Vong Vitou, 21, student at Royal University of Phnom Penh

“I think that Valentine’s Day is a special day when we can show our true feelings to people we like and love. We shouldn’t limit it to a day where we can only show our boyfriends or girlfriends love. On Valentine’s Day, I often show my love and care to everyone around me who’s important in my life, such as family and good friends. I like to have small celebrations with them; we go to have a fun meal and indulge in some sweet chocolate.”

Horn Rangsei, 22, student at International University

“I’m not sure how young Cambodians look at Valentine’s Day now. But in my opinion, I think it’s a special day that gives us all a chance to show our love to one another. This can be our parents, teachers, siblings and friends. My opinion seems to be somewhat different than other young Cambodians, who are only focused on their boyfriends or girlfriends. On Valentine’s day, I always organise something special so I can surprise those I love with something happy.”

An Synoch, 24, student at Norton University

“Valentine’s day is a fun holiday for young Cambodians to show their love to their sweethearts and anyone else they love or like. On Valentine’s Day, most young Cambodians ask their lover to go somewhere together or go for a special dinner. Also, they like to surprise each other with roses or an intimate gift. It’s a nice and loving gesture, but young Cambodian couples should be careful not to adopt too many Western traditions.”

Uong Bunboreth, 23, student at Royal University of Law and Economics

“My opinion of Valentine’s Day probably sounds somewhat old-fashioned compared to other young Cambodians. I think that Valentine’s Day should be a special holiday to show love and care to everyone around me, especially my mother. Every Valentine’s Day, I buy my mother roses. And if I have girlfriend, of course I can’t ignore her. I’ll also buy her a small gift to show her my love.”

Soun Sokna, 19, student at Panassastra University

“Valentine’s Day is not a Cambodian tradition, so it’s difficult to define or form an opinion of. We can see that a lot of young Cambodians focus on their boyfriends and girlfriends. I notice that most of my friends buy gifts for their boyfriends and girlfriends, and usually spend the day with them. I think that’s fine, but I want to emphasise that we can show love to our friends and family too.”