Stop Cambodian-Thai Conflict Before It Wipes Out Ancient Temples

By Vijian Paramasivam

PHNOM PENH, July 25 (Bernama) -- A leading tourism body is urging the international community to help protect Cambodia’s priceless ancient temples amid the ongoing conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. 

The Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter Chairman, Dr Thourn Sinan, said destruction of the ancient temples would be a significant loss, not just to the Cambodian people, but to the world.

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“This is bigger than the borders. It’s about human dignity and world heritage. Temples like Preah Vihear, Ta Moan, and Ta Krabey have stood for centuries. If they are destroyed, it is not just Cambodia’s loss - it is the world’s loss. 

“These sites are not just Cambodia landmarks, they are recognised as part of the world’s cultural heritage,” Sinan told Bernama today. 

The Preah Vihear temple is located in Preah Vihear province, while Ta Maon Temple and Ta Kra Bei Temple are located in Odor Meanchey province. 

These areas have become flash points for the two neighbours which have become adversaries over decades-long territorial disputes.

Although tensions were sporadic in the past, on Thursday, the dispute turned ugly with heightened military engagement between the two nations at the borders. 

Sinan is urging the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), ASEAN, and the United Nations to protect the world heritage sites and stop the conflict before it becomes a conflagration.

Preah Vihear was built between the ninth and 11th century, while Ta Moan was constructed in the 11th century. The history of Ta Krabey temples dates back to between the ninth and 10th century. 

These temples were built during the Angkor period of the ninth to the 15th century, which is known for its glorious architecture. 

The structures have become a major tourist attraction among local and foreign tourists.

“Cambodia is safe for visitors. Our main tourism destinations - Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Battambang, Sihanoukville, and our islands - remain open and unaffected. The clashes are limited to small, remote areas along the border,” said Sinan.

 --  BERNAMA