National Day of Remembrance Observed Across Cambodia
Cambodia stood in solemn reflection on Wednesday as the nation marked the National Day of Remembrance, honouring the more than three million lives lost under the Khmer Rouge regime.
Ceremonies Held at Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre
Footage from Phnom Penh’s Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre shows volunteers carrying a large flower bouquet adorned with ribbons. Buddhist monks can also be seen leading prayers, while attendees offer incense and candles at the monument in a moving display of tribute.
The commemoration also included a re-enactment performance depicting the harrowing experiences of those who lived through the Pol Pot regime.
“May 20th is observed as Remembrance Day, a national day to honour the souls of victims who died during the Democratic Kampuchea regime […] It is meant to restore the honour and dignity of the victims, whether they survived or passed away,” Phnom Penh Governor Khuong Sreng said in his address.
Survivors Share Painful Memories
A clerk from Boeung Trabek commune, Sen Sokhea, recounted his family’s loss during the Pol Pot regime, sharing that his aunt’s entire family was killed, with only he and his siblings surviving.
“We come here to remind ourselves of a pain we will never forget. I will carry the memory of our relatives who died during the three years and eight months of the killing fields regime,” he added.
Remembering the Khmer Rouge Atrocities
The Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge, a communist regime led by Pol Pot, lasted three years, eight months, and 20 days, from April 17, 1975, to January 7, 1979. The period was marked by mass violence and widespread tragedy.
Article by Viory
