Peace, Insects, Prosperity for 2554: Astrologer

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The New Year is a time for predictions, and as the Year of the Tiger comes to Cambodia, at least one prognosticator says the months ahead may be difficult—at least for some.

Kong Sothanarith, VOA Khmer | Phnom Penh

Tuesday, 13 April 2010

Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS

Cambodian Buddhist followers offer food to the monks during a merit making ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The ceremony is in advance of Cambodian New Year which is held in April 14-16.

The New Year is a time for predictions, and as the Year of the Tiger comes to Cambodia, at least one prognosticator says the months ahead may be difficult—at least for some.

Im Borin, head of the Committee for Research of Astrology and the Cambodian Tradition, told VOA Khmer Tuesday Cambodia will see enough rain in the year ahead, but it will also face destructively high temperatures.

Im Borin, who is himself an astrologer, said the Year of the Tiger will also bring insects. Perhaps half the country’s agricultural output could be destroyed by pests, he said.

Im Borin predicted an improved political climate this year, 2554 on the Buddhist calendar.

Last year saw a souring of relations between Cambodia and Thailand over the appointment of ousted Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra to economic adviser for Prime Minister Hun Sen.

Both countries withdrew their respective ambassadors in the ensuing row, and each maintains a heavy military presence along the border near Preah Vihear temple.

Im Borin said in 2554 a new goddess will descend from Heaven, carrying a needle and a stick, which she will use to protect the world.

“Businessmen will have more prosperity,” he said, a prediction supported by Cambodia’s climb out of a recession last year, with modest growth expected around 4 percent this year.

But the Year of the Tiger won’t be great for everyone, Im Borin said.

“People who were born in the years of the tiger, monkey, pig and rabbit, people who are born under these signs should be a careful this year,” he said.