Angkor Wat Image Controversy: APSARA Clamps Down on ‘Cultural Disrespect

via various sources, 13 November 2023: The APSARA Authority, responsible for managing Cambodia’s iconic Angkor complex, has recently addressed the issue of inappropriate images and videos shot at Angkor Wat by foreign tourists and influencers. These media, deemed to undermine Cambodia’s rich culture and heritage, included a Vietnamese influencer’s offensive content, which sparked significant online backlash. APSARA responded by banning certain materials, requesting the deletion of inappropriate images, and asking TikTok to block the sharing of such content. The incident underscores the challenges of balancing tourism and cultural preservation, highlighting the need for respectful engagement with heritage sites.

It adds that on October 23, 2023, the travel agency of APSARA Authority banned some foreign tourists who intend to shoot inappropriate videos.

After banning the use of some materials, the travel agency also inspected and asked the tourists to delete some other images that were inappropriate.

However, members of the group, who used their mobile phones as recording devices, may be hiding and using some images, both inside and outside the temple, to use for illicit purposes.

APSARA Authority has requested the social networking company Tik Tok to block the posting of the video clip(s) as well as requesting the public not to participate in sharing as it supports the incitement to negative activities.

Source: APSARA Authority call for removal of images shot by foreigners at Angkor Wat that “undermine Cambodia’s rich culture and heritage” – Khmer Times