Pech Sovanna, 20, a sophomore, majoring in engineering at the National Technical Training Institute

“Cambodian ladies should value themselves, so that they are not encouraged to talk about sex in the public. Cambodian culture really respects the female sex. They are considered role models; at the same time, if they talk about sex in public, it is known that ladies are shy to go too deep into that bad topic. I can guarantee that lady is not a virgin, if she does not hesitate to speak about sex out loud. In my experience, I have many friends who are girls; they have never ever talked about sex.”

Nong Chanmolika, 23, a graduate student, majoring in Economics at the Royal University of Law and Economics

“I think it is good. Also, I encourage them to speak out loud. They are not making mistakes, but they help each other to share and learn. Learning can be everywhere including in public. Sex might be a sensitive topic but it’s interesting to know about. If we only think about the culture without up to date information, we would be late to work in the society. Knowledge about sex is still a concern in our country – some ladies have babies without wanting them, wives contract HIV from their husbands.”

Ngon Rorong, 19, a fresh high school graduate

“From my point of view, men talking about sex is the nature of human kind, same for women. Even Cambodian culture is quite strict on women talking about this issue, I don’t mind at all if I see a lady talking about sex in public. They are adult as I am, so I could appreciate feelings of wanting to share knowledge and experience. Importantly, they want their friends to have good health, and be able to prevent themselves contracting diseases such as HIV or STD.”

Nan Titheary, 21, a senior, majoring in Law of Royal University of Law and Economics

“Why can’t youth talk about sex in public? I have figured out that sex education is also an issue of general knowledge. Therefore, either boy or girl should know clearly about it, and even I heard people talking about in public. I don’t think they are bad, instantly I appreciate them for sharing this information. Moreover, while foreign culture is throwing itself to our nation, problems can happen anytime, and youth should be ready to understand some of the things that might affect their future and health.”

Prak Phearak, 21, a student from the Sitec Institute, majoring in Information Technology

“It is not a crime to talk about sex in public. But Cambodian girls should know who they are and here they are from. They have a really beautiful culture and tradition. When they talk in the public about sex like this, other people will consider that all Cambodian youth, especially girls, go against their culture. And this will make Cambodian culture lost some days in the future. Anyway, if they are really curious to talk about sex, I would recommend them to talk in a private place. They can talk personally with friends, doctors, teachers or their partners at home or a comfortable place. They still can learn from reading books, and multimedia online. Nowadays, technology can tell about everything. ”