via Khmer Times, 02 April 2024: The Apsara National Authority has issued a public plea to refrain from sharing disrespectful images of cultural sites, following a provocative photo circulated on social media depicting a woman disrespecting a sculpture at Angkor Wat. This act, considered offensive and harmful to Cambodian cultural pride and international relations, has prompted ANA to seek legal action against the creator. The authority emphasizes the importance of verifying information before sharing, to combat misinformation and uphold the sanctity of Cambodia’s national treasures.
Apsara National Authority (ANA) announced in a press release on Saturday that a social media account called “Reality-Fact” posted a fake photo showing a woman stepping on the head of a sculpture in front of Angkor Wat.
The ANA noted the image incites racism and serves negative interests that damage the image of Cambodian national culture along with neighbourly relations. Angkor Wat is one of the largest and best-preserved religious monuments in the world.
It was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II who reigned from 1113 to 1150. Today, its beauty and wonder attracts tens of thousands of visitors from around the globe each year.
Source: Don’t share insulting images of cultural sites, says Apsara – Khmer Times