Prime Minister Hun Manet called for enhanced efforts to protect and promote the ancient temple complex of Koh Ker, as he marked the one-year anniversary of the Preah Vihear province temple’s inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List on September 17. 

In a September 15 statement, he highlighted the importance of preserving Koh Ker's cultural and historical value for future generations, and urged further cooperation from international partners.

“With this congratulations, I call on the Co-chairs of China and India, along with all member countries of the International Coordinating Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Natural and Cultural Site of Preah Vihear Temple (ICC-Preah Vihear), to further expand their efforts in preserving and promoting the Koh Ker temple complex,” said the statement.

“This site, a treasure for all humanity, should be protected based on the existing model of active cooperation with the Royal Government of Cambodia.” 

The prime minister commended the leaders of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the National Authority of Preah Vihear, and both national and international experts for their dedication to achieving this important recognition. 

"Their hard work, high professionalism, and perseverance overcame many challenges to bring us this great achievement," he said. 

He extended special thanks to Cambodia’s international allies and dignitaries for their support in recognising the temple's universal value.

Built by King Jayavarman IV in the 10th century, Koh Ker served as the capital of the Khmer Empire for over a decade. 

The prime minister also used the opportunity to issue a stern reminder to local authorities. He urged the Preah Vihear provincial authority and the National Authority of Preah Vihear to remain vigilant against threats to the site, including illegal land encroachment, deforestation, wildlife hunting and unauthorised excavations. 

"We must enhance and preserve Koh Ker for the benefit of development and the livelihoods of the local population," he reiterated.

To celebrate this significant occasion, the Prime Minister called on media outlets across Cambodia to promote the anniversary widely. 

He encouraged the nation to take part in events marking one year since the temple's addition to the UNESCO list, and to continue fostering local tourism around the site.

Koh Ker was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List on September 17, 2023, during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

The temple complex showcases a mix of monumental temples, sculptures and ancient irrigation systems, reflecting the technological prowess and urban planning skills of the Angkorian era.

The government’s successful bid for UNESCO recognition is widely seen as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and has brought national and international attention to the site. 

Since its inscription, the government has made efforts to enhance the site’s protection, while encouraging sustainable tourism to boost the local economy.