Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet affirmed his government’s continued commitment to promoting writing and publication across Cambodia. In a letter marking the second National Writers’ Day on December 7, he specifically called on all stakeholders to contribute financial support to ensure the growth of Cambodia’s vital writing sector.
The theme for this year’s celebration is clear: “Writers are goodwill ambassadors for cultural preservation and development for peace.”
Writers: Engineers of the Soul and Cultural Protectors
Hun Manet emphasized that writers, composers, and all Cambodian patriots have a critical mission: to elevate the value of authors. Cambodia regards writers as “engineers of the soul” and key opinion makers. Their role extends to protecting national identity, sharing knowledge, fostering new ideas, and encouraging the public to conduct research and dissemination.
He described the annual event as meaningful, honoring the contributions of generations of authors who have strengthened both national literature and education.
Government Prioritizes Research and Innovation Funding
The Prime Minister confirmed his government continues to prioritize research and writing, actively encouraging educational institutions, associations, and independent writers to innovate and contribute work that benefits education. This effort directly responds to the growing research needs of students across all sectors.
“The government continues to prioritize research funding to foster creativity and innovation to support new inventions, writings, and publications in all sectors,” Hun Manet stated.
The government’s key goals are to increase the number of quality literary works, strengthen ethical standards, and preserve the values of literature, culture, and tradition.
Nurturing the Cultural Industry and Appeals to the Private Sector
The National Writers’ Day celebration directly supports national cultural policy objectives by nurturing the cultural industry and motivating creative fields, including visual arts, music, film, publishing, performing arts, crafts, and design. The Prime Minister stressed that this work contributes to economic growth, enhances national identity, and safeguards traditional knowledge.
To sustain this growth, Hun Manet encouraged broader financial support for the writing sector:
“I would like to appeal to ministries, institutions… civil society groups, national and international organizations, and the private sector to join in promoting the writing sector and to widely support National Writers’ Day in 2025.”
He concluded by recognizing the importance of protecting the rights of authors, noting that relevant ministries continue to enforce and develop regulations on intellectual property, including copyright, in line with international standards.