A fragile peace, one year on

Photo by: TRACEY SHELTON

The Phnom Penh Post
Wednesday, 08 July 2009
CHEANG SOKHA

Views from the front
Images from the Preah Vihear temple complex and front-line positions during preparations for the one-year anniversary of the temple's inscription as a World Heritage site.

Keo Samnang, 28, a monk at Wat Botum

"The celebration is to inform all Cambodian citizens that Preah Vihear temple belongs to Cambodia, and that it was recognised and listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. People are celebrating everywhere across the country - in the pagodas, schools and public parks. At the pagoda we rang the drum for half an hour to celebrate the victory at Preah Vihear."

Phorn Rina, 26, motorbike driver from Prey Veng

I just learned today that there would be a celebration of Preah Vihear temple. I've seen a lot of people out celebrating, and I know this event will be commemorated in all places in the country. Even though I just learned about it, I want this to be celebrated every year. I am concerned that Thailand wants Preah Vihear and am afraid to lose this temple to Thailand.

Nhem Sambo, 78, a nun at Wat Langka

Today I celebrated the one-year anniversary of Preah Vihear's listing, the first time we have celebrated this event in the pagoda. Preah Vihear belongs to Cambodia, and we want to celebrate this anniversary every year. The magic of Preah Vihear is very strong, and it will help Cambodian people have happiness and also prevent another Thai incursion.

Seng Bunna, 11, a fifth-grader at Anuwat Primary School

Today I'm very happy because I rang the bell with my friend to celebrate the anniversary of Preah Vihear's listing as a World Heritage site. I want to ring the bell again next year because it was very exciting. This evening my friends and I will go to Olympic Stadium to see the concert.

INTERVIEWS AND PHOTOS BY CHEANG SOKHA