tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15638703488130045182024-03-19T10:57:17.005+07:00In search of Siem ReapMonash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-25581916574366514622008-07-13T23:00:00.004+07:002008-08-23T21:25:50.116+07:00In Search of Siem Reap: Epilogue<em>by YSG</em><p>It was rather easy to generate interest to this year's study trip to Siem Reap. The powerful allure of Angkor Wat was publicity enough. What needed more thought, however, was to craft together a variety of inputs providing snippets into contemporary Cambodian society and culture in a limited space of time. For the rest of the travel itinerary, I relied on the curiosity and energy of the travelers themselves to ferret out stories consonant with their own interests.<br /></p><p><br />In what ways this particular cohort of young and novice travelers have grasped Cambodian society and culture at a specific moment in time are now on courageous display in this collective blog. Unlike private diaries, they are written for an anonymous global audience and offer an eclectic mix of entries as a textual and visual record of their journey together.<br /></p> <p><br />A few motifs can be discerned from their respective entries. One thread deals with the tragic and long term repercussions of genocide, war, disease and poverty. Another looks at the rich heritage of ancient Cambodia and its power for both economic uplift and the commercialization of culture. Yet another thread highlights issues of democracy and economic justice in a country undergoing rapid modernization and developmental change.<br /></p> <p><br />This year's trip would not have been possible without the goodwill and assistance of key institutions and individuals. Firstly, to Dr Philippe Peycam, Executive Director of the <em>Center for Khmer Studies</em>, for readily agreeing to be the host institution and opening up the facilities of the center. My gratitude also goes to Dr Michael Sullivan (CKS), Ms Depika Sherchan (<em>Centre on Housing Rights and Eviction</em>), Venerable Y Nol and Mr Duong Than (<em>Life and Hope Association</em>), and Mr Serge Rega (<em>National Center for Khmer Ceramics Revival</em>) for providing their insights into Cambodian society and culture.<br /></p> <p><br />As only the travelers themselves would appreciate, the study trip would be that much poorer without the valuable assistance of our able student guides from the Royal University of Phnom Penh - Ms Bunneth Siek, Mr Hak Bona, Mr Kosal Din, Ms Borey Yin and Mr Thach Sorn. Much more than mere translators, they helped the Monash travelers to traverse both linguistic and cultural barriers.<br /></p> <p><br />Whether it was the agonizing slow speed of the internet, the scorching heat, the dusty roads, the price of souvenirs and handicraft, exotic cuisine, the architectural marvels of ancient Cambodia or the heart wrenching stories of landmine victims and forced evictions, I believe this year's study trip has generated enough talking points to last for quite a while. However, if the trip had helped the student travelers in a small way to better appreciate and empathize with some of the challenges that face Cambodians today, I believe its value lies deeper and is more lasting.</p><p><br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsJYzj_b4NRD6L3CdI8ts__yq4rhNfwZp0ET6c0i-Rb0a_C1_wRgICZBp8whNzNl5A-cude-LRDtr2QFAwNuaX78en-TPvfBq5P3XPGMLpMpU-yHHWXXs5Bqtez-mpfs-ucpu2T3svWM/s1600-h/yeoh's+epilogue.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirsJYzj_b4NRD6L3CdI8ts__yq4rhNfwZp0ET6c0i-Rb0a_C1_wRgICZBp8whNzNl5A-cude-LRDtr2QFAwNuaX78en-TPvfBq5P3XPGMLpMpU-yHHWXXs5Bqtez-mpfs-ucpu2T3svWM/s400/yeoh's+epilogue.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237718836552121730" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Siem Reap 2008 - the memories will live forever.</span></span><br /></p>Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-43996234148678443812008-07-12T22:00:00.006+07:002008-12-09T06:17:43.517+07:00Closing entry by Co-editors Mindy and Maxine<span style="font-style: italic;">by Mindy Wong</span><br /><br /><br />I am thrilled to say that every individual who has been part of this year's study trip, <em>In Search of Siem Reap</em>, has contributed an enormous amount of time and effort to this blog. In terms of the high level of contribution, and I'm not only pointing fingers at those who were the last to leave the cyber café (you know who you are). I would honestly say that it was the little things people did that smoothed out the bumps for others. This spanned from giving and accepting constructive criticisms to offering to buy refreshments or giving each other a gratifying pat on the back.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBUAwYPssl_Tw3ovE5lTdahyphenhyphenE0b9crgdgAtF8YKlTSrmqi2oRXbQBK1wJ9vqivtUgmOrkhp0V1Ab3cR0qAxEU7RJxdK-mMWfoAWcjS4e1IGizXB3GYCGvRKCT0uzPvxseOr_xf1oi8y2s/s1600-h/minz+work+3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBUAwYPssl_Tw3ovE5lTdahyphenhyphenE0b9crgdgAtF8YKlTSrmqi2oRXbQBK1wJ9vqivtUgmOrkhp0V1Ab3cR0qAxEU7RJxdK-mMWfoAWcjS4e1IGizXB3GYCGvRKCT0uzPvxseOr_xf1oi8y2s/s200/minz+work+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225390039474497762" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:78%;">Sketches of Siem Reap: A flower grown in the premises of Wat Damnak</span><br /></span></span></div><br />Each of us have encountered truly unique experiences in the pursuit of our soft stories, such as the invitation to a local birthday party and classic moments like snapping the guitar string that belonged to a tuk-tuk driver! For most of us, we have fine-tuned our bargaining skills. Some of us have also learnt how to handle aggressive stray dogs without combat, accustom ourselves to temperamental downpours and dust, as well as acquire an appreciation for local Khmer food.<br /><br />In this aspect, I would have to admit my addiction for salads. In one of the days I had up to three salads! So I've had my fair share of vegetable, pork, shrimp, glass noodles and Western as well as Khmer salads, which I will terribly miss.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXD__KxbkEp_HLCilxwVMQGrjbwdrqH_mUN2JNy6Rd8FYCtc_k1-zpoG36DM4snJ1emoxwZBc3A5sysrNRIj1H997oDBBFIpa_MQS969IFi5q0hoPbgIVJ1I8O8TXzzb4ZV9GgotaplQ/s1600-h/minz+work+4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXD__KxbkEp_HLCilxwVMQGrjbwdrqH_mUN2JNy6Rd8FYCtc_k1-zpoG36DM4snJ1emoxwZBc3A5sysrNRIj1H997oDBBFIpa_MQS969IFi5q0hoPbgIVJ1I8O8TXzzb4ZV9GgotaplQ/s200/minz+work+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225390477073899522" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Sketches of Siem Reap: A vase from the ceramics centre<br /></span></span></div><br />I think I might have been too comfortable with the laid back way of life in Siem Reap. This means that when I am back in Kuala Lumpur, I constantly need to be reminded that I can no longer cross the road with my eyes half closed, head turned elsewhere, hoping that motorcyclists and bicycles will slow down for me, as they have courteously done so in the past week.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVXtqUEZdB4jWMYAQP1M3M5FXnHw2j5E2VtbXtnyBQlN9z0fQ-BVCfFAhUy8dnWEHS9KwJGmgUxnZuQo3Zy5XKOTyuC0htayBU8Rbp6ZIWEu3KnI3kXqfiTlVWmCQ6v4n2ij0XtORgvI/s1600-h/minz+work+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVXtqUEZdB4jWMYAQP1M3M5FXnHw2j5E2VtbXtnyBQlN9z0fQ-BVCfFAhUy8dnWEHS9KwJGmgUxnZuQo3Zy5XKOTyuC0htayBU8Rbp6ZIWEu3KnI3kXqfiTlVWmCQ6v4n2ij0XtORgvI/s200/minz+work+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225391182231491874" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sketches of Siem Reap: A pencil shading of a stone carving at Angkor Wat</span></span><br /></div><br />As I complete my final entry as co-editor for this trip, my most vivid recollections of Siem Reap, in no particular order, are a compound of: -<br /><br />- the smoky, grilled chicken vendors we were bound to walk past at some point of the day<br />- la-di-da-ing to the Indiana Jones theme song on our first tuk-tuk ride<br />- the first stylish and hearty meal I had at the Khmer Family Restaurant<br />- the low-lying rainbow of heavenly beauty at Angkor, and oh boy, I could go on…<br /><br />Another great pleasure was working as the co-navigator with Maxine on our editorial magic school bus because we complemented one another. To my editorial buddies, Fabian, Kemi and Melanie, thanks very much for always being readily available to dwell straight into work mode and stay that way! As the days progressed, strong communication skills were evident between the photography, video and blog teams which made the trip a blast!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzoJB_BX0fdO8yq41kqfY2yAlmB2Z1zARtpQddrkjd32vlz43kv2eN7pluhgFTyAYaiFipyD4WmSOhRMj2yDNY3MhaBG2ZGSQGujQdf5tK0DiazUEufdSZvxla3z0nfd19hRXbSkp_pM/s1600-h/minz+work+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzoJB_BX0fdO8yq41kqfY2yAlmB2Z1zARtpQddrkjd32vlz43kv2eN7pluhgFTyAYaiFipyD4WmSOhRMj2yDNY3MhaBG2ZGSQGujQdf5tK0DiazUEufdSZvxla3z0nfd19hRXbSkp_pM/s200/minz+work+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225391299181879890" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sketches of Siem Reap: The roots of a tree trunk growing over the walls of Ta Prohm temple</span></span><br /></div><br />If you ask what I have taken away with me from Siem Reap, it would be a new page in my secret recipe book, a reviving drink I wish I could readily have right now - sugarcane juice with a tinge of lemon makes the world go round and round…<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">***<br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">by Maxine Lim</span><br /><br /><br />The journey, <em>In Search of Siem Reap</em>, through editing has been an interesting one at best. Like any other study trip, taking on the mantle as the co-pilot of this editing ship with Mindy has come with a lot of learning curves, from unexpected situations like viruses attacking our pictures to minor internal strife.<br /><br />In retrospect, I would not have given up any of the experiences I have gained in Siem Reap. It has been a challenge putting all sorts of journalistic theory into practice but what a worthwhile challenge it has been! It has taught me to better understand the human character and to roll with life's little surprises. Perhaps most importantly, I have learnt through observation, to adopt the Zen-like calmness of the truly inspiring Khmer people and their tenacity to always remain positive despite facing severe difficulties.<br /><br />There are so many people who have made it a joy to work with, in this trip. Of course, the main ones are our wonderful and tireless pool of editors, Fabian, Melanie and Kemi who throughout the course of this trip, worked as if they did not have the words 'Quit' or 'Tired' in their vocabulary at all! The support group of all the various departments, Video, Blog and Photography made editing a smoother job than it was.<br /><br />As I type this, I am reminded of time spent in the cyber café, bustling to and fro as we rushed to meet the deadlines and frantically working in tandem like a well-oiled Monash Machine that we were, to put up our stories on time. If I could preserve one lasting memory of our study trip, it would be this: To be surrounded by friends, working together with one aim in mind while we laughed over the events of the day and smiled apologetically at the cyber café owner for constantly staying past closing time.<br /><br />The walk back to Popular Guesthouse in the dead of night was a time for all of us to wind down, content with our day's work and looking forward to what tomorrow would bring. It has been an amazing journey. Until we meet again. Chum riep leah.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-47532594027505873682008-07-11T23:45:00.003+07:002008-07-14T00:05:51.632+07:00Beyond First Impressionsby Mindy Wong<br /><br /><br />As the saying goes, a picture tells a thousand words.<br /><br />The eighteen of us first encountered our student guides through passport-sized photographs they submitted. Upon meeting the student guides, however, we wanted to take newer photographs of them that could reflect their inner qualities without the following 600 words.<br /><br />Cooperative, knowledgeable and humble would incontestably be the best three words to describe our student guides.<br /><br />Bona, Borey, Bunneth, Kosal and Sorn have all given their 110% effort to help bridge the cultural space between us. Despite linguistic differences, they would always try their best to explain and clarify themselves. Our efficient student guides never failed to complete their tasks, whether to be the translator during interviews, to purchase phone cards, or to gather ticketing and transport information to Angkor Wat.<br /><br />"They were very informative, especially at Angkor Wat. Not only do they know the history of temples, they could explain the images and icons even. As well as the role of Hinduism and Buddhism in Cambodian history," said Melissa.<br /><br />Cambodian culture, lifestyle and politics are only some of the topics which are close to their hearts. As nationalistic individuals, they modestly share their knowledge with us, expecting only our desire to learn and to question.<br /><br />At first impression, some of us thought they were rather quiet and shy, rarely initiating to talk. As we investigated into the reasons behind this, Max found out that it is part our cultural differences.<br /><br />"According to Bona, Cambodians who have not been influenced by Western culture do not have the habit of saying hello. Their gesture to show friendliness is just to smile. So by not saying hello does not mean they're unfriendly," said Max.<br /><br />As such, we have come to understand why some of our interviewees gave short answers as well.<br /><br />In the first few days, both parties found it difficult to understand one another. However, the student guides made the effort to listen very carefully to us, while we spoke slowly and were very conscious about how we phrased our words.<br /><br />"My name is similar to Cambodian names so it's pretty cool," said Linda, who was the first person the student guides remembered.<br /><br />Learning our names proved to be rather challenging for them and this resulted in slight alterations to our names. For example, Aron became Iron, Melissa was pronounced as Malaysia and Fabian was spelt as Fibean. Once, Max was even mistaken for Maxine.<br /><br />During the course of eight days, we learnt about Cambodia's historical, political, social and cultural issues. Feeza has now become more aware of the hardship of the Cambodians and their preference for agriculture rather than higher levels of education. I have realized how well they preserve their culture and customs, such as not taking photos with three people.<br /><br />Apart from that, we have also gained invaluable acquaintances with our student guides. Borey shared stories with Melanie about her parents who survived the Khmer Rouge, while Dr Yeoh found out about tuk-tuk drivers from Sorn, whose uncle is a tuk-tuk driver. Sorn seemed the most affected by culture shock. His roommate, Aron, noticed how he much he enjoyed watching television. On the other hand, Bunneth is one of the most talkative of the bunch. As for Kosal, he was keen to share Cambodian politics and held strong political interest and perspectives. Bona was generous because, according to Max, he shared his shampoo as well as snacks.<br /><br />Some things were beyond our expectations. For one, we were surprised to see how they could tolerate 30 over degrees Celsius in long sleeves and blazers without a trickle of sweat. Conversely, we looked for every shade possible, hid behind our sunglasses and explored Siem Reap with sticky sweat print t-shirts. Melanie was perplexed by how some people could wear high heels with the road condition as such.<br /><br />"They're like Ninjas. They seem to whiz in and out without anybody noticing and suddenly, they're next to you," said Maxine.<br /><br />The student guides were mysterious, indeed.<br /><br />She added, "Despite not being able to communicate fluently, we learnt to understand each other through more than words, which made this experience more special."<br /><br />By the end of our journey, the student guides made drastic improvements and they have become much more fluent in English. We believe that they have learnt a new culture, interacted with energetic students from Monash, as well as made many new friends.<span style="font-style: italic;"> O-Kun</span> (thank you in Khmer) for enlightening us to the beauty of Cambodia and her people.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-51135686599330780802008-07-11T23:22:00.003+07:002008-07-13T09:40:53.775+07:00Our Student Guides: In Their Own Words<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">compiled by Melissa YF Wong</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Bunneth Siek</span><br /><br />My name is Bunneth, a recent undergraduate of the Royal University of Phnom Penh History. I am from the Southeast province of Kandal, roughly 60km from Phnom Penh.<br /><br />I am exceedingly pleased to meet and learn about my newfound friends from Malaysia. During my time with them, I feel satisfied that I am able to help them with getting to know Siem Reap and also to be able to assist them in their choice of interesting news stories that for the blog. Everybody is dedicated and responsible in the work they are assigned in addition to being friendly, active, brave, and well-organized.<br /><br />They also display a very amazing show of comradeship. The reason why I say this is because they seem to truly enjoy each other's company. The jokes they make as a result of what I suspect are derived from joyful personalities are inspiring to me. From them, I have learnt to be a little more outgoing and a little less shy. I hope the friendship will last forever.<br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Borey Yin</span><br /><br />Hello everyone, my name is Borey, also a year four student with the Department of History at the Royal University of Phnom Penh. I am glad to be in Siem Reap province with some students from Monash University Malaysia. All of them are very friendly especially Dr. Yeoh who I find is very active; he likes talking and I feel that I can learn a lot from him. Moreover, you all are so funny particularly Feeza and Melanie and I like their contagious laughter and I find myself laughing much more when I am with them.<br /><br />I also learn about Malaysia from my roommate Melissa. We exchanged our knowledge of Cambodia and Malaysia as well other countries such as Indonesia, Slovakia, Sri Lanka in dialogue with other Monash students. I feel proud that they have come to visit Cambodia, and with such a willingness to learn of our culture. I like that they enjoy the local cuisine and find pleasure when they compliment it. The trip to the Angkor Wat was particularly tiring for me but the atmosphere in the van picked me right up what with the jokes everyone was still in good humor to make despite being tired.<br /><br />I hope for a never-ending friendship and I wish my Malaysian friends all the best in their future undertakings.<br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Bona Hak</span><br /><br />Hi everyone! I am Bona, a student from Royal University of Phnom Penh in the studying second year history. I am exited to be guiding Malaysian university students for eight days under the leadership of Dr. Yeoh.<br /><br />I have learnt many things from the such as the sessions conducted at the of Centre of Khmer Study (CKS), COHRE (Centre of Housing Rights and Eviction), and training at Life and Hope Association. Moreover, we have joined for the Angkor Association for Disabled and interviewed the disabled people there and listen to the stories they have to tell.<br /><br />I feel that I have plenty of experiences to take back with me to Phnom Penh and I will share them with my friends. Within six days, I have discovered my Monash friends to be hardworking and friendly. Alhough we are so different culturally, we still find many things in common. I like the way they learn and more importantly, the way they are able to cooperate with each other and prioritise teamwork. I also find them helpful and accommodating.<br /><br />It's cool to be able to learn about other societies in my own country and especially through the eyes of foreigners who want to love it as much as I do.<br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Thach Sorn</span><br /><br />My name is Thach Sorn and I am also with the Royal University of Phnom Penh. I study History. I am very happy that I have the good opportunity to be a student guide for the students of Monash University. I felt nervous meeting them for the first time but I found them approachable and easygoing. Thus, my fear dissipated. The sessions I attended with them were very informative even for me as a Cambodian. I am also able to pick up some of the skill they were trying to practice such as interviewing and writing. The experience was certainly very educational.<br /><br />I felt happy going around Siem Reap with the students; in particular, to the Angkor Wat where I could demonstrate and apply the knowledge I have studied in my own university. I guess you could say that we had a healthy exchange of views both intellectually and socially.<br /><br />I would like to thank Dr. Yeoh for bringing my new friends to Cambodia and although we have not known each other long, I cherish the friendship and the hope of meeting all of you again.<br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Kosal Din</span><br /><br />Hello everybody. I'm Kosal Din. When I got to know from my brother that several students from Malaysia will be visiting Cambodia and a student guide was needed, I was very excited as I anticipated the prospect of making new friends and conversing to them in English which I seldom get to do.<br /><br />When all of us arrived at Siem Reap province on 4 July 2008, all that I had anticipated became reality. The highlight of my Siem Reap trip came yesterday with the visit to the temples of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon, Prah Khan, and Bakheng temple. Being able to explain the true Khmer experience in English to the students guide was especially fulfilling especially since I study History.<br /><br />I appreciate that Monash students want to learn about Cambodia especially our culture, traditions, history and workings of society. I hope my friends from Malaysia have enjoyed themselves as much as I have. Last but not least I wish everyone all the best in their studies.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-62554971606961603472008-07-10T23:30:00.008+07:002008-08-23T21:28:41.842+07:00Diary Entry: One Last Time Before We Head Back<em>by Melanie Chalil </em><br /><br /><br />The day started slow for most of us, after a very long day to Angkor Wat yesterday. A couple of us, self included, were up early tying up loose ends and meeting up with deadlines. I woke up feeling the aftermath of Angkor - my back and muscles ached from climbing steep stairs and endless walking. This, I will always remind myself, is nothing if compared to the hands that engineered the entire massive structure, pilling on huge blocks of stone on one another with flawless precision in the name of king and religion. Before beginning my writing duty, I stopped by Joe-to-Go, a coffee house that is non-profit.<br /><br />I instantly discovered that 100% of the proceeds will be donated to The Global Child organization. I find Joe-to-Go’s business concept very fascinating but more importantly, I admire how consumerist conventions are broken here. The money will be used to fund Khmer children’s education as a measure to eradicate poverty. Coffee drinking for me will never be the same again!<br /><br />At 2 pm, many of us headed back to the guesthouse for our cultural performance. We sat on the floor in the lobby practicing Rasa Sayang and traditional Dikir Barat dance moves. We clapped and sang away while the locals became our audience. After an hour or so, we were done practicing and enjoyed a little R & R.<br /><br />Rest and relaxation comes in many forms but here, haggling with the locals at the market becomes our form of entertainment. A couple of us visited a stall selling t-shirts. There are two ways to bargain successfully. The first is, quote a price and wait for the seller’s reply. If they refuse to accept your price, walk away. Chances are they will quickly quote you a lower price and you can resume your bargaining session.<br /><br />Ethan is particularly good at the second method. For lessons, please see him personally or bring him along. You first begin by asking them how much the product costs. Many sellers at the market increase their product’s price when tourists are present. Haggling is a test of one’s patience and endurance. Should the sellers slap you on your arm jokingly when you quote a price less than their expected one, do what Ethan did by telling them: “You hit me one more time, less one dollar.” Purchase more and chances are, the sellers are more willing to reduce the price.<br /><br />I have also observed the behaviour of certain Cambodians, namely our hotel staff and sellers at the market, during this trip. Often, when a question is asked, they will turn to their fellow local and speak in Khmer leaving you in a state of confusion. They will then turn to you and present their reply. (Ed: An experience of 'Lost in Translation')<br /><br />The evening was reserved for a ‘thank you’ dinner at the Temple Club. We dedicated the evening to our hospitable hosts and helpful student guides and performed a cultural show. The cultural team quickly made last minute amendments to performance to better suit the stage in the restaurant. Prior to that, we were entertained by Apsara dancers and other traditional performances.<br /><br />Our rehearsals paid off and as we walked off stage, a tourist told Feeza that our performance was very good. Towards the end of dinner, a signed group photograph was given to each student guide and host as a token of appreciation. The student guides helped each and every one of us to understand the Khmer culture. They were able to provide explanations about many things from the Angkor Wat to Apsara dancing. I believe Cambodia is fortunate to have these students as future historians and we back home can perhaps learn to appreciate our history as well.<br /><br />It is now 10.16 pm and I will sign off and walk down the streets of Siem Reap one last time before heading home tomorrow morning. Be it the dust, sunburn or aching limbs from visiting the Angkor Wat, I hope each of us will bring home a little bit of Cambodia with us.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_QaXseX-jOvc5yQZCjFM8fgWWEVKXAl2AUKmGstYYLAo2MtC6XYxIsr2y9VSAoiQvp6UIIZ8vzhrL09ht9oTxtIZlfrC5_GU4QI2l6tz_bREwjxmRczL3M6oOTB40mRY8lWylJgnMNc/s1600-h/mel's+diary+entry.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_QaXseX-jOvc5yQZCjFM8fgWWEVKXAl2AUKmGstYYLAo2MtC6XYxIsr2y9VSAoiQvp6UIIZ8vzhrL09ht9oTxtIZlfrC5_GU4QI2l6tz_bREwjxmRczL3M6oOTB40mRY8lWylJgnMNc/s400/mel's+diary+entry.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237719614482922338" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">His fault we're here =P<br />And his fault we'll never forget Cambodia<br /></span></span></div>Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-72012535925949340582008-07-10T23:21:00.003+07:002008-08-23T00:49:14.311+07:00Diary Entry: On Our Last Leg<span style="font-style: italic;">by Maxine Lim Jen Ai</span><br /><br /><br />I was planning how to write this diary entry for the whole day. I was pondering what I could mention about today that would be riveting, considering it is the Last Leg of our trip . If yesterday was a crazy whirlwind of visiting Angkor Wat and the circuit of magnificent temples, then today could be best described as the Day of Rest where we basically nursed our aching bodies and completed the rest of our shopping circuit.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_Q4EwKp2vX_v5XH1csp0vTm-L1ucI18RWeZXGvIWiH5WfjzhcuqpouM6Xh66EiY2IWG5cza-t6Ky1SXoDBzJdd-aiYDk1uFIny7-lglN7X9Kj1S5ZwrbCf8UZB-tWisa1N36X7PybIU/s1600-h/maxine's+diary+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_Q4EwKp2vX_v5XH1csp0vTm-L1ucI18RWeZXGvIWiH5WfjzhcuqpouM6Xh66EiY2IWG5cza-t6Ky1SXoDBzJdd-aiYDk1uFIny7-lglN7X9Kj1S5ZwrbCf8UZB-tWisa1N36X7PybIU/s320/maxine's+diary+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237399369812525522" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Old Market - good for your souvenirs!<br /></span></span></div><br />In the morning, we had ventured together to the Old Market, the veritable *gem* of a place to shop but soon split ways to hunt down our own souvenirs. I was in shopping paradise! Naturally before this we had discussed bargaining tactics, the novice hagglers learning the tricks of haggling from the experts.<br /><br />As such, I found myself employing every 'dirty tactic' in haggling for the best price. The most important tip is to always say something in local Khmer, like t'lai (cheaper) or ni sahs (university student) and smile liberally all the time. This generally gets you on the good side of the stall owners, which most often than not, leads to cheaper prices or at least, no hard feelings on both ends.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIAax46JpZzn7B5XqMcEXXQro8QzUjcxj6r2dA02e4AT4hHmqP-3JosoaJw9AZwBxLxjRE6DMjbZXZyLHaCE5hmrMomrG11xWLKmAcJWsQ0RlU59pFc84a45DlCBYxRoIZmepDU3oyfM/s1600-h/maxine's+diary+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIAax46JpZzn7B5XqMcEXXQro8QzUjcxj6r2dA02e4AT4hHmqP-3JosoaJw9AZwBxLxjRE6DMjbZXZyLHaCE5hmrMomrG11xWLKmAcJWsQ0RlU59pFc84a45DlCBYxRoIZmepDU3oyfM/s320/maxine's+diary+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237400102843413778" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Cambodian wares!</span><br /><br /></span></div>At the end of the haggling and purchasing session, we gathered together to peek at our purchases, which were varied from lovely cotton dresses, turtle-shaped compasses, Khmer silk scarves to silver rings. We managed to lug all of it back in time for our last practice for our Rasa Sayang performance tonight at two in the afternoon.<br /><br />It was another 'free show' for Popular Guesthouse with one resident eagerly filming us on his camcoder and the waitresses from the restaurant upstairs lingering by the staircase to catch a glimpse of our 'dikir barat'. Today, we even attracted the attention from the staff of the motel across the street with our singing and clapping. I was one part embarrassed, yet proud that we were in the limelight. Monash students, go!<br /><br />Right after that, some of us just chilled out in the guesthouse as the Siem Reap sun was back to greet us again with full force after a few days of cloudy weather. The rest of us were undeterred and left for Shopping Round 2.<br /><br />As for me, after hearing about the wonders of Cambodian massage, felt a terrible curiosity to try it out. Previously, I had scoffed at Dr. Yeoh's suggestion that we all go yesterday after the Angkor Wat to Bakheng Hill trek. My muscles were still good to go, or so I thought. After waking up this morning, however, I realized that I had to bow to the Man with Experience. My right arm felt like it had been chewed on and spat out by the crocodiles in Tonle Sap lake.<br /><br />Sometime in the evening, I ventured into the one next to the restaurant, Red Piano, after some recommendation from the Monash gang. It was an hour of pure bliss. If your idea of bliss is lying face down on a towel-covered pillow and having a petite lady beat your calves into submission with her feet, that is. Nevertheless, it was quite the experience and I half-dozed off, after getting used to my body being kneaded like dough.<br /><br />I was all ready for the performance in Temple Bar at 9.30pm. Dinner was a mix of enjoying our last Khmer meal and nervous anticipation from all the restaurant patrons watching us as we performed later. After the last picture-taking session with the Apsara dancers, we were ready to troop up on stage, Dr. Michael Sullivan looking at us amused from the audience and everyone else cheering us on. It was a flawless performance and we had an amazing reception. With our Krama's tied over our heads, we joked that we looked like dikir barat 'Rambos'.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYJO4pGs-3g5M2a8NCJ4Pto3RLRzIJY4UYOKopIahcfVsw-8FtP20sA14RL_VJYgBfP3ifnNaakukhvPI5YMdEKiXR9TOIe0TV-IMWUsO_muDPF5tOpq2734DBH9xlCoLXAzn47SA0BM/s1600-h/maxine's+diary+3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYJO4pGs-3g5M2a8NCJ4Pto3RLRzIJY4UYOKopIahcfVsw-8FtP20sA14RL_VJYgBfP3ifnNaakukhvPI5YMdEKiXR9TOIe0TV-IMWUsO_muDPF5tOpq2734DBH9xlCoLXAzn47SA0BM/s320/maxine's+diary+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237400110414421026" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Posing with the Apsara dancers.<br /></span></span></div><br />However, the best was yet to come. The last event was thanking and handing over the official group photographs to our trusty and well-loved student guides, Bunneth, Bona, Kosal, Borey and Sorn. We were well-acquainted with their individual personalities and were deeply touched to hear about their personal experiences with us and wishing us all well.<br /><br />At the end of the well-wishing, a group of us dutifully trouped to the cyber café to check the Monash examination results, which went up earlier today. Right after getting the good news, a bunch of us went straight up to Temple Restaurant and Bar to celebrate being graduates while the rest of us went for Shopping Round 3, all in a day's work.<br /><br />It is just 11pm now and the night is still young. A part of me is gunning to go back home. I miss Malaysia's chaotic yet organized traffic; I longed for our concrete jungle of air-conditioned shopping malls and yearned to encounter curt Malaysians who do not greet you on the streets of Kuala Lumpur with a smile. After a week away from home, sometimes you can miss the things you never realized you actually appreciated.<br /><br />However, Siem Reap is a crazy place that will get under your skin and to your heart. Who knows when we will meet again?Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-71735294852687578852008-07-10T23:16:00.007+07:002008-12-09T06:17:44.148+07:00Angkor Wat's Architecture<em>by Chong Su Lyn</em><br /><br /><br />It was not even the break of dawn and all 18 students from Monash who came to Siem Reap were geared up and ready to roar their way to Angkor Wat. It is said that the most magnificent view of Angkor Wat is during the sunrise. The particular image of the bright orange sun rising behind the Angkor Wat towers and painting the skies with a tinge of blue-ish purple splendor is worth the early wake up call.<br /><br />Angkor Wat or loosely translated as the 'The Pagoda of the City' has a very deep history that spans throughout the early 12th century. The temple was constructed during the reign of King Suryavarman II in order to pay respect to the Hindu Gods. In the brief 37 years during the King's reign, he made a relic that is recognized as one of the world's most famous architectural amazement until today. In the 21st century, Angkor Wat is known as the largest temple in the world. It is a masterpiece of ancient Khmer culture and is influenced by Indian architecture which can never be replicated. This precious gem is a treasure truly to behold.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdU6IKSFgLILk2Svjoy_Uu_EBaUTUKJih3Cai11qao6SI6euaf2mSg_HI1tFviClhLpFubUHot3rJtF5GsyYH4h4HB1BK7MObDxjDkVb-eUGerMOcwOrf9x6-4dXqdcdOOw_tTiDQ_OVQ/s1600-h/Angkor+Wat+full+glory.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdU6IKSFgLILk2Svjoy_Uu_EBaUTUKJih3Cai11qao6SI6euaf2mSg_HI1tFviClhLpFubUHot3rJtF5GsyYH4h4HB1BK7MObDxjDkVb-eUGerMOcwOrf9x6-4dXqdcdOOw_tTiDQ_OVQ/s400/Angkor+Wat+full+glory.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224472196522426898" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Angkor Wat in all its majesty.</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span></div>Angkor Wat is a gigantic three-tiered pyramid. It is creatively crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level. Surrounding the Wat itself is a moat which is 4 miles in length and 600 feet in width while the exterior wall measures 1300 meters x 1500 meters. The magnificent architecture itself is 1 km square and consists of three levels surmounted by a central tower. It is said that the Angkor Wat actually symbolizes the Mountain Meru – the home of Gods where the central quincunx of five towers is supposedly to represent the five peaks of the mountain. While the outer wall and the moat subsequently represents the end of the world as well as the ocean that surrounds it.<br /><br />What makes this temple stand apart from the other temples throughout the world is the architectural significance in which the temple is constructed facing the West instead of the East. It is a unique blend of the temple mountain – the standard design for the Angkor empire's state temples, and influences from Orissa and the Chola of Tamil Nadu, India. Further evidence to this specialty is the display of bas-reliefs that lines the north, south, east and west walls – which proceed in a counter-clockwise direction. Also known as the prasavya in Hindu terminology as this is the reverse of the normal order.<br /><br />The main building materials used to construct Angkor Wat are sandstones rather than brick or laterite. Most of the visible areas are made of sandstone blocks while laterite was still used to build the outer walls and also the hidden structural parts. We were informed and also observed that this is because the sandstone blocks less porous than laterite blocks and much more able to withstand the ravages of time.<br /><br />Angkor Wat consists of half galleries that broaden passageways, while there are axial galleries that connect each enclosure to another. There is also a terrace present along the main axis where carvings of dertas and apsaras are clearly featured. There are also narrative scenes on the 'pendiments' such as the mythological Battle of Kuru on the west wall - the historical march of the army of Suryavarman II, scenes from Heaven and Hell on the south wall and last but not least, the classic 'Churning of the Ocean Milk' on the east wall. The temple interior is not densely carved but still sports hundreds of fine carvings of Apsaras and scenes from Hindu mythology. The center tower, on the third level on the other hand, houses four Buddha images. Each of these Buddha images faces different cardinal points highlighting intensely that Angkor Wat was constructed as a Hindu temple.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBOJarCk4PAcnvF1lTc8kxeDyRr5uOmXl1-3FpFiw1WHqKL966NwHh1lW1iqZFsljGO6vJ8Epk7_S9IJwWRXNLszFj-wy3rkjDmHRDh-QpNqeOtA31eGCuzd097ywna_412Z16joRt7OA/s1600-h/apsaras2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBOJarCk4PAcnvF1lTc8kxeDyRr5uOmXl1-3FpFiw1WHqKL966NwHh1lW1iqZFsljGO6vJ8Epk7_S9IJwWRXNLszFj-wy3rkjDmHRDh-QpNqeOtA31eGCuzd097ywna_412Z16joRt7OA/s320/apsaras2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237401073415436258" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">You can find these Apsara carvings round every corner.<br /></span></span></div><br />In the first enclosure of Angkor Wat, a series of four rooms arranged in cruciform formation is apparent. These rooms feature sunken floors and continuous galleries. While the inner enclosure rests on an 11 meter tall two-tiered pyramid. It features a really steep staircase leading up to the enclosure. It also houses a continuous galleries in upper encases which is also aligned in a four room cruciform formation. The five tiers that is clearly apparent from outside juts out from these upper tiers. These cruciform houses used to house lots of shrines.<br /><br />It might not have made it into the list of the New Seven Wonders of the World, but it certainly has made a great impression and impact on culture in and around Asia. I feel that it is a major attraction in Siem Reap, as well as a big money maker for the government of Cambodia, clearly has not lessen any of its' religious significance. People from around the world still do come over in search of peace and tranquility said to be found in Angkor Wat. But for the 18 students of Monash University, Malaysia, we came in search of Siem Reap and what we got in return was a great and wonderful experience never to be forgotten in the magical land of Angkor Wat.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">(Ed.: The New Seven Wonders of the World was declared on the 7th of July, 2007 in Lisbon after a 'global' election took place online. Angkor Wat didn't make it but it was a finalist.)</span>Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-80791649355423465542008-07-10T23:13:00.006+07:002008-12-09T06:17:44.526+07:00Angkor Temples and the Bas-Reliefs<span style="font-style: italic;">by Fabian Klavert </span><br /><br /><br />When entering any temples within the Angkor complex in Siem Reap, aside from the mesmerizing architecture, the first things you would notice are the intricate details of the stone carved murals. Each uniquely hand carved during different reigns of Angkor kings, the bas-reliefs often suits the purpose of serving religious beliefs, validating these historical landmarks as a successful outlet for religious expression.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNHnGlck2duP_6hIITVfVM6VA4sNRIhOczSt5rSy7RdDC5n4d880hcOY5ysRUBZmh9qw0F6_-qUFY0vzLdF7vAn7-mdi0vsVSc1hV-U5BL_6a-pz49GPsmsgRc7zvR0i5RcqGeHSY7lg/s1600-h/bas+relief+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNHnGlck2duP_6hIITVfVM6VA4sNRIhOczSt5rSy7RdDC5n4d880hcOY5ysRUBZmh9qw0F6_-qUFY0vzLdF7vAn7-mdi0vsVSc1hV-U5BL_6a-pz49GPsmsgRc7zvR0i5RcqGeHSY7lg/s400/bas+relief+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224471530229756034" border="0" /></a><br />Although the walls have stood still for countless centuries, stories written in stones within these hand carved murals have lived on to tell the tales of ancient Angkor civilization, uncovering historic events, cultural beliefs, and important figures which nowadays still fascinate archeologists, historians, and even tourists.<br /><br />The most famous of them all, the Angkor Wat was built in early 12th century by King Suryavarman II as the state's temple and capital city. Separated by three different tiers and enclosed in a man made moat, each level and wings of the temple distinctively depicts various Hindu mythologies as a dedication to the Hindu gods, particularly Vishnu.<br /><br />From the battle of the gods to the famous 'Churning of the Ocean Milk' in the east gallery, a <a href="http://www.veloasia.com/library/buckley/churning_milk.html">uniform motif</a> bounding these epic tales are the Apsaras. A Hindu mythological creature said to have been released due to the churning of the ocean milk to acquire an elixir of immortality, these celestial figures are scattered throughout Angkor Wat and all temples in Angkor.<br /><br />Depicted as proficient dancers, each of Angkor Wat's apsaras are unique. With around 1700 figures lovingly hand carved, the elaborate headwear, jewelry, body posture and facial expressions define each one, whether they appear in duet, trios or solo. The dance offered to the Gods by apsaras have transformed into the Khmer traditional dance and one of Cambodia's main attraction.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-J_F9zxsvehqTtfVI8MTt-mbAE9rRvfXT2bKKT0aElxRQTuA8s7aO5lw6mxeUEkhfa-sFkLeyBoy-XwiJ4u51TBEjR9ZekbZZ_p4MGtcsk_xGAyplzwBKyvbo11t4wLkaUIP6p2bTYU/s1600-h/bas+relief+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-J_F9zxsvehqTtfVI8MTt-mbAE9rRvfXT2bKKT0aElxRQTuA8s7aO5lw6mxeUEkhfa-sFkLeyBoy-XwiJ4u51TBEjR9ZekbZZ_p4MGtcsk_xGAyplzwBKyvbo11t4wLkaUIP6p2bTYU/s320/bas+relief+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237401837735366770" border="0" /></a><br />While Angkor Wat focused on the depictions of aspects of Hinduism, Bayon temple, located at the heart of Angkor Thom, approximately 1500 meters from the south gate. Built by Jayavarman VII in the late 12th to early 13th century, the temple's bas-reliefs are dominated by the influence of Buddhism. The Bayon is broken down into three different section: the outer gallery, the inner gallery, and the upper terrace.<br /><br />The outer gallery depicts the everyday lifestyle of the Angkor civilization in addition to historic events. This includes but are not limited to market and trading scenes, cockfights, festivals, and scenes with battles and processions. Each stone panel weaves a complicated tale of history and mythology. Figures within the outer gallery are easier to decipher due to its simplicity.<br /><br />Personally, I feel that a quick research on historical knowledge of Buddhist and Hindu mythologies is recommended to understand bas-reliefs in the inner gallery, before you visit Angkor Wat. The inner gallery portrays similar mythologies as Angkor Wat's, with one being the Churning of The Ocean Milk located in the north of the western gapura.<br /><br />On the other hand, the upper terrace of Bayon, aside from the common apsara motif on top of gapuras, is devoted to the sculpture of numerous Buddha heads on top of elevated towers. The 56 hand-sculpted heads, each representing different provinces of Cambodia, has become the central attraction of Bayon. The faces on the stone towers are arguably to be either the depiction of Jayavarman VII, founder of the temple or the Buddha of compassion, Avalokiteśvara. Simply put, it is these hand carved that makes the Bayon an incredible sight to see.<br /><br />Another temple also built between the 12th and 13th century by Jayavarman VII and my personal favorite, is the Ta Prohm (Ed: Made famous by Tomb Raider and of course, Angelina Jolie) . Scattered throughout the jungle, the moss covered stones and tree barks that envelope the ruins gives it a certain ethereal beauty that distinguishes Ta Prohm from other temples.<br /><br />Unlike other temples, the layout of Ta Prohm is a flat style in contrast to Angkor Wat and Bayon's multi-tiered pyramid. Aside from the common motifs in Khmer architecture, Ta Prohm hides deep secrets as there are few narrative bas-reliefs. This is due to Hindu iconoclasts destroying Buddhist narrative murals in Ta Prohm after the death of Jayavarman VII in 1215.<br /><br />Nevertheless, it was breathtaking to see the convergence of green and gray, making this manmade landmark seem to belong to the bosom of nature itself. The compilation of bas-reliefs within the Angkor complex forms a gigantic story book of the history of ancient Angkor civilization. It is all illustrated to avoid mundane word by word reading. It does not require you to flip pages. It cannot be misplaced. And it will definitely be there whenever needed.<br /><br />Pretty genius right?Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-90542787084282449772008-07-10T23:11:00.003+07:002008-08-23T01:03:23.276+07:00The Angkor Wat: Culture and Heritage For Sale?<span style="font-style: italic;">by Melanie A. Chalil<br /></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMiVlqMv4bovPd9AzUku3WTEfcO1NPkNVVi88cWnXBMO4-16K07KOz3Y0TB7dHILNl_ZBz0D6BEARoWlfB8dLADfjwmCPrkYGTnoGO7o_bSxrhzqxhy0fM10y0TEOqPFCtyIYvhBYwlXI/s1600-h/melanie+1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMiVlqMv4bovPd9AzUku3WTEfcO1NPkNVVi88cWnXBMO4-16K07KOz3Y0TB7dHILNl_ZBz0D6BEARoWlfB8dLADfjwmCPrkYGTnoGO7o_bSxrhzqxhy0fM10y0TEOqPFCtyIYvhBYwlXI/s320/melanie+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237402606845038162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">This is what the world comes to see.</span><br /></div><br />The monumental Angkor Wat is an image that cannot be separated from Cambodia. Situated in the city of Siem Reap, this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts visitors from all over the globe throughout the year. If Cambodia runs on tourism, then Angkor Wat is the heart of the nation. In 2004, the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism estimated a figure of 309, 373 tourists that visited Siem Reap. In the following year, the number increased to 440, 125.<br /><br />Although it is a well-known structure today, it is hard to believe that the temple was once abandoned in 1432. Henri Mouhout, a French explorer, brought the Angkor Wat to the world's attention in 1860. Fascinated, the French people funded and managed an extensive restoration project. There is a disturbing sense in discovery. I say this because, discovery leads to opportunity and opportunity leads to exploitation. But what is exploited here, you may ask?<br /><br />For countries that depends on tourism, inevitably, culture and heritage becomes their main commodity just as certain countries' economies depend on oil. The Angkor Wat's icon is seen everywhere. On beer, clothing, hotels and even Hollywood motion pictures. The publicity and attention Angkor receives is astounding. I seized the chance to interview some tourists who visited Angkor Wat.<br /><br />Ruth Bupenzer from Germany said, "Opening Angkor Wat for public access is a good way to earn money."<br /><br />It may do wonders for one's economy but there are certain economic repercussions that follows it.<br /><br />One such repercussion concerning this is the field of art dealing, art collecting and auctions, that are usually kept exclusive to the affluent. The income generated by dealing art is extraordinary, which brings me to the point about looting historical artifacts. The World Archaeological Congress states that economic problems lead to illegal trafficking of antiquities. In Asia, cities that are well-known for antique trading are Bangkok, Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxGmWYQbMk1w-hf0TXPp2oHk8kRGJzl4Dm7DwZh2aEsxFBpC_0vkHEq_c5dE4gDvTNj9qx_Q4i12Ex6M_ioBgc5Ye2U4eSknbvmrFuvUwt9UgcAmLnMsNBJblr-eYKREmYE3DGl3DWv4/s1600-h/melanie+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxGmWYQbMk1w-hf0TXPp2oHk8kRGJzl4Dm7DwZh2aEsxFBpC_0vkHEq_c5dE4gDvTNj9qx_Q4i12Ex6M_ioBgc5Ye2U4eSknbvmrFuvUwt9UgcAmLnMsNBJblr-eYKREmYE3DGl3DWv4/s320/melanie+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237403249541185058" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">A dollar a picture - or was it two dollars?</span><br /></span></div><br /><br />Cambodia possesses some of the most admired and desired treasures for art dealers and collectors. When there is demand, there is financial opportunity and thus, one must provide supply. Some of most commonly stolen ancient artifacts are pottery, stone-axes, beads, bronze axes and sculptures. This will cause destruction in one of the most important ancient civilization's history. Until one understands the value of cultural property, only then works of art can be appreciated.<br /><br />Measures have been taken to prevent and reduce raiding. Recently, UNESCO came up with a web page that documents all Khmer artifacts from known archaeological sites. Many of the statues found in Angkor have been relocated to museums.<br /><br />The opening of Angkor Wat for public access is a good approach to educate the globalizing world about the past. But I was rather surprised that the walls of the temples were exposed to human contact. The layer of oil on our bodies is detrimental to the already fragile age of the building.<br /><br />Sor Brakord, a supervisor at the entrance added, "I don't want them [visitors] to touch anything but it's unavoidable."<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavkTFmnIHqhGaCiQoNLcTDXCH7yNtXt73eBmfIE3LcjFOEIzCOYW4HPlCeyODgMuwAyVxfJLNuwK6iUaxofusl4VecOSVGEvicR3l1Ur_OYGOF3x6bT4GXQ3_dXe0z9GLP_kpY1Im4hk/s1600-h/no+climbing.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavkTFmnIHqhGaCiQoNLcTDXCH7yNtXt73eBmfIE3LcjFOEIzCOYW4HPlCeyODgMuwAyVxfJLNuwK6iUaxofusl4VecOSVGEvicR3l1Ur_OYGOF3x6bT4GXQ3_dXe0z9GLP_kpY1Im4hk/s320/no+climbing.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237403250354541490" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Signs like these are everywhere - but people seem to ignore them.<br /><br /></span></span></div><br />As I explored the place, I did not encounter any signs preventing people from touching the bas reliefs. Styers Els from Belgium who visited with her family believes that visitors must respect the temples.<br /><br />Pollution also becomes a concern when there is a massive amount of visitors. Veronique Eurbin who came to the Angkor Wat with her son said, "The area was a little polluted and the cars and tuk-tuks should wait away from the temple's site." The French-woman used to live in Laos for 10 years and was intrigued by her friends' visit to Angkor. Her son added that only bicycles should be allowed in the temple's surrounding area.<br /><br />The Angkor Wat is our bridge to the Khmer civilization's past. Its infinite majesty is witness to a changing nation – from god-like Kings to communists and now, tourists. For me, it is not about the scale of its architecture but I admire art's immortality. Bupenzer mentioned that, "A beautiful thing [monument] has to be made public to the world but it must be protected and guarded." Her reply is spot-on in terms of responsible exhibition.<br /><br />Western history classes will tell you that art is a reflection of a country's wealth. There is much truth in that. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where Rembrandt's Night Watch is exhibited, is unable to quote a price for the famed painting. To the Dutch, it is priceless. The Angkor Wat, to Cambodians and the world should be too.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-9704486452329964642008-07-09T23:40:00.007+07:002008-12-09T06:17:45.361+07:00Diary Entry: A Little Taste of Tomb Raider - Angkor Wat<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Bats Mohsinali</span><br /><br /><br />After about five days of being in Cambodia, we finally visited the most anticipated visit to Angkor Wat. Yes, the same Angkor Wat that was featured in the movie Tomb raider, starring Angelina Jolie, and Daniel Craig released in 2001.<br /><br />When I initially watched the movie, I was truly flabbergasted. It was magnificent. The fighting scenes were amazing and the temples that were featured were breathtaking. After watching the movie, my expectations of Angkor Wat were very high.<br /><br />Today, what I saw in the cinema came true to life.<br /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifnyUHp1aGFgSpCkBHbqt78LNuNNpT1nBpHxbBnZ_BQ9Kuz0QZR8rEHkQG1lr7x-cjNIq6xD9ZvV8gKm14G5upfFaToyluf8mrYRo-geI_Hi45SzKbph0pXJcuroGLPsX0EVT53MvtQOk/s1600-h/bats3.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221272004194916706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifnyUHp1aGFgSpCkBHbqt78LNuNNpT1nBpHxbBnZ_BQ9Kuz0QZR8rEHkQG1lr7x-cjNIq6xD9ZvV8gKm14G5upfFaToyluf8mrYRo-geI_Hi45SzKbph0pXJcuroGLPsX0EVT53MvtQOk/s400/bats3.JPG" border="0" /></a> <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic"></span><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic;font-size:85%;" >Scene at Ta Prohm made famous in Tomb Raider</span><br /></div><br /><br />We started our journey before the crack of dawn, meeting up at the guest house lobby at 4:15 am, with the intention of arriving in time for the sunrise. Soon we were off; it took about half an hour to reach. Along the way we saw a different side of Siem Reap, the more quiet side to it.<br /><br />At the entrance of the Angkor district we paid USD 20 for the single day pass. However, two day and up to one week passes were available for purchase. After receiving our ticket, that covers entry into all the parts of the Angkor district, we were stopped at the main gate, while our tickets were checked. This is the case with all the entrances that lie in the Angkor district. Each time you enter a new temple there are guards to check your ticket. So, it was wise it to keep it at an easy reach.<br /><br />Since it had rained the night before and heavily I might add, the ground was still moist. So for those who were there with their flip-flops I can say for a fact that it must have been really hard, because even with sneakers, the wet ground was hard to walk upon. Although most of us were running on low energy and sleep deprivation, the sight of the Angkor Wat as we reached made all of us giddy with excitement. Giddy, because we had lack of sleep from the night before.<br /><br />As we reached the Angkor Wat, I was amazed to see how the sunrise brightened the temple, no one could have painted a better picture. Although the sunrise was blocked by the surrounding trees and temples, we still managed to get some brilliant pictures. As dawn broke and the light began to settle in, we made our way into the temple.<br /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCEVsAYtXDNfTtLRKN0nGJjv13yxV1wsNEjQnuOxz0WoRbpq-tL7BFRBVV0w0f_EU3er9k_49v8apa0sL4CGMaP6ShqXsY3mdnpRMTiwOFR8P_m5LGJ7ASECO5C4FWk2Gq3HUilHFrf0/s1600-h/bats1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221270281338029074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCEVsAYtXDNfTtLRKN0nGJjv13yxV1wsNEjQnuOxz0WoRbpq-tL7BFRBVV0w0f_EU3er9k_49v8apa0sL4CGMaP6ShqXsY3mdnpRMTiwOFR8P_m5LGJ7ASECO5C4FWk2Gq3HUilHFrf0/s400/bats1.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Sunrise over the Angkor Wat</span></span><br /></div><br /><br />The intricate and detailed carvings on the stones have been part of the splendor that makes the Angkor Wat. Each stone has individual motifs and unique details. One of the carvings told a story of the many wars fought by the King Suryavarman II, about the losses and battles won. We did not dwell on the temple Angkor for too long, in search for knowledge about other temples in Ang Kor. A central theme of carvings was the Apsara dancers, a traditional dance of Cambodia. Many small carvings of Buddha in different positions graced the walls that in turn make it a very classical style of Khmer architecture.<br /><br />After breakfast at one the many restaurants there, we made our way to the Bayon temple. This is another one of the most famous temples, in the Angkor district. The highlight of Bayon is the giant faces that are carved on all four sides of the stone temples. Not all of them have the four-sided face, yet the ones that do are believed to be either the faces of Loksvara, or perhaps a combination of Buddha and Jayavarman VII. The centre of the Bayon represents Angkor City, while the 56 temples around the Angkor City represents the total number of provinces at the time it was built. However, to date, there are only 24 provinces.<br /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2irx3_kX9kYEHbcSxOLaAbC121DInq2ka_CkCUAvvTWHXN8D_JRlJ-MCvbZsTBaILDeRATI_3dBzS4qbKO3yeBIm9OMfyi3ZJvRIlcCMshU49n7wKnHrbmXpdZjNP3QENJqrJgGsHC8/s1600-h/bats2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221270288787149810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2irx3_kX9kYEHbcSxOLaAbC121DInq2ka_CkCUAvvTWHXN8D_JRlJ-MCvbZsTBaILDeRATI_3dBzS4qbKO3yeBIm9OMfyi3ZJvRIlcCMshU49n7wKnHrbmXpdZjNP3QENJqrJgGsHC8/s400/bats2.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Bayon's many faces</span></span> </div><br /><br />A lot of attention and care had to be taken as we walked around and climbed through the temples, the mossy grounds were slippery. If one does not pay attention, he or she are more prone to accidents, such as slipping or missing a step. A recent incident that occured happened to a man while he was climbing down one of the steep steps in the Angkor temple. Sadly, the man died. As such, there were certain areas of the Angkor Wat that was sealed off to the general public. Apart from that, the steep steps can a bit unstable. It makes it harder to get to your destination.<br /><br />The Elephant Terrace, can be easily identified in the Angkor district by the elephant carvings. The name was derived from the sport that was played there during the time of the King Suryavarman II, where he would sit on a high pedestal with his ministers and concubines to either sides of him, as they watch elephants battle each other out. This is a massive area and the open space has now been housed with parked vans, tuk-tuks and vendors.<br /><br />The Ta Prohm, the third temple of our visit was the temple that was featured in Tomb Raider. A key scene in the Angelina Jolie movie was featured there. Here, the temple blends in with Mother Nature as big trees grow through the temple carvings further deteriorating the temple, but somehow it looks natural, and also very beautiful. It is the perfect setting to take pictures.<br /><br />After the Ta Prohm, we went to the Bat Chum, which was not much of a sight after the three other temples, so we didn’t really stay for too long. The only thing about this temple was the sense of serenity from walking through its walkways.<br /><br />After a tiring day of climbing, running, and walking I had no energy to go to the last and final sight, the Bakheng Hill, where we can see the entire city of Siem reap. The main attraction here is the setting of the sun, but with the rain clouds, nothing could be seen.<br /><br />“It was a spectacular view of Cambodia, from a bird’s eye view” said Max Tan, a student of Monash University.<br /><br />Although I didn’t go to that, I didn’t miss much, the main attractions were enough to satisfy me and it was a perfect end to my journey here in Siem Reap, Cambodia.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-6738747074759057102008-07-09T23:39:00.002+07:002008-08-23T00:42:56.120+07:00One Million Landmines. One Hundred Families. One Victim.<span style="font-style: italic;">by Kathleen Tan</span><br /><br /><br />Picture this: a young boy, around eight years old but small and skinny for his age, is sitting by a window in his house. His eyes are trained on the children playing outside, children with whom he too used to play. But the children no longer call him to join them; when once he was their closest friend, now they avoid him like the plague.<br /><br />Sadness and wistfulness flood his heart as he continues to watch them – while he unconsciously nurses the stump that was once his right leg. As surreal as that sounds, it is unfortunately a real story. And that young boy has grown up to be twenty-one-year-old Hort Hak, merely one out of the hundreds of landmine victims in Cambodia.<br /><br />Hort’s tragic tale is a common one in Cambodia, where between six to seven million active landmines remain hidden all over the country. With so many yet to be detected, it is no surprise that landmine accidents occur frequently, resulting in the deaths of at least two people per day. And those who manage to survive wind up spending the rest of their lives on crutches or in wheelchairs, having lost an arm or a leg or even both at the same time.<br /><br />The sad truth is that for many, the loss of their limbs is often considered a fate worse than death. By being “incomplete”, so to speak, it becomes very hard for them to find jobs, which subsequently leads to the lack of any steady income, the lack of any “normal” sort of lifestyle, even the lack of any real hope – and most eventually resort to begging on the streets in search of a handout.<br /><br />Nevertheless, there are others who view their loss of limbs in a more positive manner. While their lives may no longer be the same as they were before their accidents, they are still able to find ways to retain their sense of dignity and self-respect.<br /><br />And Hort is one such example.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTefLg8udnO3_R2T3W4XtjChbaSTU0SAoEyqwYbUutfukzi6REhe7BhbdAXI8WpRFFdDc8dmKC-Tm2X6GS0GkDCtYNIwrhJFG0Omo_2KW3xVIpV7bBGHtzNLaL4gaCppcV03Ggmt9DClw/s1600-h/Hort+Hak.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTefLg8udnO3_R2T3W4XtjChbaSTU0SAoEyqwYbUutfukzi6REhe7BhbdAXI8WpRFFdDc8dmKC-Tm2X6GS0GkDCtYNIwrhJFG0Omo_2KW3xVIpV7bBGHtzNLaL4gaCppcV03Ggmt9DClw/s320/Hort+Hak.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237398754376807378" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Hort Hak</span></span><br /><br /></div>That is not to say his life has been a bed of roses. In a village of one hundred families, which is surrounded by fields containing one million active landmines, Hort happens to be the first and only landmine victim among them. That kind of notoriety brought him to the attention of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) who consequently provided him with aid. Yet, at the same time, it was a long time before he was accepted by his own fellow villagers, who shunned and ignored him because his missing leg made them uncomfortable – and for some, even fearful.<br /><br />Despite it all, however, Hort considers himself very, very fortunate: fortunate to be alive, as the same mine which took his leg also took the lives of his older brother and sister; fortunate to be educated, as his schooling – where he also began to pick up English and fortunate to walk again, as he was presented with a free prosthetic leg by Handicap International when he was fourteen. Lastly, Hort is especially fortunate for the chance to make a decent living again.<br /><br />In fact, Hort has been working since he was twelve. His first job was with the landmine museum in Siem Reap, where he worked as a guide for the tourists. It was an experience he very much enjoyed, as the interaction with the tourists did more to boost his spirits than anything else ever did. Furthermore, not only was he able to practice his halting English by conversing with these tourists, he was also able to share his story with them, thereby spreading awareness on the dangers of these landmines in Cambodia.<br /><br />Spreading awareness is indeed something very important for Hort, as his dream is to ultimately start a special education and training fund for children who, like him, are surviving landmine victims. He knows just how difficult it is for landmine victims to live independently in Cambodia, so his intention is to start educating and training young children with the knowledge and skills that will ensure their future, regardless of whether they are without a limb or two.<br /><br />“It won’t be easy, I know,” he says. “But in future, I like to help my country, just like how people help me.”Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-66926930734356079882008-07-09T23:28:00.004+07:002008-12-09T06:17:45.862+07:00The Man With Nine Lives<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Bats Mohsinali</span><br /><br /><br />Although it has been thirteen years since the civil war under Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge reign has ended, the casualties and memories live on.<br /><br />We met up with Moun Sinath, a caretaker and guide of the war museum in Siem Reap, Cambodia. He had a lot of tales to tell us about his colourful life and his own experiences with war.<br /><br />"Some people call me a cat, a cat has nine lives," he said at first.<br /><br />A living and breathing proof of the effects of war, Sinath proudly shows off his war scars. "I got shot in the stomach and the doctor said that if I was ten minutes late, then he would have sent me to the grave to bury me. But he tried again and again, he pumped blood into my heart, and so I finally survived," said Sinath.<br /><br />"I don't have a gall bladder" he adds, rather nonchalantly.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKn6INKgJdwRpY_4xwAxOGH3kU8FqOyPfSkmg3QX8Xp9YNvP0dPeoIbrJar54-8I-2xPPltGpqpfhDsp08ohITaLF3DUCJpi5nQP_Tcpe6Ueof2uwHvdaFVp5I94zfGIPZeUZ0WqV6k8/s1600-h/Bats1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221265819992038978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKn6INKgJdwRpY_4xwAxOGH3kU8FqOyPfSkmg3QX8Xp9YNvP0dPeoIbrJar54-8I-2xPPltGpqpfhDsp08ohITaLF3DUCJpi5nQP_Tcpe6Ueof2uwHvdaFVp5I94zfGIPZeUZ0WqV6k8/s400/Bats1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Saloth Sar, better known as Pol Pot (May 19, 1925 – April 15, 1998) was the leader of the communist movement known as the Khmer Rouge. Dominated during 1975-1979, the Khmer Rouge led by Pol Pot seized control of Phnom Penh in 1975 and overthrew the premier of Cambodia at the time, Lon Nol, who was backed up by the U.S. government.<br /><br />In 1979, after an invasion by Vietnam, Pol Pot fled into the jungles of southwest Cambodia, leading to the fall of the Khmer Rouge government. In 1997, he was arrested and imprisoned by Ta mok, the Khmer Rouge millitary commande, and finally passed away under house arrest in 1998 under house arrest. Under his reign, the people of Cambodia suffered from starvation, political executions and even forced labor. An estimated death toll of 750,000 to about 1.7 million people were killed. This was about 26 per cent of the population at the time.<br /><br />"I lost my entire family when I was ten." He noted. Though most war victims would be psychologically traumatized, Sinath showed no remorse and carries on with his life.<br /><br />"I have only two years left until I become completely blind. My right eye has lost sight after a bomb exploded and shards of bone from my leg went to my eye. My left eye can only see 60 per cent," he said.<br /><br />Moreover in 1987, Sinath took a bullet in his knee.<br /><br />"There (he points to the flesh between his kneecaps) is a ball bearing, there is another in my wrist," he stretches out his battle wounds for us to see.<br /><br />In 1985, he recalls while proudly showing off the scar was the time that he had gotten a hip bone operation also after another landmine attack.<br /><br />"My heart stopped three times, and the operation took five hours," he said.<br /><br />Countless times Sinath has cheated death, yet he lives to tell the tale. As though he has nothing to fear and nothing to lose, Sinath told his story with an eerie calm. As the manager and tour guide to the war museum, Sinath overlooks the working of the museum, not the typical and conventional museum; the war museum lacks the feel of a swanky, air-conditioned room that usually makes the typical museum.<br /><br />After paying the three dollar entrance fee, you are welcomed by an enormous helicopter, one that sits, unused and full of memories of carnage and destruction. The plane that sits across it holds just about the same amount of weight. After taking all of that in, you move on to the open space museum that is the actual war museum.<br /><br />Heavy duty war artillery and machinery sit motionless, just like the helicopter and plane, rusted, broken down, used yet full of memories of their very own. Amongst the green grass and open space they look out of place. That is when the real and full effects of war will hit you. Dwelling deeper into the museum, some of the war relics have barricades on them.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNNlSS62TUY3cLwhECmUm5tfxjt_2kFRlnBwmGUps1OX8QV_ZCmnaZSt2_JPAptspWDxl9y0uKg0vy5ApM8rdKwtqTcrF0bh-oDtx2OlUC3fhyB93NjzmGIlmVfDu8o4pUYrZb4nR-pI/s1600-h/Bats2.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221265823490125778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNNlSS62TUY3cLwhECmUm5tfxjt_2kFRlnBwmGUps1OX8QV_ZCmnaZSt2_JPAptspWDxl9y0uKg0vy5ApM8rdKwtqTcrF0bh-oDtx2OlUC3fhyB93NjzmGIlmVfDu8o4pUYrZb4nR-pI/s400/Bats2.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The reason for this is the continuing existence of landmines. Even though some of the landmines have been detonated and de-mined, they are left behind as a bitter reminder of their suffering. Further along is a display of a make believe man with a mine detector machine. The story behind this was as the man was looking for mines to de-mine, unknowingly one blew up on him. This, according to Sinath is the case with most was victims.<br /><br />A large amount of victims can be seen around the town of Siem Reap. Sinath himself is an amputee, yet once again that has not stopped him. With the aid of a wooden leg, Sinath goes about his daily business. He touched upon the time when he learned to speak English "I was recovering in the hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. I have been to Thailand, yet I have never seen it. I simply heard and smelt it," he laughs. "It was during my recovery time that I learnt to speak English, by listening to other people converse."<br /><br />Moun Sinath is a living war relic. Although he has survived, the after effects continue to taunt him, but like a handful of the landmine victims here in Siem Reap, Sinath refuses to be beaten down by his handicap, and pushes through.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-63007528656671147462008-07-09T23:23:00.005+07:002008-12-09T06:17:46.163+07:00Disabled But Not Handicapped<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Maxine Lim Jen Ai</span><br /><br /><br />The Angkor Association for the Disabled (AAD) is tucked away in a quiet spot by the river with trees shading it from the hustle and bustle of the busy street not far from Popular Guesthouse, the place where we're currently staying in Siem Reap. Bonna, our trusty student guide led us to the place, situated on the other side of the river.<br /><br />As we waited for Sem Sovantha, the Director of AAD to arrive, the sound of children's shrieks and laughter filtered into the hall. Hort Hark (pronounced Huat-Hak) who is in charge of selling the various hand-sewn items by the residents of AAD explained that the organization is currently housing more than 10 families behind the main building.<br /><br />After Sovantha settles down, he proudly explained that he previously held the distinguished position as the Captain of the Cambodian Army. While tracking the Khmer Rouge in 1990, he met with an unfortunate accident that took away both his career and his legs. Sovantha's accident turned him into one of the 600 civilians who fall victim to landmine's every year since the return of Cambodia to peace in 1993.<br /><br />After 1990, without the means to earn a livelihood, he moved to Phnom Penh to avoid being hunted by the Khmer Rouge. Out of desperation, he turned to begging on the streets of Phnom Penh. There, the loss of his limbs opened Sovantha's eyes to the harsh reality of the living conditions of people made handicapped by landmines.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAuzdE0M2yVF3tDVVdx0-3CflGfEt78FZJfWyZBQmesY6rfz5QHgZJNczE42VrysNNQVD0fReatVm047f2TVzddlZkuQZutD8rZvomgF4P6kJH7BcD7wY7hhyphenhyphenSc4U-XH9nBTQ8HKrZy7I/s1600-h/Maxine1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221272920060678658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAuzdE0M2yVF3tDVVdx0-3CflGfEt78FZJfWyZBQmesY6rfz5QHgZJNczE42VrysNNQVD0fReatVm047f2TVzddlZkuQZutD8rZvomgF4P6kJH7BcD7wY7hhyphenhyphenSc4U-XH9nBTQ8HKrZy7I/s400/Maxine1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />"When I beg on the street, I saw the police kick the beggars to chase them away," he said, explaining that the authorities often try to clear the street of beggars to avoid them from harassing tourists.<br /><br />He solemnly informs us that about 50 people living on the streets die each year from starvation and disease. Sovantha, saddened by the treatment and neglect that they have to endure, sought to find a way to help the people disabled due to landmines. He saw the main problem of begging stem from the lack of education and the skills of the beggars to earn their own livelihood.<br /><br />His decision to help the disabled sparked his initiative to set up a centre where people disabled from all sorts of accidents can stay in peace and learn skills that can help them earn a living. Today, the establishment of AAD is Sovantha's brainchild to help all disabled people, not limited to victims of landmines.<br /><br />The AAD operates under a simple mission: to help the disabled help themselves. From their early efforts that only involved efforts like taking sick beggars to the hospital, the AAD has really spread its wings to incorporate various programs under its banner. We were pleasantly surprised to be informed that AAD has had volunteers from all over the world (England, Korea, Japan and Singapore to name a few) to teach English to the residents at AAD.<br /><br />When asked how the disabled come to know of his programme, Sovantha explains he 'recruits' them directly from the streets.<br /><br />"I used to sell souvenirs to tourists near the Old Market (at Siem Reap) so now I go there and talk to the beggars. I ask them if they want to learn new skills and offer to teach them and take them in if they agree," he says.<br /><br />The Sewing Programme is AAD is the most recent programme for AAD. Set up in 2007, Sovantha hired a teacher to teach disabled girls skills to sew bags, pouches and other products from traditional Khmer cloth to sell in the marketplace. Venturing upstairs, we encounter three women industriously sewing bags, surrounded by scraps of expensive Khmer material and stuffing. The teacher is Klod Kimli, 53, who learnt her craft in Thailand. For Klod Kimli, teaching the girls to sew is something she does from the heart.<br /><br />"We are the same Khmer people. Rich people can open schools but only the rich can attend classes. We (AAD) also open 'schools' but it's free so the poor can learn too," she says.<br /><br />Her belief and conviction towards helping the disabled gain their feet and avoid being discriminated against, echoes Sovantha's own principles.<br /><br />When asked if she intends to continue teaching to sew in AAD, she replies, "I will teach people to sew until my eyes can't see and my hands can't sew anymore. I am all alone because I lost my family in the war but I want to pass on my knowledge because I can't take it with me when I die."<br /><br />Sovantha believes strongly that his conviction in helping other disabled people live freely from discrimination is echoed by all of them.<br /><br />"I believe that all disabled people in Cambodia can learn to earn their own living and all of them can support themselves," he says.<br /><br />His only lament is that many of the disabled don't know of their rights and currently Sovantha dedicated time and effort from his busy schedule to lobby for equal rights for the disabled.<br /><br />"I am tired. I work for a long time and I don't have any off days! But I still want to go on because I want to protect (the disabled)," he says with a smile.<br /><br />For the time being, the Angkor Association for the Disabled has a rather rocky future. The contract on the building for AAD is almost up and the owner is unwilling to renew it. Sovantha is troubled about moving the residents to a smaller location somewhere further and like any other small-scale NGO, is plagued by funding problems and the paperwork involved in applying for foreign funding.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfwE-aQaKYPylW4k7_gBci7-Ud6d4l8o-l6rX6a8rFLPcdsVVS8Kva9eJdPnAxSkrt7lp6piWTZbOSoi5nCPpEfJG9NrAnpwmx-e8lRGPDPsfZjxCxXnZpllzTXDLrBifnXbmQMmqKks/s1600-h/Maxine2_SemSov.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221272923671955314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfwE-aQaKYPylW4k7_gBci7-Ud6d4l8o-l6rX6a8rFLPcdsVVS8Kva9eJdPnAxSkrt7lp6piWTZbOSoi5nCPpEfJG9NrAnpwmx-e8lRGPDPsfZjxCxXnZpllzTXDLrBifnXbmQMmqKks/s400/Maxine2_SemSov.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />As we exit the compound amidst the smell of dinner cooking on the stove and children playing tag in the compound, we quietly pondered over the future difficulties that Sovantha and AAD face. Nevertheless, I was certain he would find a way to solve his problems. Beneath Sovantha's gentle, polite exterior, he embodies the spirit of the Khmer people – the tenacity and perseverance to overcome insurmountable odds.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-56391910111460363982008-07-09T09:20:00.002+07:002008-12-09T06:17:46.486+07:00Wats<span style="font-style: italic;">by Anthea Haryoko</span><br /><br /><br />Scattered throughout Siem Reap, Buddhist Wats have remained for centuries, long before the French arrived, some still surviving in spite of the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, natural weather and erosion. Today, approximately 4,100 Wats remain throughout the country.<br /><br />In layman's terms, Wats are multi-tiered Buddhist monastery temples. However, in essence, the name refers to sacred Buddhist monks' quarters. Within its complex, it houses a temples containing large statues of Buddha and also places to teach classes on moral behaviour and principles according to Buddhist teachings. Majority of the Cambodian citizens are Buddhist. The country's population has approximately 13.4 million people, out of which 93 percent are either Hinayana or Theravada Buddhists.<br /><br />Along the Siem Reap River where its brown waters flow through the centre of town, my new friend and student guide, Kosal and I make our way to Wat Preah Prom Rath. The gates of this Wat are not hard to miss. There are rich red and gold carvings on its gates and Buddhist flags line the complex.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9pbXy1ak-7B0CVNwJDiCyI5mH0Nzu7LLj0Li77PeI2NHxQjxEDqggIguOJGeA5-BtsV6uGcOgY1s9J8B5KhT-ZBkXs1BAadjOdwm6pD7kbgMcOPgRzjPLEqS29JUWpi6D5FM5ElgOiY/s1600-h/Anthea1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9pbXy1ak-7B0CVNwJDiCyI5mH0Nzu7LLj0Li77PeI2NHxQjxEDqggIguOJGeA5-BtsV6uGcOgY1s9J8B5KhT-ZBkXs1BAadjOdwm6pD7kbgMcOPgRzjPLEqS29JUWpi6D5FM5ElgOiY/s400/Anthea1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221263446747175490" border="0" /></a><br />As we walk around, Kosal spots an elderly monk dressed in simple black shorts and a 'krama' slung over his shoulders, sitting before a large stature of Buddha. Kosal tells me to take off my shoes, so we both do, in spite of niggling fears that someone may make off with them. Then, Kosal bows three times before the statue to pay his respects as we pass it. The monk we met tells us we can call him Lon, and kindly offers to show us around.<br /><br />We stop at the tall grey six-tiered Wat and I turn to Kosal to translate my questions. Lon explains that inside contains broken pieces of a golden statue of Buddha. It was built by a noble monk named Tem Tam during the 1930's, who at the time was the director in the province. This particular Wat I learnt, was built by King Ang Chan Raja during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Reflecting the deep respect the people have towards Buddhism, many of them even gave up their land in order to build the Wat just for him. Today, the Wat is freely open to the public.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoE8Mizwvnhy8ZUylYvoDyMW1ZyGvLUybr4Hh7KWvb-ArojAzGx11JuQKINmuOkVrKzAqQnqBRbAJGBJWCpFj17XUbuqBDWBz56qq-fadPQwTnOFKCxELrVccxJIB2rQaWP8K53obtOA/s1600-h/Anthea2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoE8Mizwvnhy8ZUylYvoDyMW1ZyGvLUybr4Hh7KWvb-ArojAzGx11JuQKINmuOkVrKzAqQnqBRbAJGBJWCpFj17XUbuqBDWBz56qq-fadPQwTnOFKCxELrVccxJIB2rQaWP8K53obtOA/s400/Anthea2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221263446319727298" border="0" /></a><br />At each of its four sides, there is an intricately carved "giant", as Kosal puts it, to guard its contents. Further above, are Apsara dancers, which I gather during the time I've been here, are popular figures for carvings in Wats. Many of the designs in Cambodia are similar to that of Thailand. Kosal patriotically explains to me a little known fact that most of these similar designs actually result from the Thais "stealing" them from Cambodia. However, I felt that it was a slightly sore point and a sensitive subject for the Khmer people and did not want to challenge him or press him for more information.<br /><br />I inquired of the time during the Khmer Rouge regime, where they banned the<br />practice of all religion. Kosal informed me that in consequence with this action, thousands of monks were displaced and forced into manual labour while many of Cambodia's precious Buddhist legacy - Wats and monasteries, were also destroyed throughout the country. It is estimated that around 50,000 monks were massacred during this dark period. Lon also informed us that the Khmer Rouge did indeed try to knock down this Wat to get to its golden contents, but were ultimately unsuccessful. However, not many Wats in Siem Reap were destroyed. Recently, new wats are being built in the centre of town.<br /><br />In the Wat Preah Prom Rath complex, there is a temple which houses yet another colossal statue of Buddha. Again Kosal pays his respect before it. The temple holds a few secrets. You only have to walk behind to find another statue, but this time it is lying down on its side as if relaxing by the beach. Lon mentions that it is to symbolise the death of Buddha. As i walk back towards the front, i notice 2 rusty pieces of metal lying on the ground. As it so turns out, they are relics from the past: guns used in the time of Ang Chan Raja.<br /><br />In front of the complex is a statue of a long boat. I asked Lon about this particular statue. It tells a story of Changhan Hoy, a monk who took his boat (of the same name) from the Tonle Sap lake to Phnom Phen in the Longvek province in the south. Story has it that the speed of the boat was so fast, that the rice he brought back didn't have time to cool and was still warm in his bowl. He would do this everyday, but on one particular day, a big fish came and crushed his boat in half sending one side to the north and the other to the south in the Kampong Chhnang province.The Buddha lying down within this temple is meant to represent this story.<br /><br />Further across is a school that teaches english and Buddhism. It is just a humble class room containing about 15 or so students. I happened to walk into the middle of an english class and interrupted them but they brightly smiled as I took a picture and excused myself for my rudeness. Many of the Wats in Siem Reap also hold schools. One such example is Wat Damnak, where many of our sessions during this study trip was held. Wat Damnak houses the Center for Khmer Studies and the Life and Hope Association.<br /><br />The LHA itself teaches children English and various other languages by foreign volunteers from all over the world including Korea and our very own Malaysia, and 10 of its 48 monks. A session with LHA made us aware that they hope to empower the children to grasp a brighter future by exposing them to the English language,<br />which has become essential in order to benefit from Cambodia's booming<br />tourism industry.<br /><br />To end my visit, I paid a small donation to Wat Preah Prom Rath as a token for providing me with such rich background material for my story and gratefully thanked Lon for being our guide. As we walked back, I feel truly amazed at what you can find in Siem Reap, if you only took the time to look.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-69194408649779902752008-07-08T23:57:00.003+07:002008-08-23T00:40:50.514+07:00Diary Entry: If They Can Smile, Why Can't We?<span style="font-style: italic;">by Kemi Harahap</span><br /><br /><br />I met a little boy today.<br /><br />His name is Kom Sang and he is only eleven months old. Even at such a young age, he showed an attraction to sound, dancing and laughing while three Australian girls were playing with a metal cup and pen. Once in a while, he would get distracted by the music that was played at the neighbouring primary school, his ears flickering to the source of the music.<br /><br />His droopy eyes projected a melancholic gaze which reflected the abandonment by his parents. The baby's father was killed by landmines, while his mother died soon after with malaria. In the absence of his parents, a caring neighbour took him in when he was just 7 months old. Unfortunately, the neighbour could not afford to support him, and brought him to the Sunrise Children's Village.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48sbq_tlhTXdx0iaG4X3fG9LTg1x04lwVB8eHtnXHDOXga4bj79H_7U9FBYqDfa5sA4lnM8TCPY318QCtPR11h-LG9tR3HTMcPfY5Ha7o9Vs3nJCoEGHvG-XCHTw4bn3uZ7RQ2pIU9Fc/s1600-h/Kom+Sang+orphan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48sbq_tlhTXdx0iaG4X3fG9LTg1x04lwVB8eHtnXHDOXga4bj79H_7U9FBYqDfa5sA4lnM8TCPY318QCtPR11h-LG9tR3HTMcPfY5Ha7o9Vs3nJCoEGHvG-XCHTw4bn3uZ7RQ2pIU9Fc/s320/Kom+Sang+orphan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237397072652216194" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Little Kom Sang</span><br /></span></span></div><br />I did a little research today and found that there are an estimated number of 570,000 orphans in Cambodia. Young children just like Kom Sang are left alone, as their parents become victims of landmines, diseases, and poverty. However, it is fortunate that organizations similar to Sunrise Children's Village (SCV) and Life and Hope Association (LHA) are doing their best to support them.<br /><br />Linda, Miriam, Aron, Su-Lyn and I decided to visit SCV, an orphanage only several walks away from our guest house by the riverbank. It is there that I met Kom Sang with his cheerful smile and baby teeth, giggling away with glee to the beat of the music. Apparently there are about 20 orphanages in Siem Reap itself, and the SCV receives donations from the Australian Cambodian Foundation Inc. Aside from school, the children attend extracurricular dance classes, English classes and computer classes.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkBqLxDGEXzMag4B4JJ4-0u82m7Kp_ygM_E5Ij9NZybbFQMdmuRngYv8misJValuGOxBfU6_jlMA2cYpCbGFAE3gTYp4GiNRRonODnMtpMCjnWIjP4z_wA_5vOD9-JpcgblPodCpI5jc/s1600-h/sunrise+orphanage.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkBqLxDGEXzMag4B4JJ4-0u82m7Kp_ygM_E5Ij9NZybbFQMdmuRngYv8misJValuGOxBfU6_jlMA2cYpCbGFAE3gTYp4GiNRRonODnMtpMCjnWIjP4z_wA_5vOD9-JpcgblPodCpI5jc/s320/sunrise+orphanage.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237398134435397250" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Sunrise Children's Village</span><br /></span></div><br />SVC can be seen as a successful case, as a number of orphans that have reached adulthood are able to be sent outside Siem Reap to continue university. Two are studying in Phnom Penh, while one received a sponsorship to study in Australia. The children's English is also shockingly fluent. I am in awe by this fact, as this shows that there must be a large number of people who have spent their time and money to care for these orphans.<br /><br />Besides visiting SCV, the eighteen of us visited Life and Hope Association (LHA) this morning. We were welcomed by Than and Y Nol, the association's program coordinator and monk turned English and Computer teacher. They shared their stories on the projects done by LHA, where they teach the orphans skills such as sewing in addition to building a school for them. In the session, Than and Y Nol emphasizes their focus on helping girls, as they mentioned that the Cambodian society structure makes it harder for girls to get jobs without any skills.<br /><br />Throughout the entire session, soulful prayers were echoing in the distance. Than and Y Nol explained it to be a prayer for the dead, as a funeral was taking place within the complex. The somber and hypnotizing prayers were accompanied by the gloomy morning weather, and within moments I found myself trapped in a trance.<br /><br />To let you in on a personal story, I was going through an odd and awkward time just before I left for Cambodia, as the father of my boyfriend passed away with cancer. What I felt was almost indescribable, and the event had pulled me closer to the mysteries of life and death. Even if I was not part of their family, I experienced deep sorrow and regret. I found myself questioning death; why it comes and goes so unexpectedly, and most importantly, how would the ones left behind cope to survive in such a situation.<br /><br />After the session at LHA and visiting SCV, I found that there are orphans in this world that are left in even more difficult situations, such as Kom Sang, who did not even get to have the luxury of remembering what kind of persons his parents were. Even the girls from LHA are brought in to avoid being trapped from child prostitution and slavery. We are not only lucky to have our parents, we are also lucky to be pampered and spoiled. We are fortunate enough to travel to Cambodia, to attend a fully facilitated school, to have a shelter and to have sufficient food.<br /><br />To see that the children can find happiness even in such difficult situations is empowering, and hopefully the thought of all the smiles on the faces of the children who we have brought toys and snacks for can help us survive the remaining days in Siem Reap. Interacting with the children of SCV and meeting with the Monks of LHA gave me a chance to reflect on what I had been feeling a week before.<br /><br />If they can smile, why can't we? Let's take a moment to count our blessings.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-85894910601240372242008-07-08T23:56:00.001+07:002008-12-09T06:17:46.915+07:00Diary Entry: A Visit to Tonle Sap<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Nurina Malinda</span><br /><br /><br />I felt the breezy air on my face on the way to Tonle Sap. Aron, Su Lyn and I decided to take the tuk-tuk to Tonle Sap and visit South East Asia’s largest freshwater lake. The journey took us to paddy rice fields, flat land and picturesque landscapes. Interestingly, houses in the countryside reminded Su Lyn of her hometown, Johor. The houses are reminiscent of those found in Malaysian villages or <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">kampung</span>s.<br /><br />The entrance fee as well as a tour of the floating village cost us USD 15. Our guide, Ray, explained to us that July brought in the dry season therefore; people from the floating village can stay here. When the rainy season arrives, the entire area will be covered in water, so they would have to move further away. He said that they have everything there. I did not believe him at first. But the boats that sold a myriad of products from hair care to various foods, battery shops (battery is used to charge their television), the mosque, church, school and hospital confirmed whatever he said as true.<br /><br />They also had a small fish and reptile exhibition area. We were greeted by children who carried snakes on their necks, for tourists should they want a photograph with the reptile. Ray showed us how to feed the cat fish and make them eager to get out of the water. They had the biggest cat fish I ever saw.<br /><br />Other than snakes crocodiles were also seen. The crocodiles were caught from the Mekong River. I was so excited taking videos when Su Lyn tapped me on my shoulder and asked me to look below. Looking down, I saw a float of big crocodiles on top of each other. Numbness spread all over my body. I carved an escape path by asking Aron and Ray to move aside. I cringed, as the only thing that separated me from the hungry reptiles was a plank of wood.<br /><br />We then proceeded to the fishing exhibition. Ray explained various tools and different techniques that they used to catch crabs, catfish and tortoise. The traps are stretched out from the beach until a few kilometers into sea. So fishes that swim near the beach and follow the current of the water are trapped, making them easier to catch. He mentions besides using bamboo traps they also use spears to catch crabs.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVmmLOEyIPJ7OfdFj-zzbR3fVYGyX9pSBQw9GThsBxO98kh5xiq7MzDYIaZiRV0J89z2JjRfCVgQGZLQBMOYyXSVU0Zvtt7wQXCoNt4z4PrJA9Pct6-7VE7JplEE2VrSgoCgFa0rZupKg/s1600-h/DSC00381.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221025836013265762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVmmLOEyIPJ7OfdFj-zzbR3fVYGyX9pSBQw9GThsBxO98kh5xiq7MzDYIaZiRV0J89z2JjRfCVgQGZLQBMOYyXSVU0Zvtt7wQXCoNt4z4PrJA9Pct6-7VE7JplEE2VrSgoCgFa0rZupKg/s320/DSC00381.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />At the end of the tour we went up to see the river from above a platform. We realized that we were unable to reach the main river due to water plants that covered the area. We took some pictures and Su Lyn became the narrator for Aron’s video. Ray went up and help us took pictures three of us together.<br /><br />Although Aron had to return before 3pm to help Maxine with her interview, we still had time to visit the school at the floating village. The teachers welcomed us and allowed us to take some pictures and videos with the students. The students there were learning Vietnamese. We gave a small donation so that books can be purchased to aid their learning experience. We thanked the teachers and said goodbye to the students and continued our journey back.<br /><br />We got out from the boat and said thanked Ray. When we were about to hop on our tuk-tuk, a little girl surprised us with our picture. I then recalled her taking a picture of us with her digital camera before hopping on the boat. Aron was kind enough to purchase the photo which was beautifully framed in marble from her.<br /><br />Overall, I enjoyed our little outing today. I will always remember my fear of the crocodiles, the kindness of the teachers and appreciating the wonders of nature.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-32038966000031120432008-07-08T23:52:00.017+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.226+07:00Life and Hope From Wat Damnak<div align="left"><em>by Femmy Lais</em></div><div align="left"><em></em> </div><div align="left"><em></em> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Holding <span style="font-family:lucida grande;">strong in self-confidence, purity, and honesty, the </span><a href="http://www.watdamnak.org/lha/"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Life and Hope Association</span></a><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"> is looking forward to improve life of the orphans and alleviate poverty, particularly for the Cambodian girls. Established in 2005, Life and Hope Association focuses primarily on food and education support in the Kingdom of Cambodia via the</span> monk community. It was firstly pioneered in Nang Khram, near Tonle Sap, but is now relocated in Wat Damnak, Salakomreuk Commune, Siem Reap. </div><div align="left"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221274496775334578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhId-7dcJ7juGQAA79kDgLYe0ZBmeLRYlxq0qkZA5So7Lsk7-5IuEG1zD8PfghPgvhKA8dGNvZx0GLS-byh7a52iYfUWw2lLl5-P9cqJuwyJUPfAa28hyebPXBmiBarjWYrRL70Iq-hECA/s400/DSCN1835.JPG" border="0" /><br />The words "Life" and "Hope" themselves convey an immense meaning for the prospect of a better future, as Monk Y Nol, the monk representative and the coordinator of English and Computer school in Wat Damnak, mentioned in his aspirations for the orphans. They are actively targeting poor communes located in Salakomreuk and Chong Knees, Siem Reap Angkor District by committing to expand orphan centers and to improve Cambodia's education standards.<br /><br /><div align="left">For these three years, this non-governmental organization is currently being sponsored for three years and counting by Germany and the United States. Targeting the orphans from Grade 10 – 12 that do not have sufficient funds to continue their studies, the educated monks share their knowledge on Dharma (moral) studies and foreign linguistic studies. Most of the monks in Siem Reap are the teachers, but only some teaches in the country side.<br /><br />Duong Than, the program coordinator, explained that there are 5 projects, emphasizing women in the world national industry. They are: Sewing Training Centre, PACE (Program, Advancing, Children, Education) Project, CDV (Children Development Village), Junior High School Project, and Foods for Education. Up until now, this association has 320 students. </div><p align="center"><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221304431562522434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="364" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6YW4Rp92_n1LwnKKBoA4l3Sh2W2D0tRlEEQPe4WTD9SpEkMp9l48WliKsE3p9rLD6m9Tcf55IfEBzhYHXqlR-v1uG4d0u4EuOWNTS_boj0YG1HR2Z-ehTi_i6opR0sLXFjO9u-9FFZo/s400/DSCN1833.JPG" width="264" border="0" /> <p style="FONT-STYLE: italic" align="center"><span style="font-size:85%;">Duong Than is showing us around the Sewing Training Centre</span></p><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br />In Wat Damnak, the Sewing Training Centre is concerned with the future of Cambodia's women. The sewing training centre is currently training the third batch of students, each taking six months for training. The women from the slum areas are provided with shelter, food, and sewing machines. The project is basically one of the ways to curb poverty, allowing them to have a brighter future by giving them practical skills like sewing. Due to their cultural background, it is a strong belief that women are able to handle financial issues, thus making women desirable to work in the garment industry, unlike men.<br /><br />The PACE Project focuses on the basic needs such as food, books, and clothing for the children. The funding was organized by John Writer but the chairman position is now currently taken over by Namchi who is located in Hawaii.<br /><br />In Angkor Thom, an international traveler site, projects such as the CDV and Junior High School of the Life & Hope Association is actively funded by German NGOs. The Children Development Village (CDV) currently shelters 42 orphan children in range of 7 – 17 years old. Children aged 12 and below live together in the same room with six 'mothers' as their caretakers, whereas children above 12 years old are expected to shift to a new house in order to become independent. This project focuses more on the agricultural and educational sectors, due to the geographical circumstance.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the current project, Foods for Education focuses on the Information Technology. Monk Y Nol teaches Microsoft Excel and Words passionately to the English illiterate orphans. With only limited PCs, classes are divided into two sessions: morning and evening. In addition, this organization offers a linguistic program which invites international teachers and foreigners to teach English, Chinese, Korean, Thai, Germany, and Japanese.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgUKsLeftYikXa51GM3Thyphenhyphenbsgohqd2pIGiTil2PL-EMlynF2qZxkFUa2EU3jzkMJ01P2roe8dHqAYcZL_Aj2XWCEdI-89ez3WttEs-Y3k_bXldsmUWg2bIr2P4gjJhMHNLNYaiU9Iap1g/s1600-h/DSCN1831.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221277273686482866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgUKsLeftYikXa51GM3Thyphenhyphenbsgohqd2pIGiTil2PL-EMlynF2qZxkFUa2EU3jzkMJ01P2roe8dHqAYcZL_Aj2XWCEdI-89ez3WttEs-Y3k_bXldsmUWg2bIr2P4gjJhMHNLNYaiU9Iap1g/s400/DSCN1831.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Monk Y Nol</span></span><br /><p><br />The manpower mostly comes from Germany and USA. Monk Y Nol mentioned that the government encourages both local and foreign teachers to work for the association. For local teachers who support this program, funds will be given for their petrol consumption, while foreign part-time teachers receive certificates as a token of appreciation.<br /><br />"Once, there was a group of 30 American students that taught English here for few months," the monk said. The number of volunteers that opt for the job fluctuates.<br /><br />As for upcoming plans, they have set a target of 400 orphans in total to acquire adequate education in Siem Reap. Therefore, Life & Hope Association will be collaborating with the provisional governors to make it a success. The governors encourage mothers to take care of the misfortunate orphans, and mothers will be given some money as compensation.<br /><br />Life & Hope Association works hands in hand with NGOs, the government, and the personal funders regarding the significance of education in Siem Reap to alleviate poverty.</p>Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-55846476216046180152008-07-08T23:14:00.004+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.392+07:00Chicks Learning to Fly<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Mindy Wong</span><br /><br /><br />If I were brought up in a poor family in Siem Reap, I would cross my fingers and hope to be chosen for the Sewing Training Centre, one of the five programs offered by The Life and Hope Association.<br /><br />Located within the parameters of the Wat Damnak, the training centre can accommodate up to 30 females between the ages 14 to 35. The candidates are chosen by the staff at The Life and Hope Association and priority is given to those who come from poorer families. The aim is to train females as skilled tailors, as well as provide food and shelter during their stay. Currently, the 20 students live together at the site and they are the third batch since the program has started.<br /><br />I removed my shoes and tiptoed in my socks as I entered the class. Holding a coloured felt tip pen in one hand and a ruler in another, the students sat comfortably in a circle with newspapers spread out in front of them. The lesson started since 7 am and they were required to draw the diagram of a shirt with accurate measurements, as shown on the white board. The girls meticulously carried out their task in a relaxed and casual environment.<br /><br />The training provides a great opportunity to develop their sewing skills in hopes of a brighter future, with great support and encouragement from their parents. Even so, some of the students who have just begun the six months training program have to be comforted from missing home and be persuaded to stay. As such, the sewing trainer, Van Leuk, aged 47, explained that working as a trainer requires more than just teaching the students how to design and sew shirts.<br /><br />Prior to working at the Sewing Training Centre, Van worked from home as a tailor for several years with a good income from local patrons. However, due to her invaluable experiences as a trainer, she was requested to work at the centre two years ago. Van decided to join The Life and Hope Association despite a fixed and a relatively low income in comparison to her previous occupation.<br /><br />The shortage of experienced trainers in Siem Reap meant that without her assistance, the program would not have been able to continue. Her decision was also based on her sympathy for the girls from rural areas. Benevolence radiated through her eyes as I sat next to her with my translator, Bunneth Siak, even though I did not understand a single word she spoke.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12vuQm19vw4Asde4ahKPisoSCZxfF-H0VAgPTBVIlvVJgpR-GfHrg47Lgr-VTDtLzlmg29tyC8RrkTqY1S1189KdXPrdP_XH6sxCErDsgLNojUDjahSItqr7Vdf8Ie8TvQikNgL7DiFE/s1600-h/DSCN1832.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221278104144255906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi12vuQm19vw4Asde4ahKPisoSCZxfF-H0VAgPTBVIlvVJgpR-GfHrg47Lgr-VTDtLzlmg29tyC8RrkTqY1S1189KdXPrdP_XH6sxCErDsgLNojUDjahSItqr7Vdf8Ie8TvQikNgL7DiFE/s400/DSCN1832.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />One of the students, Srey Pech, aged 19, first encountered the organization when the program was promoted in her home town, Pok district of Siem Reap. She enjoys the learning environment at the Sewing Training Centre where she has gained acquaintances with friendly and helpful people. She added that she has not stumbled upon any obstacles as their trainer love them as her own children. They are required to attend classes from Monday to Friday, 7-11 am and 1-5 pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, they are allowed to return to their homes. Nevertheless, Srey misses her home during the weekdays.<br /><br />The course consists of teaching students more than ten different designs of modern day collared shirts, suitable for young and old women. During early stages of learning, it may take five to seven days to make one shirt. Once the students have graduated, they will be able to complete the same task within half a day.<br /><br />With only one fortnight away from the final exam, Srey anticipates the day when she can return to her home town with her graduation gift from the Sewing Training Centre. The path to the beginning of a better future with her own shop: a sewing machine.<br /><br />For those who have the passion and skills to educate and train the less fortunate, please do not hesitate to contact The Life and Hope Association. Van intends to retire as soon as the association has found a replacement trainer, as she is now able to depend on her own children. However, fluency in the Khmer language may be an obstacle for most English speakers.<br /><br />As with any apprentice, like a chick learning to fly, practice is the key to success. For the less privileged Cambodian women, the pursuit to economic independence and much more, relies on their determination and commitment just to stand on their own two feet. With the aid of the Sewing Training Centre perhaps they will soar the skies.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-6460738343266680762008-07-08T23:07:00.002+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.559+07:00Election Season But Where's the Party?<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Chua Sue-Ann<br /><br /></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-K6KYyTATuhVNDqoAU8rvA-nD5LP8dZVjKs1-Bp359WvJTbY0P02Z8XePf-A2sBtiygaTQhrtRc_C2GrdRlAzBclxy2-z0CKBlQXxTGG8MfD0LY3351t_DMeWUjnHzgNAoNS2Dy3po/s1600-h/P7060351+copy.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221032127761562882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXS-K6KYyTATuhVNDqoAU8rvA-nD5LP8dZVjKs1-Bp359WvJTbY0P02Z8XePf-A2sBtiygaTQhrtRc_C2GrdRlAzBclxy2-z0CKBlQXxTGG8MfD0LY3351t_DMeWUjnHzgNAoNS2Dy3po/s400/P7060351+copy.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Were it not for a chance encounter with a procession of trucks carrying noisy supporters one dusty morning in Siem Reap, it would not have been apparent that Cambodia will be going to the polls on July 27th.<br /><br />The subdued atmosphere of the month-long campaigning period is a stark contrast to the fanfare that we are used to in Malaysia. Here, the streets are not littered with unforgettable party banners. Parliamentary hopefuls are not seen walking around shaking hands with voters nor are there lively political ceramahs every night. It is business as usual for everyone.<br /><br />Eleven political parties are vying for 123 seats at the National Assembly, including the dominant Cambodian People's Party, the United National Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful and Cooperative Cambodia (Funcinpec), the royalist Norodom Ranariddh Party, opposition Sam Rainsy Party (SRP) and the newly-formed Human Rights Party.<br /><br />The current Cambodian government is led by Hun Sen of the major ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP), the co-ruling Funcinpec Party. Under an agreement, Hun Sen is to remain prime minister, even if his party is no longer in the majority. The Cambodian parliament is a bicameral system consisting of the Senate with 61 seats and the National Assembly with 123 seats.<br /><br />The last general elections in 2003 saw 23 parties contending with each other. That year, CPP won the majority of 73 seats in the National Assembly while Funcinpec and SRP won 26 and 24 seats respectively.<br /><br />The Cambodian People's Party is widely expected to remain in power after this year's election. When asked, many people we met expressed their fear of trouble, stating a preference to vote as they have always voted out of a desire to maintain peace in the country.<br /><br />Sally, a stall worker, said, "It doesn't matter who wins as long as my family is safe."<br /><br />On the other hand, a man known as Tain said, "I like opposition but (they) cannot win."<br /><br />"The CPP (is) too powerful. What they want, they can do (because) they have money and power," he said, adding that he expects everything to remain the same if CPP wins.<br /><br />The language barrier certainly makes it very difficult to join in on the election fun. It would be interesting to get a glimpse into coffee shop talk on politics and the polls in Cambodia. The several people we met on the streets displayed some reservation on talking about politics openly. I presume it wasn't just the language barrier as we were assisted by local translators. Perhaps it is due to distrust of the unfamiliar.<br /><br />Tain explained that he does discuss politics with his friends "but cannot talk too much." He smiled and remained mum when asked about his discontentment with the present situation and administration.<br /><p class="MsoNormal">A local resource person explained that there is suspicion that the many taxi and motor drivers around are acting as the eyes and ears of the government or as undercover agents.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p>“Sometimes (we are) scared to talk about (things) related to government because they are around us,” he said.</p>Making its debut in the coming Cambodian general elections is the new Human Rights Party. It is an interesting addition to Cambodia's political landscape. The concept of a human rights party, for me, is a tremendously exciting idea. Other countries with similar human rights based parties include Albania, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Samoa.<br /><br />The Cambodian Human Rights Party was founded by prominent human rights activist and former Senator Kem Sokha in July 2007. The party aims to change the Cambodian culture of having one-man-led political parties and claims to be the first party in the country to adopt a check and balance system.<br /><br />"Our policy is nonviolence, political tolerance, and dialogue," said Sokha, as <a href="http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/node/4714">quoted</a> by independent news portal Twin Cities Daily Planet.<br /><br />"My message is that we want to bring power to the people and our party is different because we need to participation of the people."<br /><br />Sokha asserts that his party is not seeking for unquestioning allegiance.<br /><br />"After they understand and agree with us and not to push them to please to support us… not like the old parties that asked for support without educating them."<br /><br />The 55-year-old leader of the Human Rights Party has pledged to implement a two, five-year term limits for the prime minister and advancing a government system based on laws.<br /><br />According to the Twin Cities report, Sokha also favours a majority system as opposed to a proportional system that gives political parties more power than members of congress.<br /><br />On a visit to the Human Rights Party office in Siem Reap, we found several men shuffling around a large wooden house decked with the party's green and white banners and flags. Once again, we noted the difference with the standard Malaysian campaign centres that is constantly buzzing with activity, party paraphernalia and food.<br /><br />Johnny Khan, division chief of the Siem Reap area, is enthusiastic about public support for the party.<br /><br />However, when pressed about his optimism when the country goes to the polls, he said "We don't know. If we lose, no problem, if we win, (we) just try to help the people."<br /><br />Opinions may differ as to whether the CPP will retain its dominance or have its majority reduced. Whether the Human Rights Party and other opposition parties will make an impact in the coming polls remains to be seen. Will the 2008 Cambodian elections deliver an unexpected result as was the case in the recent Malaysian polls? Remember, prior to our own elections, the general sentiment was that the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition would continue to dominate. Whatever it is, be it a call for change or a call for continued peace, I hope that the voices of the Cambodians are heard loud and clear.<br /><br />Meanwhile, how about a Human Rights Party for Malaysia?Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-2499810295477891822008-07-08T12:58:00.001+07:002008-07-13T08:35:50.977+07:00Gatecrashing a Birthday Party<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Max Tan</span><br /><br /><br />Su Lyn and I decided to cycle along Road 6. While we embarked on our journey, a garage with bright red and yellow canopies caught our attention. A big brown banner in Khmer was hung across the canopies. Under the main canopy, people were setting the reception booth with flowers. Our curiosity piqued, we stopped and thought we should watch what we thought was a traditional Khmer wedding.<br /><br />Underneath the other canopies, housewives were cooking and there were about ten tables decorated in Khmer-style table cloths. Cambodian music filtered in through speakers that stood at the four corners of the venue. The whole setting reminded me of Malay festive feasts, or Kenduris.<br /><br />A few vehicles parked near were decorated with ribbons and flowers. The garage itself seemed to be an attraction piece on its own. There were also a vintage motorbike, an old jeep with retractable windscreen and a Mercedes Benz respectively, which were decorated with the same brightly coloured ribbons. Under one of the canopies, a couple dressed in purple traditional costumes was seen resting.<br /><br />As we curiously checked the place out, a man approached us and greeted us in English. His name was Kit and he informed us (much to our surprise) that it was not actually a wedding dinner for the couple, but a birthday party for their five-year-old eldest son! The birthday boy was dressed up with white shirt, black vest and pants, and a smart-looking bow tie. However, boys being boys, it only took him a few minutes of running around to dirty his smart-looking attire.<br /><br />The father, Perk, was decked in purple traditional costume and could not speak English but he nevertheless extended his invitation for us to the dinner, through Kit. Su Lyn and I just could not believe how friendly and sporting Mr. Perk was to invite total strangers to his son's birthday party.<br /><br />I observed that the wealthy families in Siem Reap seem to be living the good life. We were told that typically, birthday parties have around 100 guests and wedding dinner guests will be ten times more than that amount. In these events, an average of 8 courses of meal will be served. This often included roasted beef and an appetizer composed of preserved meat and pickles.<br /><br />The roast beef in the party was cooked on the spot. The meat was so juicy that it oozed when one of the chefs was cutting it. The crispy brown skin of the roast beef made it an instant hit. Both the beef and the vegetables go well with a sort of grey-coloured sauce which was rather salty. Festive feasts in Siem Reap will never look complete if there is no roast beef.<br /><br />Guests who arrived early or on time were served with beer and soft drinks. They were invited to have a short chat with Mr. and Mrs. Perk at a table near the reception, before proceeding to the dinner tables as dinner was yet to be served.<br /><br />At around 5:45pm, friends, relatives and business partners of Mr. Perk started arriving. Male guests were well-groomed in pressed shirts while the female guests arrived with full make-up and traditional dresses. It certainly was a formal occasion for a five-year-old's birthday party. Appetizers were served once the tables were fully-seated. The preserved meat was rather salty but it complemented well with the taste of pickles. Many of the male guests could be seen enjoying a joint of steak while swigging their beer.<br /><br />Sadly, Su Lyn and I had to leave after tasting the appetizers as it was getting late. Before leaving, we received an envelope from the reception to insert our cash offerings for the hosts, and put the envelope into the heart-shaped container at the reception. Guests could offer any amount which they think their food was worth. This practice seemed strange to me because the custom is foreign to Malaysian parties, where cash offerings are given personally upon meeting the host. In my opinion, this is a considerate way for Cambodian hosts to respect their guests, so that guests do not have to pay much should the food served not be up to par.<br /><br />To sum up my experience of attending this birthday party and the conversation I had with the people there, Cambodians in Siem Reap are really down-to-earth and they respect each other very much. I welcome any invitations of this kind during my next few days in Cambodia!Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-91026803943648833692008-07-08T11:06:00.002+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.684+07:00Let the People's Voice Be Heard<i>by Melissa YF Wong</i><br /><br /><br />The general response I received speaking to a few residents of Siem Reap on the upcoming National Assembly Elections is that the Cambodian's People Party (CPP) will win and return to power. Few expect a change in government, and even fewer care to contemplate its possibility.<br /><br />"The election will be simple. The CPP will win," said Mr. Tain Lyneth, a local business owner, "the Opposition will not win because the CPP is too powerful."<br /><br />Mr. Lyneth was referring to what the CPP can do with its money and power. Vote buying and voter intimidation is rampant, and few dare to stand up to CPP members who come bearing "gifts" of rice and clothes going even to the deepest of country sides to ensure nationwide support.<br /><br />According to a Human Rights Watch 1998 report on elections in Cambodia, the CPP is the only party actively campaigning throughout the countryside, an area where 80 percent of Cambodia's population lives. The report also contained details on aggressive recruitment campaigns conducted by the CCP in many provinces where local officials went from house to house to obtain thumbprints and pledges as proof of support. In most cases, people living in the communes complied under duress and intimidation, oftentimes by their own commune leader. To be fair, it is not wholly inconceivable that opposition parties, in vying for votes, also engaged in such practices.<br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qd9YKGOTzwPeCoGBj_1Iz81g_eoUZN7TlX9OMTparLZ7MW8ErmCqPL22jrAo25lfYB3pOETTgP_4Gc1WROuvFGeYJjX_dWbBTpJS4M0epE_5bw37X4FjkPYkKTQoBqbxroLcJmdgg5g/s1600-h/melissa.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221260123317476786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qd9YKGOTzwPeCoGBj_1Iz81g_eoUZN7TlX9OMTparLZ7MW8ErmCqPL22jrAo25lfYB3pOETTgP_4Gc1WROuvFGeYJjX_dWbBTpJS4M0epE_5bw37X4FjkPYkKTQoBqbxroLcJmdgg5g/s400/melissa.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">The Cambodian People's Party election campaign billboard </span></span><br /></div><br /><br />Still, fast-forward ten years and these practices still undermine Cambodia's democracy. Sally, 23, a food vendor at the Siem Reap market who can converse in Malay having worked in Malaysia for five years, said that several CPP officials went around the market handing out rice, cloths, t-shirts and caps bearing the CPP logo, just the day before I visited her. Sally however, has no real opinion on what the election will mean for her and her family. She doesn't dwell on it as long as the safety of her family is guaranteed.<br /><br />"I don't care even if Hun Sen (Prime Minister of Cambodia and CPP key leader) wins," she said. "I just want my family to be safe."<br /><br />Asked whether she thinks her people share her feelings, she answered the affirmative. "Old and young, people just want their families safe, and their right to earn a living ensured. Beyond that, no one thinks much of what they (political parties) have to offer."<br /><br />In reality, there are many things to consider in light of the upcoming elections. Cambodia has long faced corruption as the nation's single most pressing issue. Transparency International Corruption Perception Index ranks Cambodia at 162, making it the eighteenth highest corrupted nation in the world with a confidence range of 1.8-2.1 out of 10.<br /><br />Recently, in 2006, The World Bank suspended million of dollars worth of funds to Cambodia after it found irregularities and evidence of the mishandling the funds of seven projects. Although an anti-corruption law was drafted in 1994, the law has yet to be enforced to the full extent, said Dr Michael Sullivan, Director of Operations for the Center for Khmer Studies.<br /><br />He characterised this year's election as "certain" but "different." According to him, the CPP will regain power and governance, even more so when the first-past-the-post system replaces the proportional representation system previously employed. If the CPP wins under this new system, Cambodia will perhaps see the end of a coalition government," he said.<br /><br />Despite being certain that the CPP will resume power, Sullivan still believes that voters will behave unpredictably. He suspects that political parties will campaign as they always have: on old themes of Vietnamese immigration, judicial reform, salary increase for civil servants and economic stability. Unpredictable, is whether contemporary issues such as land grabbing, corruption and increase in crime rate will affect the choices of the younger generation of Cambodian voters or that fear of a non-peaceful transfer of power will ultimately cause them to reinstate the status quo.<br /><br />After all, Cambodia has experienced violent reactions after previous elections in particular those of 1993 and 1998. It took approximately one year before consensus was achieved, and a government formed after the 1993 elections. Violent protests took place predominantly in Phnom Penh in 1998, after opposition parties rejected the election results.<br /><br />The Cambodian people have the potential to demand for change, but will continue to be mired in what some in the West perceive as an illusion of democracy. From what I have been told, Cambodians usually speak loud and clear during the election but their voice is seldom heard over the imposition of an autocratic-like ruling party that spares no cost in ensuring their power is sustained.<br /><br />Polling day is a little more than three weeks away for the Cambodian people. To be sure, the world's eyes will be on Cambodia.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-34139734234463251542008-07-07T23:57:00.001+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.822+07:00Diary Entry: Paddle for a Change<em><span style="font-family:georgia;">by Max Tan</span></em><br /><br /><br />To those who say that Siem Reap could offer more, perhaps they have not tried cycling.<br /><br />I spent an afternoon with <a href="http://www.sinchew-i.com/cambodia/">Sin Chew</a> Daily's representative in Siem Reap, Wang Ping. Sin Chew Media Group is a large Chinese media group in Malaysia and being a Malaysian, I was surprised and proud to find the existence of a Malaysian media corporation in Cambodia. Annually, Sin Chew Malaysia raises funds for Cambodian children. Initially, I wanted to show how Malaysian funds raised by Sin Chew helped Cambodian children in their studies. I was hoping to meet the children and I thought it would be nice if Sin Chew Siem Reap could arrange a time where I could interview the children.<br /><br />Sin Chew Siem Reap's office is 10 kilometres away from Popular Guest House where we stay. Getting there by tuk-tuk costs about USD 10. For a change, I decided to cycle today. Despite cycling regularly in Malaysia, 10 kilometres seemed more difficult than I had expected. As I attempted to cross the street, vehicles were coming from different directions. Although some of the motorists would stop for me to cross the street, there were truck drivers who bombarded me with their honks.<br /><br />As you may have noticed, most motorcyclists here do not wear helmets which may endanger their lives. There are no traffic lights in Siem Reap except on the main road to Siem Reap Airport. When vehicles arrive at the junction, drivers seem to know the way to maneuver their vehicles. It is interesting to see how one respects another on the road.<br /><br />Truck drivers honk cars before they overtake; cars switch on their signals before turning into another road; while motorcyclists slow down when they are overtaking cyclists. These are not commonly seen on busy roads in Malaysia. I hope rude drivers in Malaysia could learn from the Cambodians to respect other road users.<br /><br />The streets are quite narrow as vehicles are parked at both sides. I was cautious not to run into any pedestrians. I noticed that one of the streets was dustier, but I guess that's what that makes Siem Reap mysteriously beautiful. Everyone along the street seemed to be preoccupied with their own activities. Young children played youthfully by the busy roads and tuk-tuk drivers eagerly offered tourists rides to scenic spots.<br /><br />In the background, political activists liberally practiced freedom of speech as they drove through heavy traffic with announcements on loud speakers. Life is really beautiful when each of us has an aim of living and people live harmoniously with one another. Locals greeted me with friendly looks and smiles. Cycling in Siem Reap town actually made me feel at home.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCpAbOhER4Z48iQffiARKMkGLGzPU4NDHVurD3MpLC_XGVkcgsEsDzXJT4lFfJT_90rQ6URDLS6aA58S1F5T9WHTzkBjlZ3vQzyWU0NaUVALnFSTaW8Qe8i-DE9sj2iwpboRkOkG_N-0/s1600-h/P7040163.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221265337824864370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCpAbOhER4Z48iQffiARKMkGLGzPU4NDHVurD3MpLC_XGVkcgsEsDzXJT4lFfJT_90rQ6URDLS6aA58S1F5T9WHTzkBjlZ3vQzyWU0NaUVALnFSTaW8Qe8i-DE9sj2iwpboRkOkG_N-0/s400/P7040163.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Upon talking to Wang at his office, I was told that people in Siem Reap are rather wealthy and that I had to go to rural areas if I were to interview the kids. Seeing that the sun was about to set and I did not want to get lost in the dark, I knew that the trip to the rural areas would not be viable with the time and resources left. Therefore, I decided to write about other interesting events in Siem Reap.<br /><br />I reached the guest house just as the sun was about to set. I did not notice how tanned and dusty I was until Aron commented that I looked 'roasted'. Oh, which reminded me of the roasted-chicken sold by vendors down the street and that made my stomach growl even louder.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-66327610725423997572008-07-07T23:55:00.001+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.843+07:00Change for Gas<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Mohd Khairie </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Somebody once asked, "Could you spare some change for gas?</span><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">I need to get myself away from this place,"</span><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">I said yep, what a concept,</span><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">I could use a little fuel myself,</span><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">and we could all use a little change…</span><br /><br /><br />It's funny how this phrase from Smash Mouth's 'All Star' fit perfectly to describing the scenario in present day Cambodia. There aren't a lot of cars around, but the streets are packed with motorbikes and their close cousin, the tuk-tuks, or better described as motorcycle carriages. Yet, while this country's primary mode of transport are through the use of motorcycles, fuel prices have been increasing steadily, putting additional strain on the citizens of this developing nation…<br /><br />I'm no statistician, but at least within the provincial city of Siem Reap, I can say with certainty that motorcycles are the primary mode of transport. Walk across a busy street in Siem Reap, and you'll be dodging waves of motorcyclists instead of incoming cars. Trot on the sidewalk and you'll be perpetually asked by smiling tuk-tuk drivers to come onto their carriages and let them take you wherever you need to go. You won't find parking lots in Siem Reap – just plenty of bicycles and motorcycles stashed at the side.<br /><br />A mere two minutes walk away from the motel I'm staying at, is a petrol station. But if you're thinking of concrete pillars with petrol booths and fuel pumps, of an air-conditioned convenience store with a cashier through a glass window and an exchange compartment, of toilets and air pumps for your tires, you need to think again.<br /><br />In Siem Reap, petrol is largely sold in soft drink bottles, the plastic variety that you buy at a convenience store in a stall by the side of the road. Arranged neatly are colorful plastic bottles filled with red and orange liquid that could almost pass for the original soft drink, if it weren't for the fact that they were sold out in wooden racks on the street directly under the intense heat of the sun. 1.5 liters of petrol are sold in your average large bottle of Coke or Sprite – for those who just want to buy a liter can help themselves to the small whiskey bottles of petrol. You don't use pumps here – you pour everything into a funnel directly into your tank.<br /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbKCERT8hmgX3an2Q-ueQ-HWWG8NjlxOwldRpa_87F29KgMqWkLaXtlWW0DmgX3riDuzIJp0duQTTrlzekbhiIT91WbkFyRP-NI0yiudBHUvtjdDQxJ_65QtcnyWCpaToS3E0IYC-bhpQ/s1600-h/khairie+gas.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221027143766600786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: pointer; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbKCERT8hmgX3an2Q-ueQ-HWWG8NjlxOwldRpa_87F29KgMqWkLaXtlWW0DmgX3riDuzIJp0duQTTrlzekbhiIT91WbkFyRP-NI0yiudBHUvtjdDQxJ_65QtcnyWCpaToS3E0IYC-bhpQ/s400/khairie+gas.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">A no-frills petrol kiosk </span></span><br /></div><br /><br />Yet what makes this crude way of distributing petrol even more incredible, are the prices. 1 liter of petrol in Siem Reap costs about 5500 riel – roughly 1.38 USD, or RM 4.50. This contrasts largely to the prices of its neighboring country, for example Vietnam, which sells a liter of their petrol for only 4000 riel – a mere one US dollar.<br /><br />Sieng Lay, one of the local tuk-tuk drivers who waits outside my motel everyday makes between 10-12 USD a day. "Petrol is cheaper outside, like in Vietnam," he says. "Only 4000 Riel for 1 liter."<br /><br />Nevertheless, Sieng Lay seems to be the lucky one of his lot. "I get between 3-4 dollars profit a day. I can still afford to send my niece to school," he continues. "But if I can't afford to buy petrol that day, I don't work."<br /><br />Indeed, increased petrol prices have also caused inflation of goods and commodities, making it harder for the people of Siem Reap to afford comfortable standards of living. Soon Sang, 21, is a freelance construction worker who works by handling high-powered heavy machinery.<br /><br />"It's difficult to stay in Cambodia," he says, after having just filled his motorcycle with petrol from a one liter used whiskey bottle. "The price of petrol increases day by day."<br /><br />He should know, working in his line of work. While his motorcycle consumes a humble 2 liters a day, his machinery on the other hand consumes on average 150 liters of petrol per day. That adds up to a staggering total of 207 USD on fuel alone, just for a day's work.<br /><br />These expensive fuel prices are daunting enough for the citizens of a country in which more than 35% of the population live below the poverty line, with the average income being a dollar a day. Nevertheless, Cambodia might be getting a big break with its recent discovery of gas and oil reserves off the shores of Sihanoukville in southern Cambodia.<br /><br />Its initial findings, estimated by the World Bank and United Nations' Development Program, could be between 400-500 million barrels of oil, generating an income of 4.6 billion USD every year for the next 2 decades. While the oil windfall is expected to aid with expensive imports of liquefied petroleum gas, (LPG) there are still several complications dogging this fortunate discovery.<br /><br />A primary complication regarding this concerns the widespread corruption in Cambodia. Ranked as one of the most corrupted countries in the world, Cambodia's oil investments could be lost to corruption instead of being spent or invested in the way of much needed development projects. The lack of stable governance and a strong system of checks and balances could lead to the futile dispersion of resources, widening income gaps and further entrenching much of its citizens in poverty.<br /><br />It's important then that the Cambodian administration establish a strong plan of action prior to mining this oil and gas reserves. In order for the people to enjoy the benefits of this oil supply, a system of transparency must be installed, which would simultaneously win the confidence of foreign investors and reroute the profits of the oil reserve back to developmental projects for the people.<br /><br />Profits must focus towards the much needed development in infrastructure, not to mention subsidies in energy and oil based industries. This would relieve the economic stress on those living under the poverty line and stimulate not only a bigger economic growth but a more balanced one that is more holistic of the citizens of Cambodia. Perhaps, with the right system in place, the government could spare come change for gas, and we could all use a more positive change.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-77723843888406838322008-07-07T23:45:00.002+07:002008-12-09T06:17:47.920+07:00House of Peace: The Shadow Puppet Heaven<span style="font-family:georgia;"><em>by Nurina Malinda</em></span><br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220321060276017714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="196" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MIloarwFLs67bKn-PJJ8XvOJtMTYx-wzEb7X9fBNXGjTy_Xs3PsE71TKMhWYNHUJrBQgMWJlmzES7v4DPECMsNjqIP5Qs7Sm-fxaSgxlCVqma5FJlrb5vgOOUXq_OTMYUpp-meOGi4E/s400/P7060482.JPG" width="298" border="0" /></p><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">Shadow puppets telling the tale of the Ramayana.</span></span><br /></p><br /><br />I went to the House of Peace with the determination to learn more about Cambodian shadow puppetry. One of the student guides, Bunneth, a tuk–tuk driver, Rattaa and my colleague Sue Ann accompanied me there. The House of Peace is located near the War Memorial for Cambodian Heroes and the Kantha Bopha Children Hospital. The person who maintains this place is a friendly old lady who greeted us warmly. Her name is Prang and she welcomed us to House of Peace Association which was built since 1995.<br /><br />Prang said that the reason she built this house was to help orphans and children who come from very poor families in Siem Reap. Children are trained at a young age to make shadow puppets so they can earn money to buy books for school. All the materials needed to make shadow puppets are attained from the market with the primary material being cow's skin.<br /><br />The hot season, she said, is the best season to get good cow skin. Back in 1995, the price of cow skin was quite cheap at 1500 riel for one kilogram. However, the price keeps on increasing and has now hit over 5000 riel per kilogram. The other material used is a special liquid that is applied onto the cow's skin so that it will be odorless. There are people who teach students how to scrub the skin of a cow. Prang herself can make this special liquid but it takes a long time to make it.<br /><br />There are ten children located opposite the Cultural Village,currently working to produce shadow puppets to be transported and sold at the House of Peace. The House of Peace had originally produced shadow puppets but since 2000, the home industry of shadow puppet making has moved to the opposite of the Cultural Village. The underlying reason behind this move is so the children can feel more convenient studying while working as the public school the children attend to is nearer to the new place.<br /><br />Skilled students can become trainers and train up to thirty to forty students. At the moment, there is a particular student who will open his own shop near Bakong Temple, around ten kilometers from Siem Reap. Prang allows particular students who have graduated from high school and those who are skillful enough to open their own shops. She is not restraining them from growing; in fact she is providing them an opportunity to develop their own skills.<br /><br />To make the smallest piece of a shadow puppet, an artist takes two to three days. As for the bigger size, an artist needs around a week to complete it. Visitors who come here sometimes buy shadow puppets but some just give donation to help the children. The prices of a shadow puppet range from 5 USD to 10 USD, 15 USD, 20 USD, 50 USD, and 100 USD depending on size.<br /><br />The children who produce the puppets are able to earn money once their puppet is sold. For example, Prang mentioned that for 20 USD worth of a puppet she will divide 1.5 USD or 2 USD for the children, in order for them to buy books for school. The rest of the money will be given to teachers and to buy new cow skin. The one who are notably skillful can get around 50 USD to 60 USD per month. As for those who have graduated and are opening his own shop near Bakong Temple-just like the one I had mentioned previously, she will give 100 USD.<br /><br />The story behind shadow puppetry came from one story called Riem Kay in Khmer, which is actually the story of Ramayana. For those who do not know the story of Ramayana, this is a famous Hindu story about Rama and Sida, a married couple who are actually members of royalty but get abandoned and exiled to the jungle because of jealousy and false accusations. Riem Kay is similar to the story of Ramayana from India.<br /><br />Similar to shadow puppetry in Cambodia, shadow puppetry in Indonesia also use Ramayana as their main story. The difference between both of them lies in the shape of the shadow puppet. For the Cambodian shadow puppet, the male and female characters have similar attire, which makes it difficult to distinguish between Rama and Sida. For shadow puppet that come from Indonesia, the attire for male and female characters are completely different. To make that shape, Prang explains, she draws on the cow skin and carves it.<br /><br />Sue Ann and I ended up buying one puppet each. At the end of the interview, we thanked Prang and I gave her a souvenir that I brought from Indonesia to show my gratitude for her kindness.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1563870348813004518.post-83208992195764817792008-07-07T23:13:00.001+07:002008-07-13T08:02:54.636+07:00In Search of the Ultimate Cambodian Fashion Accessory<span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">by Kemi Harahap</span><br /><br /><br />We all can easily recite the major fashion cities of the world in our sleep- Paris, New York, London, Tokyo, but how about Siem Reap, or Cambodia in general? Karl Lagerfield has probably never had Cambodia in mind, but our previous stereotypes must be reviewed because Cambodia is quickly making its mark as a major fashion nation.<br /><br />According to Xinhua, Cambodia has become the sixth largest garment exporter in the world, after India, China, Vietnam, Bangladesh and Indonesia. Its specialty in rich materials such as silk and cotton has been exported to neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Myanmar and even to America and Australia.<br /><br />With an economic growth rate of 9% in 2008 and the fast development of property, local Cambodians have taken larger steps to the road of luxury in lifestyles and also fashion. Fashion and shopping are favourite past-times of local Khmer women and younger girls, with shopping malls and markets jam-packed during weekends. Weddings and small parties have become the major event for the local community to showcase their newly acquired collection of clothing to family, friends and colleagues.<br /><br />Though many local men and women of the younger generation have taken upon modern clothing such as cotton T-shirts and flowered blouses, traditional Khmer accessories have not been overlooked. Not only has traditional Khmer accessories such as the Krama been used universally by locals, they have also become an important weapon for tourists to fight the foreign Asian weather. Tourists and locals alike have also swarmed Cambodia in search of the ultimate jewelry pieces; fine cut sapphire and rubies, glistening gold bracelets and silver 925 necklaces. Yet why are these accessories so significant and in demand?<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">The Krama</span><br /><br />Since the first century reign of Preah Bath Hun Tean, the Krama became a significant symbol for Cambodian identity. Even under the Khmer Rouge regime, all Khmers were forced to wear a Krama as a sign of their citizenship. Although the war has passed, the Krama has certainly not. It has proved to be a popular fashion accessory as well as a necessity.<br /><br />Holding a remarkable resemblance to the Arabic keffiyeh due to its checkered gingham pattern, the Krama is a cotton garment serving multiple functions. One could wear it as a scarf to shield the windy night, as a bandanna to fight the heat, or as a sarong across the waist. This textile may cost less than $1 a piece, but with its multiple uses, it's worth the deal.<br /><br />According to Alex, a sewing teacher at the Life and Hope Association's Sewing School, Kramas were originally worn in rural Cambodia by workers to protect themselves from the heat and dust. However, due to its versatile use, it has become popular in large cities and worn by citizens all over Cambodia, regardless of their sex, race, or class. Kramas have not only been used as a fashion statement, it has also been used for pillowcases, makeshift baby cradles, tug of wars, and even for decoration purposes.<br /><br />The success of Kramas in Cambodia has caught on by fashion gurus worldwide. Kramas produced from Kandal Province have also been exported to America and Australia, influencing many street styles within the western hemisphere. The scarf became a quick hit with the urban generation as krama-inspired scarves have been relatively in demand within major retail stores such as Topshop, H&M, Urban Outfitters and even our very own Sungei Wang. It is paired with dresses, jackets, t-shirts, and blazers, creating a fresh new twist to the original cotton piece.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Jewellery</span><br /><br />The mining industry in Cambodia, though has not gained much recognition compared to its neighbours Myanmar and Thailand, have still managed to capture the attention of faithful jewelry buyers worldwide for its cheaper price. Gold mines in areas such as Kampong Chom, Battambong, and Pailin have become destinations for explorations of gold and other minerals. Cambodian artisans are popularly known internationally for their skills in carving gems, gold and silver.<br /><br />Although one can see the potential of the mining industry in Cambodia, only about 0.39% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Cambodia is contributed by the mining sector. Despite its weak statistics, but in reality, gold, silver and gemstones are a favorite investment by local Khmer girls and women, with jewelry stalls brightening the dark market alleyways and shopping areas, looming over clothing stores.<br /><br />Gold, silver and gemstones have become a symbol for social and economic status. Women have always utilized gold as a display of wealth and power and the Cambodian society is no exception. In fact, it has become a tradition that is still intact and preserved by the local Khmer women, young and old alike.Monash Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07869571834792758552noreply@blogger.com0