According to a report in the Bangkok Post, the Cambodian Culture and Fine Arts Ministry is looking to boost its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, adding Banteay Chhmar temple to a list already awaiting UNESCO approval.
Culture and Fine Arts Minister Phoeung Sakona tells the Khmer Times that "the ministry sent thousands of pages of documents relating to the Sambor Prei Kuk temple complex to the World Heritage Committee last year."
It is also preparing to add new documentation for Banteay Chhmar temple. The benefit of adding this historic place is a financial win as well as a win for preservation.
"There is profitability from getting World Heritage status. First, it makes those places become famous in the world. Second, we can attract preservation funds," Sakona says, adding that while Cambodia spends on preservation, UNESCO status draws international donors.
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Currently, the country has just two UNESCO World Heritage sites, Angkor Wat and Preah Vihear temple.
For more on Cambodia's efforts at preserving its culture, read on here.
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