Thailand’s ‘Angkor Wat Replica’ Row Flares Again
This photo shows the construction of a temple in Thailand's Burriram Province. Photo from Boranaja
- By Nhek Sreyleak
- September 27, 2023 11:55 AM
PHNOM PENH – The construction of a new temple at Wat Phu Man Fah in Thailand, which bears a likeness to Angkor Wat, has sparked renewed controversy, with Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts trying to resolve the issue.
Images of the new temple distributed recently on social media have led to strong criticism from Cambodian social media users.
The hashtag #RespectAngkorwatUNESCOCambodia went viral on Facebook as users called for an end to the construction. “We put in all of our efforts by sending archeologists and architects to inspect the construction of this new temple since this case erupted in 2021,” the ministry said on Sept. 26.
To resolve the issue, Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture of Cambodia met Panyarak Poolthup, then Ambassador of Thailand to Cambodia in 2021.
The ministry said, “Our previous actions focus mainly on diplomatic activities with the Royal Thai Embassy and Ministry of Culture in Thailand.
“Cambodia has a firm stance to prevent any actions that infringe on our national identity. In addition, we will continue our professional and diplomatic procedures to settle this controversial issue.”
The Thai temple abbot also presented documents and elaborated on them to the Ambassador of Cambodia to Thailand who visited the site.
The abbot said the design was not identical to Angkor Wat and the layout had been inspired by other temples in Thailand.
Originally written for ThmeyThmey, this article was translated by Rin Ousa for Cambodianess.
