Soeurn Sovanna, 21, a junior student at the Royal University of Phnom Penh

“I stand in the middle. I support both Cambodian and European events. I plan to go out with my family to eat. It’s not our tradition, but as most people I enjoy it. I just want to have some fun with my family. Some restaurants will have special promotions, and we’ll have a great time together. I think it’s going to be more joyful than a normal day because there will be many people.”

Sok Chea Sokhim, 23, a graduate student

“I have a small plan for that day. I will buy some gifts for my mom and sister, and a small gift for my best friend as well. I know they are not my lovers, but I just want to make them happy by giving them some gifts. It will make me happy, and I know my sister and friend will buy me a gift as well.”

Srey Chan Sokna, 19, a freshman at the National University of Management

“Valentine’s Day means nothing to me. It’s not a Cambodian event, and it’s not related to Cambodian culture at all. But I’m not saying it’s not a good thing; I just mean it’s not our event. It will be just a normal day for me. I will go to school and do my normal tasks. There’s nothing special to celebrate.”

Pen Tharak, 22, a sophomore student at Phnom Penh International University

“I plan to celebrate it with my friend; for me, that’s enjoyable. It’s not a Cambodian event, but my friend and I enjoy it. Normally, we just hang out with friends, chatting and having some fun. Most of my classmates want to go out together on that day. We are just go after we finish our school day. It’s just about having some fun with a friend for one or two hours. As most of the people on the street are interested in this event, it will be crowded and more enjoyable.”

San Sophanith, 20, a sophomore student at Phnom Penh International University

“Even though it’s not a Cambodian celebration, I plan to celebrate on that day. I like Cambodian ceremonies, but it’s not a mistake to accept something new or from another culture, as long as we still preserve and value our own culture. I plan to go out with my girlfriend and eat. I plan to buy some gifts and flowers for her as well. It’s not wrong to buy something for someone I love on that day, as everyone in the world will be celebrating it in this way.”