Culture Ministry urges designers to research Khmer traditional clothing

Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts urged the public, especially clothing designers, to carefully research traditional clothing’s history, forms and original contexts of use. It warned against misuse or imitation of alterations that were harming Khmer traditional clothing’s identity, according to its guideline issued on February 26. The ministry said original forms and contexts should be understood and examined before public use. Admiring or using something without a clear understanding of its value and roots could produce negative results, damaging or eroding the value of one’s own national heritage. Khmer traditional clothing is valuable cultural heritage expressing the Khmer people’s identity, history and customs since ancient times. The ministry sought to help people from all backgrounds understand the original characteristics of certain garments, encourage preservation and guide creativity based on Khmer cultural traditions. It also called for users to pay close attention and avoid misuse or imitation of alterations that harmed traditional clothing’s identity. By: Nget Pisant.