Tension between Thailand and Cambodia has resurfaced as Cambodia has urged an investigation from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) regarding Thailand's construction of a replica of Angkor Wat.
Speaking at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee meeting in Paris, Cambodian Culture and Fine Arts Minister Phoeung Sackona expressed strong concerns over Thailand's replica, which was launched without prior consultation or consideration.
Located at Wat Phu Man Fah in Buri Ram province, the temple complex "Siha Nakhon" closely resembles the ancient temples of Angkor, prompting Cambodia to request intervention from the government and relevant advisory agencies.
As Angkor Wat has been a symbol of national identity since being listed as a World Heritage Site in 1992, Sackona voiced deep worries about the project, noting that it severely undermines the integrity, authenticity, and "outstanding universal value" of the iconic site.
History of cultural dispute
In fact, the dispute over the reproduction of Angkor Wat is not new, where Thailand previously launched a project for a replica building named "Siha Nokor" at the same location in 2021.
However, Thai officials stressed the project was inspired by a Thai monk's dream, claiming an investment of HK$23 million for a larger construction than Angkor Wat is planned.
The tension between the two countries had previously cooled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, but the newly named "Siha Nakhon" again bears a striking resemblance to Angkor Wat, reigniting dissatisfaction from Cambodia.
Worsened relationship between officials fueled tension
Meanwhile, some analysts suggested that the deteriorating relationship between the Thai and Cambodian governments has influenced Cambodia's decision to seek UNESCO's intervention.
Reports indicate that Thailand's suspended Prime Minister and current Minister of Culture, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, delayed the return of 20 ancient artifacts to Cambodia, citing a "lack of funds," following a leaked phone call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen.
Additionally, while Cambodia has applied to register the traditional Khmer wedding, also known as "Khmer Marriage, Khmer Wedding," on UNESCO's World Intangible Cultural Heritage List, Thailand has accused Cambodia of using images of Thai wedding attire.
Border disputes for decades
Despite shared cultural ties, disputes between Thailand and Cambodia have persisted for decades, tracing back to the period before clear territorial demarcations were established.
It is suggested that the shared boundary mapped by France in 1907, when Cambodia was still a colony, has contributed to ongoing border disputes.
Notably, despite a ruling by the International Court of Justice in The Hague in favor of Cambodia in 1962, declaring the Preah Vihear Temple to be within Cambodian territory, the surrounding territory remains unsettled.
Beyond boundary disputes, tourism has also played a role in their cultural conflicts.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand's tourism sector contributed nearly 20 percent of the national GDP, generating over HK$46 billion last year, while Cambodia has experienced a sharp decline in visitors due to negative perceptions stemming from concerns over online scams.
To attract tourists, cultural tourism has become a key focus for both countries, further motivating Cambodia to object to the development of the replica Angkor Wat.
(Phoebe Poon)
