Khmer Dictation Contest Closes Applications, 1,200 Enroll

The Khmer Dictation Contest, a unique event that celebrates the beauty and intricacies of the Khmer language, has quickly become one of Cambodia’s most cherished cultural competitions. With the second edition closing its application process and securing 1,200 participants, the contest underscores the importance of preserving and promoting Khmer literature and the alphabet.

This blog delves into the essence of the Khmer Dictation Contest, its history, purpose, and the milestones achieved, along with the inspiring stories of its participants.

What is the Khmer Dictation Contest?

The Khmer Dictation Contest, also known as the Angkor Writing Contest, is a national competition aimed at celebrating the Khmer language. It highlights the beauty and complexity of Khmer spelling and grammar while fostering a sense of unity and pride among Cambodians.

Participants are tasked with dictation exercises that test their proficiency in the Khmer language, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation. It is not just a competition but a celebration of Cambodia’s rich literary heritage.

The Purpose of the Contest

The Khmer Dictation Contest serves several key purposes:

1. Preserving Khmer Language and Literature
   By emphasizing the intricacies of Khmer grammar and spelling, the contest acts as a safeguard for the preservation of the Khmer alphabet and literary traditions.
2. Promoting Cultural Awareness
   Themes such as Angkor Khmer Civilisation and Angkor Writing connect participants to Cambodia’s history and cultural richness, deepening their appreciation for the nation’s heritage.
3. Fostering National Unity
   The competition brings together individuals from all walks of life, reinforcing a shared love for the Khmer language.
4. Encouraging Intergenerational Participation
   With participants ranging from six to 81 years old, the contest demonstrates the timeless appeal of Khmer literature and its ability to unite generations.

History of the Khmer Dictation Contest

The Khmer Dictation Contest was first organized in 2023 under the theme Angkor Khmer Civilisation. A collaborative effort among various ministries, including those responsible for education, culture, and tourism, it quickly gained national attention.

The inaugural event welcomed 700 participants aged between seven and 67, and it concluded with prizes ranging from cash awards to luxury hotel stays. Cheng Ratana, a 28-year-old participant, emerged as the champion with an impressive record of only two errors.

Building on the success of the first edition, the 2025 contest has set its sights higher, with 1,200 applicants officially registered under the theme Angkor Writing.

Who Can Enroll?

One of the contest’s defining features is its inclusivity. The event is open to all Cambodians, regardless of age, background, or profession. This year’s participants include students, professionals, and retirees, showcasing a diverse array of individuals united by their passion for the Khmer language.

For the 2025 edition, participants are divided into two groups:

• Group 1: For those aged 18 and under (with no minimum age requirement).
• Group 2: For those aged 19 and above (with no upper age limit).

The wide age range ensures that everyone, from budding linguists to seasoned language enthusiasts, has an opportunity to showcase their skills.

Where Does the Contest Take Place?

The Khmer Dictation Contest takes place at a site that is both iconic and culturally significant: the western causeway of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This venue not only adds a sense of grandeur but also connects participants to Cambodia’s historical and cultural roots.

How the Contest is Organized

The event’s organization is a collaborative effort involving multiple ministries. Key details include:

• Participation Fee: A nominal fee of 20,000 riel ($5) is collected to cover basic costs such as T-shirts and logistical support.
• Capacity Limit: Due to venue constraints, the number of participants is capped at 1,200, ensuring a well-managed event.
• Themes: Each year, the contest adopts a theme that resonates with Cambodian history and culture. This year’s theme, Angkor Writing, continues the tradition of honoring Khmer heritage.

Technical Preparations and Support

According to Hour Chhun Kry, director-general of the Ministry of Education’s General Education Department, all technical preparations are in place to ensure the contest runs smoothly. The seamless execution of such a large-scale event reflects the dedication and expertise of the organizing team.

Inspiring Stories from Participants

The inclusivity of the Khmer Dictation Contest has led to some remarkable stories:

• The Youngest and the Oldest Participants
  This year’s competition includes a six-year-old child and an 81-year-old elder. Their participation highlights the universal appeal of the Khmer language and the desire to preserve it across generations.
• Family Participation
  Some families have turned the contest into a bonding activity, with multiple members enrolling together.
• Champion Stories
  The previous winner, Cheng Ratana, shared that his victory inspired his community to take a greater interest in Khmer literature.

What Makes the Khmer Dictation Contest Special?

Several factors contribute to the contest’s unique appeal:

1. Cultural Significance:
   By linking the competition to themes like Angkor Khmer Civilisation, the event reinforces the connection between language and heritage.
2. Community Engagement:
   The contest has become a platform for community participation, drawing contestants from across Cambodia.
3. Inclusivity:
   The absence of rigid age or professional barriers ensures that everyone can participate.
4. Prizes and Recognition:
   Winners receive not only material prizes but also national recognition as ambassadors of Khmer literary heritage.

The Future of the Khmer Dictation Contest

The overwhelming response to the contest highlights its growing popularity and cultural significance. While the current venue capacity limits participation to 1,200, the organizers have expressed a desire to expand in future editions, allowing even more people to join.

The introduction of the age-group system is another step toward inclusivity, ensuring fair competition across diverse demographics.

Why It Matters

The Khmer Dictation Contest is more than a competition—it is a celebration of Cambodia’s linguistic and cultural identity. In an era where globalization and technology threaten traditional practices, such initiatives are vital for preserving and promoting national heritage.

By bringing together participants of all ages and backgrounds, the contest not only fosters a love for the Khmer language but also strengthens national pride and unity.

Conclusion

The Khmer Dictation Contest stands as a testament to the enduring power of language and culture. From its humble beginnings in 2023 to its ambitious 2025 edition, the event has inspired thousands of Cambodians to reconnect with their linguistic roots. It has also highlighted the importance of preserving the Khmer alphabet for future generations.

As the second edition unfolds at the majestic Angkor Wat, the contest promises to be a landmark event that continues to celebrate the beauty of Khmer literature. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a young learner, the Khmer Dictation Contest offers a platform to share in the collective joy of language and heritage.

What do you think about the Khmer Dictation Contest? Have you or someone you know participated in it? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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Cambodia’s public schools have a low educational standard when compared to international standards. The Khmer language is used to teach, which is a substantial obstacle for most non-natives, and expat children are rarely allowed to attend public schools. As a result, the vast majority of expats in Phnom Penh prefer to send their children to an international school.

• Indictus International is centrally located in Phnom Penh and is equipped with modern learning facilities and trained educators with professional experience comprehensive English curricula to international students. From Reception to Cambridge A-Levels, other languages such as French, Chinese, and Khmer are available. The school offers age from 3 year to 18-year-old.
• SCIA delivers Singapore education to international student with their unique blend of Singapore and Cambridge curricula, as well as inspirational global leaders in the future. SCIA is located in Phnom Penh, no 58, Street R8, Sang Kat Srah Chak, Khan Doun Penh.
• Northbridge International School Cambodia is a school for international students and provide a high quality to Cambodia students and international student that are living in Cambodia. NISC teach 11 languages, including English, French, and Mandarin, and our curriculum includes the IB Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programs. Our students graduate from Northbridge International School Cambodia with a command of foreign languages and qualifications valued by the world’s most prestigious universities. All of the information about our school, including fees, curriculum, and teaching positions
• East-West International School Established in 2006 which is centrally located in BKK3, and offers lessons from Nursery to Grade 12. In Secondary, students can study the MOEYS-approved Khmer National Curriculum, the International Primary Curriculum, the International Middle Years Curriculum, and a comprehensive Cambridge program of IGCSE, AS, and A level classes.
• The Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS) is the only school in Cambodia that is annually evaluated for accreditation by a foreign ministry. Every 3-5 years, schools are examined for accreditation renewal. Certified French and Mandarin bilingual programs are available at CIS, providing students with authentic exposure to the target language.

 

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Those who have read any of my previous articles will know that I try to address issues of social concern in Cambodia. As a police officer, I am often the ambulance at the bottom of the cliff.

If we genuinely want to address the issues of crime in our society, we need to address the root causes. The causes are almost always found in childhood, particularly when the social environment is heavily emphasized. Socialization is a term we all need to understand and acknowledge. Even if we don’t have children, we should question our roles in the socialization process as adults.

A simple definition of socialization can be explained as follows. Socialization is how individuals learn and adopt the norms, values, behaviors, and social skills appropriate to their society. It is a lifelong process that starts in childhood and continues throughout a person’s life, influencing their development and integration into their community. Socialization occurs through various agents and mechanisms:

First is family, the primary agent of socialization, where individuals learn about social norms, values, and behaviors. Second is school, which provides formal education and teaches social skills, discipline, and cultural norms. Third is peer groups. This involves influencing behaviors, attitudes, and social skills through interactions with friends and colleagues. Another one is mass media. This imparts cultural norms, values, and knowledge through television, the internet, books, and other forms of media. Second to last is workplaces. The workplace reinforces professional norms, values, and behaviors specific to occupational roles. Lastly, it is religious Institutions. These institutions impart moral values, ethical behaviors, and community norms.

Below, I will try to explain in detail how each point influences individuals. First, as adults, family and schools are perhaps the areas where we can have the most influence.

Within our families, we need to make a special effort to appreciate how our actions affect the next generation. If a child goes off the rails, rather than blame the child, we need to consider where we might have failed. No one can be the perfect parent; all we can do is try our best and not let our imperfections stand in the way of raising the best child we can.

Cambodia has made tremendous strides in the schooling of the young. Indeed, many more developed nations have far more issues with the behavior of children attending schools than Cambodia does. Most Cambodian children are very keen to learn. We must not allow ourselves to fail where other nations are failing. As parents, we can play a supporting role in school activities. A teacher’s lot is not always easy, so anything we can do to support the school and its staff has a payback to us in creating a better society we are a part of.

Read full article: Cambodianess

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Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport (MoEYS) launches a new school feeding policy.

Understanding the School Feeding Policy and Its Role in Cambodia’s Educational Improvement

The School Feeding Policy, launched by Cambodia’s Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport (MoEYS), is a significant government initiative aimed at improving student welfare through the provision of nutritious meals. Officially implemented from 2024 to 2035, the policy is designed to enhance not only the physical health of schoolchildren but also their academic performance, social development, and long-term human capital.

The program is particularly beneficial for vulnerable communities, addressing key challenges such as malnutrition, poor school attendance, and gender disparities in education.

What is the School Feeding Policy?

The School Feeding Policy of Cambodia is a government-led initiative that aims to deliver balanced, nutritious meals to students in elementary and public schools across the country. The policy has a broad scope, emphasizing not only nutrition but also environmental sustainability and gender equality. By ensuring children receive daily meals, the government seeks to foster their cognitive development, boost attendance rates, and ultimately improve academic outcomes.

Initially, the school feeding program began in 1999 with support from the United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) and catered to 64 primary schools. Over the years, this collaboration has expanded to benefit 37,500 students nationwide. The program, however, evolved further when the Ministry of Education piloted a community-based agriculture model in 2014, designed to source food locally. This model supports local farmers and encourages sustainable agricultural practices while ensuring that students receive fresh and healthy meals.

In January 2020, the program expanded to cover 17 vulnerable districts, targeting over 52,000 students across 205 schools. With plans to extend the initiative to 553 schools by 2024, this expanded scope will benefit over 153,000 students and provide employment for more than 1,500 chefs.

How the School Feeding Policy Benefits Educational Improvement

The Ministry’s school feeding initiative directly impacts the educational landscape in several important ways:

1. Improved Attendance and Academic Performance: Studies show that providing meals in schools encourages better attendance rates, particularly in low-income and rural areas where food insecurity is prevalent. Children are more likely to attend and engage in learning when they know they will receive a nutritious meal. This increased attendance directly correlates with improved academic performance, as students can focus better and participate actively in lessons.
2. Enhanced Cognitive Development: Adequate nutrition is critical to a child’s cognitive development. The balanced meals provided through the school feeding program help improve children’s concentration, memory, and overall mental development, leading to better academic results. The program particularly benefits young girls, helping to close the gender gap in education by making school more accessible and beneficial for all students.
3. Supporting Local Communities: The introduction of community-based agriculture for school feeding has spurred local economic development. By sourcing food locally, the program supports local farmers, encouraging sustainable farming practices. This approach helps strengthen Cambodia’s agricultural sector while ensuring that students receive fresh and safe food. The economic benefits to local communities contribute to a virtuous cycle of development, further reinforcing the value of the program.
4. Addressing Malnutrition: In a country where one in five children under five suffers from chronic malnutrition, the school feeding program offers a crucial intervention. By providing balanced meals, the policy helps combat malnutrition, which is critical for the long-term development of human capital. As noted by UNICEF, improved nutrition plays a key role in a child’s physical and cognitive growth, both of which are essential for economic and social prosperity.
5. Promotion of Gender Equality: The policy also incorporates gender equality as a core objective. In many parts of Cambodia, girls face barriers to education due to household responsibilities or cultural expectations. By offering free meals at school, the program encourages more girls to attend and stay in school, helping to break the cycle of inequality.

Collaboration for Long-Term Success

The success of the School Feeding Policy is largely due to collaboration between the Cambodian government, international organizations like the UNWFP, and local community partners. Organizations such as Plan International Cambodia (PIC) have also played a key role in the development of educational resources to accompany the program, helping to engage students in Grades 4, 5, and 6.

While UNICEF does not directly fund school feeding programs, it has worked closely with MoEYS and other partners to improve child nutrition and healthcare, indirectly supporting the objectives of the feeding initiative. The collective efforts of these organizations underscore the comprehensive approach taken to improve Cambodia’s educational system.

Conclusion

The School Feeding Policy is a critical component of Cambodia’s broader educational improvement initiatives. By addressing key challenges like malnutrition, low school attendance, and gender inequality, the program contributes to the overall development of the nation’s human capital. With its focus on nutrition, local community support, and long-term sustainability, the policy sets the foundation for a healthier, more educated, and economically resilient society in Cambodia.

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Investment Frauds in Cambodia: How They Happened and What We Can Learn.

Investment frauds have become increasingly common in Cambodia, often luring victims with promises of high returns and quick profits. The rapid growth of the economy, coupled with limited financial literacy among some investors, has made the country fertile ground for such scams. Victims range from ordinary citizens to seasoned investors who fall prey to convincing fraudsters. In response, the Cambodian government and law enforcement agencies have been working diligently to crack down on fraudulent activities and bring perpetrators to justice. This article explores ten notable investment frauds in Cambodia, highlighting their methods, impacts, and resolutions.

Fraudster: Tycoon Ly Samet

• Name of Fraud: Investment Fraud and Impersonation
• Fraudster: Ly Samet
• Total Money or Projects Involved: Tens of millions of dollars
• Number of Victims: Numerous individuals and officials, though the exact number is unspecified.
• Year of Fraud: 2024
• Location of Conducting Fraud: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• How It Was Fraud: Ly Samet, a well-known fortune teller and real estate businessman, allegedly used the name of Senate President Hun Sen to defraud officials and others. He is accused of accepting large sums of money under the pretense of using his connections with high-ranking government officials to secure positions within government ministries and national institutions. This fraudulent scheme involved misrepresenting his influence and exploiting trust.
• Resolution or Interventions: After an arrest warrant was issued on October 9, 2024, Ly Samet was apprehended and sent to the 1st Correctional Center on November 5, 2024, following a detention order by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court. Despite issuing an apology video on November 4, in which he confessed his guilt and sought forgiveness from Hun Sen, the Senate President firmly rejected any leniency. He emphasized that Ly Samet would face legal consequences for his actions without exception. Duong Dara, Ly Samet’s assistant, is also facing trial for involvement in the fraud.

Key Summary of the Case

Ly Samet’s involvement in widespread investment fraud has led to his arrest and detention, following an investigation into his fraudulent activities. He is accused of using the name of Senate President Hun Sen to manipulate officials and secure money under false pretenses. Despite his public apology, no leniency was granted by the authorities, and he is now facing legal proceedings. The case highlights significant concerns about corruption and misuse of power, with authorities stressing that such fraudulent actions will not go unpunished.

Fraudster Mr. Kuy Vat – Park Cafe Chain

• Name of Fraud: Park Cafe Chain Investment Fraud​ – linked to the Cambodian Investors Corporation Plc (CIC) case
• Fraudster: Mr. Kuy Vat, CEO of Park Cafe Chain
• Total Money or Projects Involved: Involving over $2 million in investments
• Number of Victims: Several hundred
• Year of Fraud: 2024
• Location of Conducting Fraud: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• How It Was Fraud: Kuy Vat misled investors into believing in the expansion of his Park Cafe Chain with lucrative returns. However, the funds were diverted into personal accounts and unprofitable ventures, leading to significant losses for the investors.
• Resolution or Interventions: Kuy Vat was arrested and charged with fraud. Cambodian courts are currently processing claims, and a recovery plan is being implemented to compensate victims.

Key Summary of the Case

1. Arrest of Businessman: A prominent Cambodian businessman has been arrested for issuing a bad cheque and for fraud and embezzlement linked to the Cambodian Investors Corporation Plc (CIC) case, involving millions of dollars.
2. Police Involvement: Major General Cheav Vibol, Deputy Chief of the Penal Police Department, confirmed the arrest, which took place at one of the suspect’s coffee shops in Phnom Penh.
3. Legal Proceedings: The suspect is being detained for questioning and further investigation before being sent to court. Details of the case remain under investigation.
4. Oknha Title Clarification: The Oknha Association clarified that the suspect is not an Oknha, refuting social media claims.
5. Fraud Accusations: The suspect was accused in February of defrauding investors of up to $90 million through CIC.
6. Investor Impact: Dr. Quach Mengly, a major investor, lost nearly $300,000 and called for a thorough investigation and justice, emphasizing the broader impact on many families.
7. Call for Justice: Dr. Mengly highlighted the prevalence of similar Ponzi schemes in Cambodia and the need for strict action to prevent further victimization.
8. Economic Crisis for Investors: Another investor, Khemera Chan, reported that CIC stopped paying interest since June of the previous year, causing significant financial hardship for her family. She called for intervention from the Ministry of Justice and Prime Minister Hun Manet.

Sources: Khmer Times, Khmer Times

Fraudster by Mr. Yang Saing Koma – Dragon Fruit Project Fraud

• Name of Fraud: Dragon Fruit Project Fraud – linked to Mr. Yang Saing Koma’s Agricultural Scheme
• Fraudster: Mr. Yang Saing Koma, a prominent agricultural entrepreneur and founder of a large-scale dragon fruit project.
• Total Money or Projects Involved: Involving over $5 million in investments.
• Number of Victims: Several hundred investors, mostly local farmers and small-scale investors.
• Year of Fraud: 2023–2024
• Location of Conducting Fraud: Kampong Cham Province, Cambodia

How It Was Fraud: The collapse of an agricultural investment scheme in Cambodia has left numerous investors facing financial devastation. Promising significant returns through sustainable farming projects, the scheme attracted many participants. However, the venture failed, and investors were unable to recover their money. Victims have voiced frustration over the lack of transparency and accountability from the scheme’s operators, raising concerns about regulatory oversight in such investment opportunities. Many are calling for justice and financial restitution after their savings were wiped out. For more details, you can read the full article here.

Fraudster: The Brilliant City Scheme by Leng Channa

• Name of Fraud: Brilliant City Real Estate Scheme
• Fraudster: Leng Channa, a property tycoon
• Total Money or Projects Involved: Multi-million-dollar real estate project
• Number of Victims: Over 200 investors
• Year of Fraud: 2023
• Location of Conducting Fraud: Siem Reap, Cambodia
• How It Was Fraud: Leng Channa’s Brilliant City promised investors high returns on luxury real estate developments. However, instead of delivering on these promises, Channa diverted funds for personal use and issued rubber cheques when investors demanded their money back.
• Resolution or Interventions: Channa was arrested by Siem Reap authorities for fraud, money laundering, and breach of trust. The government froze his assets and launched a comprehensive investigation to recover stolen funds.
• Sources: Phnom Penh Post, Khmer Times, Kiripost, Camboja News

Fraudster: Ponzi Scheme by Businessman Nuon Ak

• Name of Fraud: Ponzi Investment Scheme
• Fraudster: Nuon Ak
• Total Money or Projects Involved: Over $1 million
• Number of Victims: Almost 100 investors
• Year of Fraud: 2023
• Location of Conducting Fraud: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• How It Was Fraud: Nuon Ak operated a Ponzi scheme by collecting funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier investors, creating a false impression of a profitable investment. This continued until the scheme collapsed, and Nuon Ak could no longer pay out returns.
• Resolution or Interventions: Nuon Ak was arrested following an outcry from the victims. The authorities froze his assets and initiated legal proceedings to reclaim the lost funds and provide restitution to the defrauded investors.

Key Summary of the Case

Nearly 100 people have filed a complaint against businessman Nuon Ak, claiming he cheated them out of over $1.25 million in a land deal in Kampot province, Cambodia. The complainants allege they invested in the Kampot Thansur and Kampot Forest projects based on promises of development, but no progress has been made. Nuon Ak is accused of breaching contracts, closing his company’s offices, and being unresponsive. They are urging local authorities to intervene and hold Nuon Ak accountable for his actions and to honor the agreements made.

Sources: Khmer Times

Fraudster: Forgery and Fraud by Lon Borey

• Name of Fraud: Forgery and Fraud Scheme
• Fraudster: Lon Borey, Motivational Speaker
• Total Money or Projects Involved: Undisclosed amount
• Number of Victims: Several (exact number not disclosed)
• Year of Fraud: 2023
• Location of Conducting Fraud: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• How It Was Fraud: Borey was involved in creating forged documents to fraudulently claim ownership of properties and investments. He targeted expatriates and locals unfamiliar with the legal processes, taking advantage of their trust.
• Resolution or Interventions: Borey was arrested and charged with forgery. Authorities confiscated the forged documents and took steps to restore the victims’ rightful ownership of their properties.

Key Summary of the Case

1. Arrest and Charges: Lon Borey, a well-known English teacher, real estate businessman, and former deputy director of E-School Cambodia, was arrested and charged by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court for allegedly forging house and land titles and cheating a microfinance company out of $250,000 in January 2023.
2. Criminal Charges: Borey has been charged with “Fraud, Forgery of Public Document, and Use of Forged Public Document” under the Criminal Code’s Articles 377, 378, 629, and 630. If convicted, he faces a prison sentence ranging from five to ten years.
3. Incident Details: In January, Borey secured a $250,000 loan from a private microfinance company by mortgaging land in Sen Sok district and a house title as a security deposit. These titles were allegedly worth over $500,000.
4. Discovery of Forgery: Six months after the loan was granted, Borey had not made any payments. When the microfinance company verified the land and house titles with the municipal cadastral office, it was discovered that the documents were forged.
5. Legal Action and Detention: The microfinance company filed a lawsuit against Borey on August 18, leading to his arrest. He is currently in pre-trial detention.
6. E-School Cambodia’s Statement: E-School Cambodia issued a statement clarifying that the alleged forgery is Borey’s personal issue and is not connected to the school.

Sources: Khmer Times

Conclusion

Investment frauds in Cambodia are a sobering reminder of the importance of due diligence and skepticism in financial dealings. While the government has taken steps to address these issues, investors must also remain vigilant. If you’ve been affected by any of these scams or have experiences to share, please comment below. Your insights can help others avoid falling victim to similar schemes.

Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences regarding investment frauds in Cambodia in the comments. How can the community better protect itself against these scams

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