to help those who can’t afford legal fees,” she said.
Yokheap continued, “I think that to help disadvantaged people, the Bar Association should train more Cambodian lawyers to help them in future.”
She said that currently, LAC is working in ten provinces across the country, and has employed a total of 33 lawyers.
Khuon Son Muchhim, Attorney-At-Law with the Khmer Law Office & Associates, said he has been working as lawyer since 2002, working on more than 18 cases involving civil and criminal issues.
He said that most of his clients were business people, representatives from national and international NGOs who hire him to examine contractual issues or real estate documents to check and verify their legality.
“I think that the law is good work for me. It is busy work but I like it because I can earn more income for my family,” he told the Cambodia Weekly. He hinted that he could earn around $1,500 to $ 2,000 per month from his legal consultancy and services.
Cambodia faces a shortage of lawyers with the qualifications and experience necessary to uphold the Rule of Law, according to Ang Vong Wathana, Minister of Justice.
The Minister told the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview on October 27 that his ministry will continue to cooperate closely with the Bar Association of the Kingdom of Cambodia to train new lawyers to respond to the needs of people in Cambodia.
Due to progress, human resource development and increasing foreign investment, Cambodia currently needs more than 1,000 qualified lawyers, if the entire population is to have access to impartial justice, said the Minister.
Ky Tech, President of the Cambodian Bar Association, agreed with these figures, and the necessity to redress the imbalance.
Ky Tech, who has been practicing the law since 1998, has served the Cambodian Bar Association as President over two mandates. He said that currently there are 616 lawyers operating in Cambodia.
“Looking at Cambodian population statistics, the current number of lawyers is insufficient to meet the needs of our country. We are short of about 1,000 lawyers.” he said. He went on to say that the number of lawyers would probably suffice, given that currently recourse to the law is not seen as an effective way to settle disputes. However, this situation would change as development and investment assumed greater importance.
He also noted that each new generation of lawyers would conform to international standards in terms of training and qualification.
“Now, our Cambodian lawyers are stepping ahead and reaching international standards. They are very skillful, talented and can offer the same services as those of developed nations,” he told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone on October 28.
The President added, “I hope that they will perform their duties well to help the people and to strengthen the ‘Rule of Law’ in the Kingdom of Cambodia.”
Ang Eng Thong, Director of the Center for Legal Training and Professional Development said that since the establishment of the center in 2002, 280 lawyers have been trained, including 100 female lawyers. The Director said that for this study year, a total of 34 lawyers have graduated and will apply for further study with the establishment.
To enhance the qualifications of Cambodian lawyers, the lawyer center has invited visiting professors well-known in the United Sates, Canada, France and Japan for teaching said Eng Thong. He noted that the majority of the law courses were conducted in English so as to improve not only their legal knowledge but also their language abilities. His graduates are now working and serving as high officials in ministries, the National Assembly and the Senate of Cambodia.
Other lawyers have also found employment as law consultants for Non-Government Organization (NGOs), International Organizations (IOs), local and international companies in the Kingdom of Cambodia, according to Eng Thong.
Peung Yokheap, Executive Director of Legal Aid Cambodia (LAC), a local NGO established in 1995 that works to defend human rights, said that Cambodia really needs more lawyers to help the poorer sectors of the community.
“I have noted that most lawyers prefer to work with private companies in Phnom Penh and other developing areas because they can make good money for their families. Thus, we lack lawyers to help those who can’t afford legal fees,” she said.
Yokheap continued, “I think that to help disadvantaged people, the Bar Association should train more Cambodian lawyers to help them in future.”
She said that currently, LAC is working in ten provinces across the country, and has employed a total of 33 lawyers.
Khuon Son Muchhim, Attorney-At-Law with the Khmer Law Office & Associates, said he has been working as lawyer since 2002, working on more than 18 cases involving civil and criminal issues.
He said that most of his clients were business people, representatives from national and international NGOs who hire him to examine contractual issues or real estate documents to check and verify their legality.
“I think that the law is good work for me. It is busy work but I like it because I can earn more income for my family,” he told the Cambodia Weekly. He hinted that he could earn around $1,500 to $ 2,000 per month from his legal consultancy and services.
Cambodia Thailand Plan Border Talks for November 10
By BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Cambodian and Thai officials will conduct another meeting to discuss the border conflict in order to avoid armed confrontation, according to Koy Kuong, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Kuong said the five-day official meeting would be arranged for 10-14 November. The Cambodia-Thai Joint Commission on Demarcation of the Land Boundary will continue to discuss measures to resolve the dispute.
“The meeting will be arranged by the Thai side, and will be held in Thailand,” Kuong told the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview on October 30. He continued, “I think that it marks a new phase of negotiations that will discuss solutions to both immediate and long-term problems. I hope that the upcoming meeting in Thailand will provide a positive result for both countries.”
Kuong said that for the Cambodian side, the meeting would be led by His Excellency Var Kimhong, Chairman of the National Committee for the Resolution of Border Disputes in the Council of Ministers.
Phay Siphan, Secretary of State and spokesman for the Council of Ministers, welcomed the go-ahead, as it demonstrated commitment to solve the border issue between the two sides.
“We welcome the official participation of the Thai side in the upcoming meeting. Our Cambodian side has made no changes to the position as indicated by the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two countries in 2000.”
He said that the meeting would focus on a border survey and demarcation based on the 2000 MoU and set up a temporary coordination working group to consider the disputed border areas. He added that the results of the assessment would be forwarded to a session of the Joint Border Commission.
Siphan said relations between Cambodia and Thailand had experienced difficulties since July when Preah Vihear was awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.
He said that several rounds of bilateral talks between the two countries have failed to bring a full withdrawal of troops from their positions on the border. He added that the military standoff began July 15, when Thai troops occupied Keo Sikha Kirisvara pagoda located near the Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear Province.
The Chairman said that the border talks would be based on the convention created between Siam and France in 1907 and on Siamese and Cambodian-held Indochina maps. He added that on October 29, Thai lawmakers had approved negotiations over the disputed borders at the root of the military standoff.
Approval of negotiations will pave the way for the next meeting, scheduled for November 10 between the two countries, said Kimhong.
Cambodian and Thai officials will conduct another meeting to discuss the border conflict in order to avoid armed confrontation, according to Koy Kuong, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Kuong said the five-day official meeting would be arranged for 10-14 November. The Cambodia-Thai Joint Commission on Demarcation of the Land Boundary will continue to discuss measures to resolve the dispute.
“The meeting will be arranged by the Thai side, and will be held in Thailand,” Kuong told the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview on October 30. He continued, “I think that it marks a new phase of negotiations that will discuss solutions to both immediate and long-term problems. I hope that the upcoming meeting in Thailand will provide a positive result for both countries.”
Kuong said that for the Cambodian side, the meeting would be led by His Excellency Var Kimhong, Chairman of the National Committee for the Resolution of Border Disputes in the Council of Ministers.
Phay Siphan, Secretary of State and spokesman for the Council of Ministers, welcomed the go-ahead, as it demonstrated commitment to solve the border issue between the two sides.
“We welcome the official participation of the Thai side in the upcoming meeting. Our Cambodian side has made no changes to the position as indicated by the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two countries in 2000.”
He said that the meeting would focus on a border survey and demarcation based on the 2000 MoU and set up a temporary coordination working group to consider the disputed border areas. He added that the results of the assessment would be forwarded to a session of the Joint Border Commission.
Siphan said relations between Cambodia and Thailand had experienced difficulties since July when Preah Vihear was awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.
He said that several rounds of bilateral talks between the two countries have failed to bring a full withdrawal of troops from their positions on the border. He added that the military standoff began July 15, when Thai troops occupied Keo Sikha Kirisvara pagoda located near the Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear Province.
The Chairman said that the border talks would be based on the convention created between Siam and France in 1907 and on Siamese and Cambodian-held Indochina maps. He added that on October 29, Thai lawmakers had approved negotiations over the disputed borders at the root of the military standoff.
Approval of negotiations will pave the way for the next meeting, scheduled for November 10 between the two countries, said Kimhong.
Cambodia Thailand Plan Border Talks for November 10
By BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Cambodian and Thai officials will conduct another meeting to discuss the border conflict in order to avoid armed confrontation, according to Koy Kuong, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Kuong said the five-day official meeting would be arranged for 10-14 November. The Cambodia-Thai Joint Commission on Demarcation of the Land Boundary will continue to discuss measures to resolve the dispute.
“The meeting will be arranged by the Thai side, and will be held in Thailand,” Kuong told the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview on October 30. He continued, “I think that it marks a new phase of negotiations that will discuss solutions to both immediate and long-term problems. I hope that the upcoming meeting in Thailand will provide a positive result for both countries.”
Kuong said that for the Cambodian side, the meeting would be led by His Excellency Var Kimhong, Chairman of the National Committee for the Resolution of Border Disputes in the Council of Ministers.
Phay Siphan, Secretary of State and spokesman for the Council of Ministers, welcomed the go-ahead, as it demonstrated commitment to solve the border issue between the two sides.
“We welcome the official participation of the Thai side in the upcoming meeting. Our Cambodian side has made no changes to the position as indicated by the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two countries in 2000.”
He said that the meeting would focus on a border survey and demarcation based on the 2000 MoU and set up a temporary coordination working group to consider the disputed border areas. He added that the results of the assessment would be forwarded to a session of the Joint Border Commission.
Siphan said relations between Cambodia and Thailand had experienced difficulties since July when Preah Vihear was awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.
He said that several rounds of bilateral talks between the two countries have failed to bring a full withdrawal of troops from their positions on the border. He added that the military standoff began July 15, when Thai troops occupied Keo Sikha Kirisvara pagoda located near the Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear Province.
The Chairman said that the border talks would be based on the convention created between Siam and France in 1907 and on Siamese and Cambodian-held Indochina maps. He added that on October 29, Thai lawmakers had approved negotiations over the disputed borders at the root of the military standoff.
Approval of negotiations will pave the way for the next meeting, scheduled for November 10 between the two countries, said Kimhong.
Cambodian and Thai officials will conduct another meeting to discuss the border conflict in order to avoid armed confrontation, according to Koy Kuong, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Kuong said the five-day official meeting would be arranged for 10-14 November. The Cambodia-Thai Joint Commission on Demarcation of the Land Boundary will continue to discuss measures to resolve the dispute.
“The meeting will be arranged by the Thai side, and will be held in Thailand,” Kuong told the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview on October 30. He continued, “I think that it marks a new phase of negotiations that will discuss solutions to both immediate and long-term problems. I hope that the upcoming meeting in Thailand will provide a positive result for both countries.”
Kuong said that for the Cambodian side, the meeting would be led by His Excellency Var Kimhong, Chairman of the National Committee for the Resolution of Border Disputes in the Council of Ministers.
Phay Siphan, Secretary of State and spokesman for the Council of Ministers, welcomed the go-ahead, as it demonstrated commitment to solve the border issue between the two sides.
“We welcome the official participation of the Thai side in the upcoming meeting. Our Cambodian side has made no changes to the position as indicated by the spirit of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the two countries in 2000.”
He said that the meeting would focus on a border survey and demarcation based on the 2000 MoU and set up a temporary coordination working group to consider the disputed border areas. He added that the results of the assessment would be forwarded to a session of the Joint Border Commission.
Siphan said relations between Cambodia and Thailand had experienced difficulties since July when Preah Vihear was awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO.
He said that several rounds of bilateral talks between the two countries have failed to bring a full withdrawal of troops from their positions on the border. He added that the military standoff began July 15, when Thai troops occupied Keo Sikha Kirisvara pagoda located near the Preah Vihear temple, in Preah Vihear Province.
The Chairman said that the border talks would be based on the convention created between Siam and France in 1907 and on Siamese and Cambodian-held Indochina maps. He added that on October 29, Thai lawmakers had approved negotiations over the disputed borders at the root of the military standoff.
Approval of negotiations will pave the way for the next meeting, scheduled for November 10 between the two countries, said Kimhong.
The NED Conference being held in Phnom Penh
BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Over 200 researchers, professors, lecturers and students from 10 universities and institutes in Cambodia have attended the National Education Development Conference (NED Conference) at the Royal University of Phnom Penh II.
The Conference was organized by the Royal Academy of Cambodia (RAC) and was jointly supported by the Council of Ministers of Cambodia and UNESCO in Cambodia.
Dr. Sorn Samnang, President of RAC, said that this marks the third occasion that RAC has organized this important conference in Cambodia.
Dr. Samnang said that the main purpose of the NED Conference was to gather Cambodian researchers, lecturers, professors and students together to discuss issues related to the quality of basic education and the development of a sustainable education policy for Cambodia.
The NED Conference is organized to coordinate the establishment of networks, relations and to discuss changes and reintegration among partners. The Conference will also examine ways to meet development goals through the improvement of teaching and basic education, according to Samnang.
The President emphasized that according to research for conducted earlier this year, higher education remains an engine for economic development, nation–building, human capital development and individual advancement.
He said that the governments in many countries are funding public university systems while encouraging the development of private higher education establishments to meet growing demand.
Neak Sary, a Researcher, said that to promote “Sustainable Education Development” in Cambodia, there must be four areas of focus - social development, environmental development, cultural development and economic development.
He continued that to ensure sustainable development in higher education, they also have to focus on improvement of overall quality, improvement of research facilities, and establishing University-Industry Collaboration and Partnership programs with the private sector.
“I think that now Cambodia has sufficient human resource capital to develop the country,” he said. “We are well on the way to building a sustainable society.”
Teruo Jinnai, UNESCO representative in Cambodia, said that UNESCO has been designed as a lead agency for the promotion of education. In this role, UNESCO is responsible for coordinating the efforts of governments and educators to integrate sustainable development into educational systems at all levels, both formal and informal.
He said that UNESCO is also responsible for developing partnerships with the private sector, civil society organizations and the media to promote sustainable development for the widest possible audience.
“The vision of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) encompasses a world where everyone has the opportunity to benefit from education and learn the values, behaviors, and lifestyles required for a sustainable future and for positive societal transformation,” he said.
He continued, “As this vision guides us in pursuing our goals, we are reminded of the vastness of the task ahead of us. Therefore, it is essential that we recognize the interrelation of human needs and protection for the natural environment. Our aims are not completely new although they have only recently been endorsed. We are building on the continuous efforts of decades past, with a view to creating a brighter future.”
He said, “We are delighted that Cambodia has moved towards building a sustainable society. However, we are also aware of the challenges ahead. We expect that with the establishment of the National Education for Sustainable Development (NESD) Steering committee, the vision and mission will become ever clearer in their inclusiveness.
Im Sethy, Minister of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS), gave his full support to the NED conference.
The Minister said that MoEYS’s had been moving towards building a sustainable education development policy. He added that the conference would help the ministry further these intentions.
On 24th October 2008, the Accreditation Committee of Cambodia (ACC), a wing of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport evaluated 76 of Cambodia’s 104 higher education centers. Three of these failed to make the grade.
Over 200 researchers, professors, lecturers and students from 10 universities and institutes in Cambodia have attended the National Education Development Conference (NED Conference) at the Royal University of Phnom Penh II.
The Conference was organized by the Royal Academy of Cambodia (RAC) and was jointly supported by the Council of Ministers of Cambodia and UNESCO in Cambodia.
Dr. Sorn Samnang, President of RAC, said that this marks the third occasion that RAC has organized this important conference in Cambodia.
Dr. Samnang said that the main purpose of the NED Conference was to gather Cambodian researchers, lecturers, professors and students together to discuss issues related to the quality of basic education and the development of a sustainable education policy for Cambodia.
The NED Conference is organized to coordinate the establishment of networks, relations and to discuss changes and reintegration among partners. The Conference will also examine ways to meet development goals through the improvement of teaching and basic education, according to Samnang.
The President emphasized that according to research for conducted earlier this year, higher education remains an engine for economic development, nation–building, human capital development and individual advancement.
He said that the governments in many countries are funding public university systems while encouraging the development of private higher education establishments to meet growing demand.
Neak Sary, a Researcher, said that to promote “Sustainable Education Development” in Cambodia, there must be four areas of focus - social development, environmental development, cultural development and economic development.
He continued that to ensure sustainable development in higher education, they also have to focus on improvement of overall quality, improvement of research facilities, and establishing University-Industry Collaboration and Partnership programs with the private sector.
“I think that now Cambodia has sufficient human resource capital to develop the country,” he said. “We are well on the way to building a sustainable society.”
Teruo Jinnai, UNESCO representative in Cambodia, said that UNESCO has been designed as a lead agency for the promotion of education. In this role, UNESCO is responsible for coordinating the efforts of governments and educators to integrate sustainable development into educational systems at all levels, both formal and informal.
He said that UNESCO is also responsible for developing partnerships with the private sector, civil society organizations and the media to promote sustainable development for the widest possible audience.
“The vision of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) encompasses a world where everyone has the opportunity to benefit from education and learn the values, behaviors, and lifestyles required for a sustainable future and for positive societal transformation,” he said.
He continued, “As this vision guides us in pursuing our goals, we are reminded of the vastness of the task ahead of us. Therefore, it is essential that we recognize the interrelation of human needs and protection for the natural environment. Our aims are not completely new although they have only recently been endorsed. We are building on the continuous efforts of decades past, with a view to creating a brighter future.”
He said, “We are delighted that Cambodia has moved towards building a sustainable society. However, we are also aware of the challenges ahead. We expect that with the establishment of the National Education for Sustainable Development (NESD) Steering committee, the vision and mission will become ever clearer in their inclusiveness.
Im Sethy, Minister of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS), gave his full support to the NED conference.
The Minister said that MoEYS’s had been moving towards building a sustainable education development policy. He added that the conference would help the ministry further these intentions.
On 24th October 2008, the Accreditation Committee of Cambodia (ACC), a wing of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport evaluated 76 of Cambodia’s 104 higher education centers. Three of these failed to make the grade.
Cambodia Selects Traditional Fighters in Preparation for International Competition
BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
278 traditional boxers (this martial art is also known as “Boxkator”) including 15 female boxers from 11 of the nation’s Boxkator boxing clubs and associations have attended the Worldwide National Boxkator Competitions. These fights were held over five days- 27th to 31st October 2008 - at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh and were organized by the Cambodian Boxkator Federation (CBF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS).
Hok Chheang Kim, Secretary General of CBF noted that this year’s competitions mark the third opportunity for the best of Cambodia’s fighters to demonstrate their prowess before an audience of informed enthusiasts.
Chheang Kim said the main purpose of the competition was to select outstanding Boxkator fighters from across the country for entry into Cambodia’s National Championships in the Year.
According to Chheang Kim, at interview with the Cambodia weekly October 28, such a high visibility competition will also help promote the noble art of “Boxkator” as a sport suitable for all and preserve it for future generations of prize-fighting Cambodians.
He said that there are a total of 18 subjects upon which to judge the performance of a fighter. These fall under two general headings, the first dealing with the fighter’s technical ability, the second giving points for displays of style and grace in combat. Those fighters who fill the first places will receive gold medals, along with other value prizes, with silver and bronze awards for the brave runners-up. The prizes have been generously provided by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport.
Sean Kimsan, President of CBF, said that there are more than 20 Boxkator clubs across the cities and provinces of Cambodia. He also noted that this year, some Boxkator associations located in remote provinces could not send fighters to represent them due to lack of funds.
Kimsan said his Federation will examine ways to solve the problems by bringing in support from private companies or donor people for next year’s competitions.
“I have observed that traditional boxing has developed and our boxers have also improved,” Sean Kimsan continued. “I hope that through these competitions, Cambodian boxers will gain more fighting experience and can compete with other boxers at the SEA Games boxing competitions in future. In this way, we can be sure of a bright future for Khmer traditional sports for the next generation.”
Om Tharorth, 18, a female fighter from the Orussey Boxkator Club in Phnom Penh, said that she was happy and excited to attend this year’s competitions as these will mark her entry into a public fight arena. Her look of steely-eyed determination suggests she is well prepared to take on all challengers.
“I hope that with my hard training I will win a golden medal for my club,” she said. “I have beaten my opponents in the last three days of competition and now I am waiting for the final gold medal bout.”
Yong Rathana, 28, a fighter from Hang Meas Boxkator Association in Kandal province, said that he had put himself in the line of fire in previous competitions. He has been learning the art for the past two years and has the experience of 15 previous bouts to back him up.
“This is the second time I have fought for the honour of my Association in these competitions. Last year, I won a bronze medal and this year I strongly believe that with my experience, I’m on course for a gold medal. I’m looking forward to taking the spoils of “Boxkator” war back home to Kandal. From there, it would be the greatest honour for me to represent my country in international competition.” he said.
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278 traditional boxers (this martial art is also known as “Boxkator”) including 15 female boxers from 11 of the nation’s Boxkator boxing clubs and associations have attended the Worldwide National Boxkator Competitions. These fights were held over five days- 27th to 31st October 2008 - at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh and were organized by the Cambodian Boxkator Federation (CBF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS).
Hok Chheang Kim, Secretary General of CBF noted that this year’s competitions mark the third opportunity for the best of Cambodia’s fighters to demonstrate their prowess before an audience of informed enthusiasts.
Chheang Kim said the main purpose of the competition was to select outstanding Boxkator fighters from across the country for entry into Cambodia’s National Championships in the Year.
According to Chheang Kim, at interview with the Cambodia weekly October 28, such a high visibility competition will also help promote the noble art of “Boxkator” as a sport suitable for all and preserve it for future generations of prize-fighting Cambodians.
He said that there are a total of 18 subjects upon which to judge the performance of a fighter. These fall under two general headings, the first dealing with the fighter’s technical ability, the second giving points for displays of style and grace in combat. Those fighters who fill the first places will receive gold medals, along with other value prizes, with silver and bronze awards for the brave runners-up. The prizes have been generously provided by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport.
Sean Kimsan, President of CBF, said that there are more than 20 Boxkator clubs across the cities and provinces of Cambodia. He also noted that this year, some Boxkator associations located in remote provinces could not send fighters to represent them due to lack of funds.
Kimsan said his Federation will examine ways to solve the problems by bringing in support from private companies or donor people for next year’s competitions.
“I have observed that traditional boxing has developed and our boxers have also improved,” Sean Kimsan continued. “I hope that through these competitions, Cambodian boxers will gain more fighting experience and can compete with other boxers at the SEA Games boxing competitions in future. In this way, we can be sure of a bright future for Khmer traditional sports for the next generation.”
Om Tharorth, 18, a female fighter from the Orussey Boxkator Club in Phnom Penh, said that she was happy and excited to attend this year’s competitions as these will mark her entry into a public fight arena. Her look of steely-eyed determination suggests she is well prepared to take on all challengers.
“I hope that with my hard training I will win a golden medal for my club,” she said. “I have beaten my opponents in the last three days of competition and now I am waiting for the final gold medal bout.”
Yong Rathana, 28, a fighter from Hang Meas Boxkator Association in Kandal province, said that he had put himself in the line of fire in previous competitions. He has been learning the art for the past two years and has the experience of 15 previous bouts to back him up.
“This is the second time I have fought for the honour of my Association in these competitions. Last year, I won a bronze medal and this year I strongly believe that with my experience, I’m on course for a gold medal. I’m looking forward to taking the spoils of “Boxkator” war back home to Kandal. From there, it would be the greatest honour for me to represent my country in international competition.” he said.
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Friday, October 24, 2008
Villagers Return to Their Homes following Cambodia-Thai clashes
By BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Cambodians living on the nation’s border with Thailand have started to return to their homes following clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops at the Veal Intry area near the Preah Vihear temple. This is the current situation according to Keo Sen, Governor of O’Chroeu district, Banteay Meanchey province.
The Governor said that approximately 80 percent of the region’s inhabitants have returned to Poipet commune and have resumed normal working duties at Rong Khloeu market in Ahranh Patheat district, Sras Keo province, just over the border in Thailand.
Keo Sen said that a number of Thai nationals had also been seen entering Cambodia to entertain themselves at a casino on the Cambodian side of the International Poipet checkpoint. He also revealed that approximately 70 percent of Thai visitors enter Cambodia to gamble at this casino.
The situation is now responding to calming influences, but the soldiers on each side remain on full alert and preparedness, according to one star general, Pen Voy, commander of 42 Company, a unit of the RCAF deployed around Phnom Dang Rek in Preah Vihear province.
“The situation for the 42nd and 43rd companies based around the Phnom Troap area, remains tense and we have the Thai forces continually in our sights,” the Commander said on October 22. “Our patrols are not penetrating too far into the disputed territory as we don’t want the Thais to misinterpret our activities.”
The Commander Pen Voy said that Thai soldiers and police had so far made no efforts to withdraw to the old boundaries and that Thai numbers had been increasing by around ten men-at-arms per day since October 20.
Remarkably, on October 16, a day after the fatal clashes, the Thai side occupying Region 2, asked for an urgent round of talks with the Cambodian military officials in Region 4. This meeting took place at the Red House (Phtas Krahoam), where they agreed to keep their armed forces within each station and if either side had business in the contested zones, they were to inform the opposition in advance.
The Commander reiterated that the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen stated clearly that Cambodia has no designs whatsoever on neighboring land, but was firm in his decision that no Cambodian territory be ceded to Thailand.
Paved Road to Preah Vihear Temple
Kheng Someath, Director of the Working Group, said that the construction of a properly paved road continues despite the clashes of October 15th. He said that the construction crews lost half a day’s work during the exchange of gunfire at Veal Intry, as workers naturally sought shelter from the bullets.
The Director told generals, Kun Kim, Chief of Staff of the Cambodian Royal Armed Forces and his Deputy Meas Sophea, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Cambodian Royal Armed Forces that so far, over one-and-a half kilometers of road have been completed.
He said that the Royal Government of Cambodia requires the road to be over three-and-a-half kilometers long and seven meters wide. The budget for this project will be covered by US$1.6 million, supplied by the Bayon Foundation and collected by Hun Mana, General Director of Bayon TV-Radio station.
The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Kun Kim expressed his admiration for the patriotism of all construction workers who put themselves in harm’s way for their country following Samdech Hun Sen’s appeal. He also praised the workers for their ability to integrate their mighty efforts with those of the forces sent to protect Cambodia’s integrity.
Cambodians living on the nation’s border with Thailand have started to return to their homes following clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops at the Veal Intry area near the Preah Vihear temple. This is the current situation according to Keo Sen, Governor of O’Chroeu district, Banteay Meanchey province.
The Governor said that approximately 80 percent of the region’s inhabitants have returned to Poipet commune and have resumed normal working duties at Rong Khloeu market in Ahranh Patheat district, Sras Keo province, just over the border in Thailand.
Keo Sen said that a number of Thai nationals had also been seen entering Cambodia to entertain themselves at a casino on the Cambodian side of the International Poipet checkpoint. He also revealed that approximately 70 percent of Thai visitors enter Cambodia to gamble at this casino.
The situation is now responding to calming influences, but the soldiers on each side remain on full alert and preparedness, according to one star general, Pen Voy, commander of 42 Company, a unit of the RCAF deployed around Phnom Dang Rek in Preah Vihear province.
“The situation for the 42nd and 43rd companies based around the Phnom Troap area, remains tense and we have the Thai forces continually in our sights,” the Commander said on October 22. “Our patrols are not penetrating too far into the disputed territory as we don’t want the Thais to misinterpret our activities.”
The Commander Pen Voy said that Thai soldiers and police had so far made no efforts to withdraw to the old boundaries and that Thai numbers had been increasing by around ten men-at-arms per day since October 20.
Remarkably, on October 16, a day after the fatal clashes, the Thai side occupying Region 2, asked for an urgent round of talks with the Cambodian military officials in Region 4. This meeting took place at the Red House (Phtas Krahoam), where they agreed to keep their armed forces within each station and if either side had business in the contested zones, they were to inform the opposition in advance.
The Commander reiterated that the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen stated clearly that Cambodia has no designs whatsoever on neighboring land, but was firm in his decision that no Cambodian territory be ceded to Thailand.
Paved Road to Preah Vihear Temple
Kheng Someath, Director of the Working Group, said that the construction of a properly paved road continues despite the clashes of October 15th. He said that the construction crews lost half a day’s work during the exchange of gunfire at Veal Intry, as workers naturally sought shelter from the bullets.
The Director told generals, Kun Kim, Chief of Staff of the Cambodian Royal Armed Forces and his Deputy Meas Sophea, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Cambodian Royal Armed Forces that so far, over one-and-a half kilometers of road have been completed.
He said that the Royal Government of Cambodia requires the road to be over three-and-a-half kilometers long and seven meters wide. The budget for this project will be covered by US$1.6 million, supplied by the Bayon Foundation and collected by Hun Mana, General Director of Bayon TV-Radio station.
The Royal Cambodian Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Kun Kim expressed his admiration for the patriotism of all construction workers who put themselves in harm’s way for their country following Samdech Hun Sen’s appeal. He also praised the workers for their ability to integrate their mighty efforts with those of the forces sent to protect Cambodia’s integrity.
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