Siem Reap Post reported that Men Sam An presided over a consecration ceremony for the Vishnu-on-Garuda statue on the morning of May 19, 2026, offering prayers for peace and well-being for Cambodia and its people. The ceremony took place at the roundabout in front of Samdech Euv High School, at the junction leading to Siem Reap’s former international airport.
Participants included Hun Sinath, Prak Sophoan and his wife, Oddar Meanchey Governor Mean Chanyada, civil servants and members of the armed forces.
The report recalled that the Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provincial administrations had jointly organised a prayer ceremony and procession on May 4, 2026, returning the statue from Oddar Meanchey to its original location. The statue is regarded as a symbol of peace, tranquillity and well-being.
Citing historical and Hindu mythological accounts, the original report described Vishnu, also known as Narayana, riding Garuda as a symbol of power, protection and harmony. It said related carvings appear at Khmer temples including Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei and Preah Khan.
During the ceremony, Men Sam An offered prayers for King Norodom Sihamoni, Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk and the Buddhist clergy. She also extended wishes for well-being, progress and prosperity to Senate President Hun Sen and his wife Bun Rany, Prime Minister Hun Manet and his wife Pich Chanmony, other leaders, civil servants and people across the country.
She also prayed for Cambodia to be spared disasters and disease, for continued economic and tourism development, and for the safety and success of frontline armed forces in their national defence duties.
Reporting: ប៉ៃ សុឃីម
