The Ministry of Religions and Cults has instructed clergymen throughout the country to adhere to traditions when presiding over ceremonies.

Addressing a training workshop under the theme Clergymen’s Role, Duty and Ethics on Tuesday, Minister Him Chhem said the Kingdom is rich in cultural heritage, with traditions varying from one region to another.

“Clergymen must behave properly and stick to traditions and customs inherited from our ancestors. The practice for each ceremony must be consistent depending on each region, otherwise wrong practices will spread,” he said.

‘Right and wrong’

Chhem said each rite has its own history and protocols, thereby requiring clergymen to have an in-depth knowledge.

“Each ceremony, be it religious or traditional, has underlying educational purposes and a philosophy of life, so clergymen are required to be well-trained practitioners,” he said.

When hosting events, Chhem said, clergymen should make people aware of the right and wrong practice. He also urged clergymen to work in unity with relevant parties including monks, religious departments and local authorities to avoid social discrimination.

“The minister wants all clergymen to help preserve tradition and lead people to the right path,” the ministry’s spokesman Seng Somony said.

According to Somony, the number of clergymen who joined the ministry’s workshop totalled 10,000. He said the ministry plans to offer such training once every three months.

Nhoek Kao, a clergyman at Champuh Ka’ek pagoda in Chbar Ampov district’s Prek Pra commune – who attended the ministry’s first training workshop – said he welcomed the minister’s appeal as some clergymen do not comply with traditional protocols.

“When I attended the workshop, they taught us about the protocols for each ceremony. The training is a good way to prevent wrong practice."

“Champuh Ka’ek is an ancient pagoda. The practice during religious and traditional ceremonies at the pagoda has been consistent. We’ve followed all customs and protocols,” he said.