Embracing Khmer Identity Through the Sampot Bot Gala

via Phnom Penh Post, 28 February 2024: The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts in Cambodia is set to host the first-ever “Khmer Sampot Bot Gala” in Phnom Penh, aiming to celebrate and preserve the traditional Khmer dress known as sampot bot. The event, scheduled for March 2 at the Chaktomuk Conference Hall, seeks to inspire Cambodians, especially the youth, to embrace their cultural heritage and the beauty of the sampot bot, a traditional garment worn for special occasions.

The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has announced that the first “Khmer Sampot Bot Gala” will be held next month.

‘Sampot bot’, roughly translated as folded skirt, is a long, rectangular cloth worn around the lower body. The traditional dress is common among state employees, and, if made from silk, is usually worn in a special occasion such as wedding ceremony.

While addressing a February 26 press conference, ministry secretary of state Londy Sannara explained that the March 2 event aims to preserve the traditions and intangible heritage of the Khmer ancestors.

She hopes the gala will inspire all Cambodians, especially women, to cherish their culture and become more aware of Khmer values, as well as the beauty of sampot bot.

“This purpose of the ministry organising this event is to help young people understand that sampot bot is part of the intangible heritage that our ancestors left for us.

Source: ​‘Sampot bot’ gala showcases Khmer dress | Phnom Penh Post