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Articles by Kim Sarom
Ox cart rides offer authentic rural experience, historic temple visits
March 6, 2024 PHNOM PENH – A small village in Kampong Chhnang province is celebrating the return of international tourists, with as many as 100 guests a day enjoying its unique service. The residents of Kampong Tralach Leu village – in Kampong Tralach commune and district – offer an authentic rural experience, mixed with a chance to admire Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, with relaxing rides on traditional ox carts.
Video of attack on Phnom Sampov’s bat cave motivates habitat protection
January 23, 2024 PHNOM PENH – Recent video footage showing three baton-wielding young men hurling projectiles toward a bat colony at Phnom Sampov, a sacred limestone mountain and popular tourist attraction in Battambang province, has drawn the ire of the public and calls for deterrents against such acts. The bat haven draws about 150 visitors each day including over 100 foreigners. The footage went viral on social media, garnering over 17 million views and some 3,000 comments.
Cover Crops Transform Soil Health, Boost Farmers in Cambodia
Cover crops play a crucial role in sustaining soil health and benefitting farmers, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers. Sar Veng, a technical advisor at the Cambodian Conservation Agriculture Research for Development Centre (CARDEC), highlights the positive impact of cover crops on Battambang province’s roughly 5,000 acre land area. Over 1,550 households adopting cover crop cultivation say they have experienced increased yields, promoting sustainable soil management.
Buddhist centre blossoms high above Kirirom National Park
December 7, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Nestled within Kirirom National Park, an enchanting natural haven, lies the burgeoning Buddhist Cultural Centre of Cambodia. Despite being in the midst of construction, this centre magnetically draws both local and international tourists, adding a unique facet to their park exploration.
Traditional clay oven yielding tasty results
Traditional clay oven yielding tasty results An artisanal Siem Reap baker is defying contemporary convention by crafting his bread in a traditional clay oven. His story of unwavering dedication to this age-old practice, cherished by his community, unfolds in a realm of modern culinary technology where electric ovens reign supreme. Ann Sothea, aged 54, has faced the challenge of lifelong paralysis in his right leg.
Demand for farmer's leafy veg rockets
Demand for farmer's leafy veg rockets Recognising the growing demand for a wide assortment of vegetables, a local farmer has made a shift from traditional farming practices to cultivate rocket, also commonly known as arugula, for salad leaves, and shiso, also known as perilla, a member of the mint family used in the cuisines of Korea, Japan, Thailand and Vietnam.
Battambang's historic jute crop makes a return
Battambang's historic jute crop makes a return The name Kdol Daun Teav in Battambang's Ek Phnom district evokes memories of a once-thriving jute rice sack factory, a fixture in the Prek Norint commune for generations. The factory was shuttered in the 1970s, causing a local decline in jute cultivation. Nevertheless, some area residents persist in cultivating this versatile, fibrous plant. Jute, or "krachao" in Khmer, serves as both an agro-industrial and traditional crop within this district.
Cambodian farmer bucks trends, chooses buffaloes over machinery
November 1, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Amid a shift towards modern farming techniques, where machinery gradually replaces domesticated water buffaloes, Hok Hang, a farmer hailing from Kampong Cham province, stands out. He persists in the practice of raising buffaloes for both their labour value and as a business endeavour. Hang, a proactive agrarian, embarked on a venture in 2019, establishing a farm covering approximately 50ha in the province’s Batheay district.
Vintage LPs to safeguard heritage
Vintage LPs to safeguard heritage Objects ranging from antique paintings to ancient tools can hold significant value as remnants of the past, considered tangible works of esteemed elders and ancestors. In Prey Veng province, an elderly man has entrusted a collection of over 100 phonograph records dating back to 1958 - which he held dearly even while escaping shells in wartime - to a researcher for safekeeping, as a part of Cambodia's musical heritage.
Monumental statue project transforms mountains of Kirirom National Park
October 30, 2023 PHNOM PENH – In Preah Suramarit Kosomak Kirirom National Park, a monumental religious statue project is underway, where skilled sculptors are meticulously crafting natural rock into both Hindu-style and Buddhist statues. These statues hold profound significance for spiritual practices and are poised to become a captivating attraction.
Burning passion for tradition: Pyro patterns emerge
October 26, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Artistic creation commonly involves traditional tools like pens, pencils or brushes. However, a local craftsman utilises a pyrography pen, an electric device derived from a soldering iron. This tool allows him to burn intricate patterns and Khmer lettering onto wooden surfaces, resulting in unique and attractive artworks.
Crepe crusaders dig deep for wells
Crepe crusaders dig deep for wells A young Japanese man, with a heart for philanthropy, crafts and sells crepes with a noble purpose. His mission is to fund well construction in local communities, provide crepes for orphans, and even establish a school in Cambodia. In addition to this, he, alongside a team of eight local youths, dedicates their time and energy to cleaning sewage canals in Siem Reap province.
Timeless stories carved in leather
Timeless stories carved in leather In Siem Reap town and province, soft orange-yellow lights reminiscent of Cambodia's national Rumduol flowers gently illuminate the intricacies of "Siem Reap Angkor Leather Carving". Here, a remarkable craft comes to life, as various sizes of dried cowhide hang on the walls, each piece bearing the handiwork of artisans like Khmao Sokea. In the face of challenging circumstances surrounding her family's livelihood, Sokea made a pivotal decision.
Monumental statue project transforms mountains of Kirirom National Park
Monumental statue project transforms mountains of Kirirom National Park In Preah Suramarit Kosomak Kirirom National Park, a monumental religious statue project is underway, where skilled sculptors are meticulously crafting natural rock into both Hindu-style and Buddhist statues. These statues hold profound significance for spiritual practices and are poised to become a captivating attraction.
Areca nut growers navigate market dynamics
Areca nut growers navigate market dynamics In Cambodia, areca palms have a traditional significance, being cultivated by local families for areca nuts (also called "betel nuts") which are used in betel nut chewing, a practice known for its stimulating effects. Nevertheless, a recent shift has occurred, with some farmers now growing the nuts for export, notably to China, which reflects evolving agricultural practices and market demands.
NGS student numbers appear to be growing
NGS student numbers appear to be growing More than 950 new students have enrolled at several of the Kingdom's eleven New Generation Schools (NGS) for the new 2023-2024 academic year, while enrolments continue at the remaining schools. Sao Chantha, principal of Chea Sim Prek Anchanh High School in Kandal province's Mok Kampoul district, said on October 5 that 250 students were registered for the new year, 216 of them in grade 7, and an additional 34 in supplementary classes from grades 10 to 12.
Vintage wonders find new home in unique '100 Window House'
Vintage wonders find new home in unique '100 Window House' A man made an unconventional choice, leaving behind his master's degree in business administration to pursue a different path. His newfound passion led him to collect a diverse array of vintage items, including a mortar and a fish oil lamp, some of which date back more than six decades.
Vintage wonders find new home in unique '100 Window House'
Vintage wonders find new home in unique '100 Window House' A man made an unconventional choice, leaving behind his master's degree in business administration to pursue a different path. His newfound passion led him to collect a diverse array of vintage items, including a mortar and a fish oil lamp, some of which date back more than six decades.
Veal Thlan: A hidden bird lovers’ paradise
October 5, 2023 PHNOM PENH – In Veal Thlan village – within Dangkor district’s Kong Noy commune, on the outskirts of Phnom Penh – a 4ha plot of privately owned land has remained vacant for years. It has become a refuge of sorts for various bird species, including egret, heron, black-crowned night herons and painted storks, which are preserved by villagers and the local authorities. Som Sarun, a local resident, said that in recent years, bird populations have noticeably increased.
Young maths prodigy Kim Se tallies five medals
Young maths prodigy Kim Se tallies five medals Pov Kim Se - a remarkable 15-year-old student in Grade 9 at Preah Sisowath High School's New Generation School - has established himself as a standout scholar. His achievements spanning late 2022 to September this year include securing two gold medals, two silver and one bronze in national maths competitions. With a gold medal proudly adorning his neck, Kim Se holds a certificate of appreciation - a testament to his exceptional mathematical prowess.
Viability of grape cultivation eyed
Battambang and Kampong Speu: Viability of grape cultivation eyed Grape varieties are presently being imported and subjected to viability tests in Battambang and Kampong Speu provinces, with agriculture officials asserting that the importation from foreign sources remains necessary at this time. "Even though I can cultivate grapes, they are currently in the testing phase.
Funding public schools not an issue, say most neighbourhoods
Funding public schools not an issue, say most neighbourhoods Choosing between a private or state school for children is a decision that ultimately rests with the parents or guardians. While some parents favour state schools due to the absence of school fees, there remains a notion that contributions should be made to address any challenges faced by the school and enhance the overall quality of education provided to students.
Graveyard community flourishes
Sleeping with spirits: Graveyard community flourishes The families who have resided in a graveyard in Chbar Ampov district, Phnom Penh, since 1990 have witnessed significant changes. Initially, the area lacked roads and electricity, but today, they benefit from concrete roads and solar power. At present, more than 100 families reside here without fear, along with over 100 tombs in the area. Srey Oun, a 34-year-old, is one of the residents of the community.
ACU's anti-corruption course prepares candidates for exams
ACU's anti-corruption course prepares candidates for exams The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) on September 17 held its fourth course on relevant laws and related legal documents for 400 participants, aimed at preparing candidates for civil service exams within the agency. ACU spokesperson Soy Chanvichet noted that the ACU holds educational sessions every weekend. A preceding workshop held on September 16 attracted 300 attendees.
Tuol Sleng, 81 memorial sites recount tragic past
Tuol Sleng, 81 memorial sites recount tragic past The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located in the heart of Phnom Penh, is Cambodia's main memorial site of the Khmer Rouge interrogation and detention centre. Formerly a secondary school-turned-Security Prison 21 (S-21) after the fall of Phnom Penh in April 1975, Tuol Sleng was one of the largest torture and execution sites in the country during the Pol Pot's "reign of terror".
Students create art from organic waste
A new leaf: Students create art from organic waste Leaves are often overlooked, generally viewed as nothing more than waste. But a group of high school students from Kandal province's Mok Kampoul district have elevated this humble greenery into stunning pieces of animal art. Their creations have not only captured the public's attention but have also garnered numerous orders from across various provinces.
Student-led plastic cleanup garners ASEAN recognition
September 14, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Striving to set an example and educate others on proper plastic disposal, a student and his teammates dedicated over a year to collecting plastic waste from sewage canals in Phnom Penh, resulting in their environmental efforts gaining recognition among young people from ASEAN countries. Hem Sophem, a 22-year-old student from the Institute of Foreign Languages at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, initiated his first plastic waste collection project.
Students create art from organic waste
A new leaf: Students create art from organic waste Leaves are often overlooked, generally viewed as nothing more than waste. But a group of high school students from Kandal province's Mok Kampoul district have elevated this humble greenery into stunning pieces of animal art. Their creations have not only captured the public's attention but have also garnered numerous orders from across various provinces.
Student-led plastic cleanup garners ASEAN recognition
Student-led plastic cleanup garners ASEAN recognition Striving to set an example and educate others on proper plastic disposal, a student and his teammates dedicated over a year to collecting plastic waste from sewage canals in Phnom Penh, resulting in their environmental efforts gaining recognition among young people from ASEAN countries.
Krasang oranges gaining popularity on Cambodia's farms
Krasang oranges gaining popularity on Cambodia's farms Krasang oranges or feroniella orange, known for their abundant juice and a delightful blend of sweet and sour tastes, are gradually making their presence felt in Cambodia's fruit cultivation. Despite not being as widely grown as the local Pursat variety, they are gaining attention for their yield and versatility.
Krasang oranges gaining popularity on Kingdom's farms
Krasang oranges gaining popularity on Kingdom's farms Krasang oranges or feroniella orange, known for their abundant juice and a delightful blend of sweet and sour tastes, are gradually making their presence felt in Cambodia's fruit cultivation. Despite not being as widely grown as the local Pursat variety, they are gaining attention for their yield and versatility.
Cambodian student goes viral for focus on studies
September 8, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Although aware of the risks associated with using a foam raft, a young girl finds herself compelled to rely on this unconventional means of transportation to reach school each day. Chhong Kunthea, a six-year-old girl, faces the unpredictable waters while riding on her makeshift vehicle, navigating waves that pull her in different directions. Her destination: the floating school, where she is eager to learn from her teachers.
Disabled team turning plastic waste into treasure
September 8, 2023 PHNOM PENH – Plastic bottle caps, shampoo and lotion containers get a new life as student rulers, plastic tiles for home decoration, and more, thanks to a team of individuals who work with the Disability Development Services Programme (DDSP), a Cambodian NGO located in Pursat province. Cheam Phanith, 28 years old and a resident of Tuol Char village in Anglong Vil commune, Pursat province’s Kandieng district, skilfully handles slippery plastic bottles on his knee.
Student goes viral for focus on studies
Student goes viral for focus on studies Although aware of the risks associated with using a foam raft, a young girl finds herself compelled to rely on this unconventional means of transportation to reach school each day. Chhong Kunthea, a six-year-old girl, faces the unpredictable waters while riding on her makeshift vehicle, navigating waves that pull her in different directions. Her destination: the floating school, where she is eager to learn from her teachers.
Disabled team turning plastic waste into treasure
Disabled team turning plastic waste into treasure Plastic bottle caps, shampoo and lotion containers get a new life as student rulers, plastic tiles for home decoration, and more, thanks to a team of individuals who work with the Disability Development Services Programme (DDSP), a Cambodian NGO located in Pursat province.
Pailin monk heads up reforestation efforts in Sorng Khavorn Forest
Pailin monk heads up reforestation efforts in Sorng Khavorn Forest Pailin provincial chief monk Ear Sophan has led the planting of 500 beng tree saplings (Afzelia xylocarpa) in the Sangkha Mondul Environment Centre, or Sorng Khavorn Forest. Ten durian trees were also planted. He told The Post that it is the fourth year the activity has been carried out, with participation from a number of monks, local authorities and officials from the provincial Department of Environment.
Weaving Cambodia's precious heritage
Weaving Cambodia's precious heritage In the heart of Cambodia, a centuries-old tradition is alive and flourishing. In the commune of Bralay, Kampong Thom province, nearly 200 families are keeping the art of ropeak (rattan) weaving vibrant. Crafted from rattan, these intricate items are more than just objects; they are a testament to cultural legacy and artisanal skill. Loun Meth, a 41-year-old resident of Chhouk village in Bralay commune, is one such gifted craftsperson.
Weaving Kingdom's precious heritage
Weaving Kingdom's precious heritage In the heart of Cambodia, a centuries-old tradition is alive and flourishing. In the commune of Bralay, Kampong Thom province, nearly 200 families are keeping the art of ropeak (rattan) weaving vibrant. Crafted from rattan, these intricate items are more than just objects; they are a testament to cultural legacy and artisanal skill. Loun Meth, a 41-year-old resident of Chhouk village in Bralay commune, is one such gifted craftsperson.
Crafting beauty products from natural treasures
Sorida: Crafting beauty products from natural treasures Medicinal plants like kaffir lime, Tinospora crispa, aloe vera and Tiliacora triandra are just a few of the natural ingredients Nhim Sorida harnesses in her homemade soaps and shampoos. Sorida, hailing from Pongro village in Serei Saophoan town of Banteay Meanchey province, proudly told The Post that her product line is named "Boran Care". In Khmer, "Boran" translates to "ancient".
In Battambang, dharma echoes in young minds
In Battambang, dharma echoes in young minds In the heart of Battambang province, the gentle hum of dharma recitations resonates through the halls of Wat Kampheng Primary School in Kammeakor village. The familiar drone isn't just restricted to pagodas as it's also a testament to an innovative educational endeavour. Students here, along with those at three other local schools, are being enriched with Buddhist psychological teachings imparted by monks.
Orphanage director raises $40K with 350km run
Orphanage director raises $40K with 350km run Phorn Phalla's eight-day run from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh spanned an impressive 350km. His determination wasn't just for the thrill of the challenge, but to raise funds for the children at Branch Centre, an orphanage that cares for kids rescued from broken homes. By the end of his journey, he'd amassed more than $40,000, ensuring 157 children without parental care would receive food and education.
Demand for organic produce increasing
Demand for organic produce increasing The vibrant, leafy vegetables and juicy fruits grown with organic fertilisers are all the rage in local markets. Farmers cultivating these products are in high demand, especially in Phnom Penh. One market owner, in particular, has ambitious plans to buy a staggering 500 tonnes of these agricultural delights every day. Meet Phan Sopheak, owner of the soon-to-be-launched Phsar Deum Kor Thmey in Phnom Penh's Choam Chao 1 commune. He has big plans for September.
Preah Sihanouk man elevating eco-friendly initiative
Preah Sihanouk man elevating eco-friendly initiative Plastic bottles and bags, notorious for their non-biodegradable nature, have long posed a threat to our environment, whether littered on the ground, buried or afloat in water. Yet amidst this challenge, one man has emerged as a beacon of hope. Meet Nget Ngorn, a dedicated individual who single-handedly gathers plastic bottle waste, amassing an astonishing 100 to 150 tons each month.
P Sihanouk man elevating eco-friendly initiative
P Sihanouk man elevating eco-friendly initiative Plastic bottles and bags, notorious for their non-biodegradable nature, have long posed a threat to our environment, whether littered on the ground, buried or afloat in water. Yet amidst this challenge, one man has emerged as a beacon of hope. Meet Nget Ngorn, a dedicated individual who single-handedly gathers plastic bottle waste, amassing an astonishing 100 to 150 tons each month.
Compost mogul turns trash to treasure
From waste to wealth: Compost mogul turns trash to treasure In the bustling heart of Phnom Penh, a man has found a way to transform waste into wealth. Bun Chantony, a compost mogul from Kbal Koh commune, is turning the city's discarded fruit and vegetables into high-quality compost for crops. "In essence, when we love something, it stays with us forever," says Chantony. Before opening his own enterprise, he honed his skills with a Japanese firm in Cambodia.
Bamboo artisans offer sustainable relief from Kampong Cham deforestation
August 23, 2023 PHNOM PENH – In the realm of furniture craftsmanship, opulent woods like Neang Nuon and Beng have long reigned supreme, gracing homes with their exquisite charm. However, a remarkable departure from this norm is taking shape in Kampong Cham province. Here, a talented woman is turning the spotlight onto bamboo, particularly the ping-pong tronung mourn variety, fashioning it into exquisite decorative pieces.
Bamboo artisans offer sustainable relief from Kampong Cham deforestation
Bamboo artisans offer sustainable relief from Kampong Cham deforestation In the realm of furniture craftsmanship, opulent woods like Neang Nuon and Beng have long reigned supreme, gracing homes with their exquisite charm. However, a remarkable departure from this norm is taking shape in Kampong Cham province. Here, a talented woman is turning the spotlight onto bamboo, particularly the ping-pong tronung mourn variety, fashioning it into exquisite decorative pieces.
Sandan: Beyond a fruit, a legacy of Khmer cuisine
August 22, 2023 PHNOM PENH – In Cambodia, the sandan tree, also known as Garcinia cochinchinensis in Latin or false mangosteen, has long been treasured. Its sour fruit is traditionally savoured either pickled or boiled with betel nut to achieve a radiant hue. Lately, the use of fresh sandan in soups has diminished, giving way to a penchant for the sour pickled fruit blend.
Bamboo artisans offer sustainable relief from K Cham deforestation
Bamboo artisans offer sustainable relief from K Cham deforestation In the realm of furniture craftsmanship, opulent woods like Neang Nuon and Beng have long reigned supreme, gracing homes with their exquisite charm. However, a remarkable departure from this norm is taking shape in Kampong Cham province. Here, a talented woman is turning the spotlight onto bamboo, particularly the ping-pong tronung mourn variety, fashioning it into exquisite decorative pieces.
Beyond a fruit, a legacy of Khmer cuisine
Sandan: Beyond a fruit, a legacy of Khmer cuisine In Cambodia, the sandan tree, also known as Garcinia cochinchinensis in Latin or false mangosteen, has long been treasured. Its sour fruit is traditionally savoured either pickled or boiled with betel nut to achieve a radiant hue. Lately, the use of fresh sandan in soups has diminished, giving way to a penchant for the sour pickled fruit blend.
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