Koh Ker Temple, an ancient temple complex in Cambodia, was officially added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List on September 17, 2023, during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The temple, also known as Lingapura or Chok Gargyar, is located in the Srayong commune of Preah Vihear province’s Kulen district and spans 1,187 hectares. It was built in the 10th century by King Jayavarman IV and was the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period.

In a congratulatory letter, Prime Minister Hun Manet described the listing as a historical event and noted that the temple was accepted to the list by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) as one of the world’s top architecture sites.

He also highlighted the great joint efforts that went into the process of registering the temple as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is long and complicated, requiring extensive documentation and reviews by domestic and international experts.

Manet thanked all relevant parties for their contributions to this outstanding result and instructed authorities at all levels to safeguard the temple and follow the guidelines of the World Heritage Committee in terms of development in the area. He also called for the prevention of land encroachment, construction, deforestation, hunting, and illegal excavations, as they could affect the value of the temple complex.

To celebrate this accomplishment, Manet instructed state institutions at all levels to beat drums or gongs and cheer on September 20 at exactly 7am in all locations, including pagodas and schools. He also requested that the media cooperate in the celebrations.

The listing of Koh Ker Temple as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a significant achievement for Cambodia and a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. It is also a recognition of the importance of protecting and preserving this unique and valuable site for future generations.