AKP Phnom Penh, September 27, 2026 — His Majesty Preah Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, has described the Kan Ben and Pchum Ben festivals as major national traditional celebrations that the Cambodian people have observed annually since ancient times.

In a recent Royal Message, His Majesty expressed his great pleasure and joined the Cambodian people in celebrating Kan Ben and Pchum Ben, which will be observed this year from Sept. 27 to Oct. 11.

His Majesty said the festivals hold deep significance for the Cambodian people, providing a special opportunity for Cambodians, whether living nearby or far from home, to return to their hometowns, reunite with family members and relatives, and participate in traditional religious ceremonies at their homes and pagodas.

The festivals are also an important occasion for Cambodians to demonstrate gratitude and respect for their parents, ancestors and benefactors, as well as to dedicate merit to deceased ancestors and relatives.

His Majesty commended the solidarity, unity and strong relationships among the Cambodian people demonstrated through their participation in these important national traditions. He particularly praised their love for Cambodian culture and their efforts to protect and preserve the country’s valuable customs and traditions.

The King emphasised that maintaining and passing these traditions from one generation to another is essential to preserving a valuable cultural heritage for the nation and future generations.

On the occasion of Kan Ben and Pchum Ben, His Majesty called on all Cambodians to continue protecting, preserving and promoting the nation’s traditions and cultural heritage, while strengthening solidarity and national unity.

His Majesty also encouraged the Cambodian people to contribute collectively to maintaining peace and social stability and to the continued development and prosperity of the nation.

By C. Nika