ASEANEWS HEADLINE-EVENTS: Cambodia celebrates 72nd Independence Day

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Synopsis: The nation’s leaders and people gather at the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh to commemorate the royal mission of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, the Father of Independence.

Cambodia celebrated the 72nd Independence Day yesterday at the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh.

The grand ceremony was presided over by King Norodom Sihamoni and attended by Senate President Hun Sen, National Assembly President Khuon Sudary, Prime Minister Hun Manet, and senior officials from various ministries and institutions.

The event was also attended by leaders of Cambodia’s top institutions, including members of the Senate, the National Assembly, the government, as well as national and international guests, diplomats, civil servants, members of the armed forces and students.

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Mr Hun Sen said on social media yesterday that he joined the King in celebrating the occasion.

He added that Independence Day commemorates the royal mission of the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk, the Father of Independence, who courageously led the struggle to achieve true independence for Cambodia.

“Today, Cambodia celebrates the 72nd Anniversary of National Independence Day (November 9, 1953 – November 9, 2025), marking the nation’s independence from French colonialism, which also coincides with the 72nd Anniversary of the establishment of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces,” he wrote.

As part of the tradition, the King lit the Victory Flame at the Independence Monument. The flame burns for three days as a symbol of the nation’s pride, independence, and unity.

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Across the country, public spaces were adorned with banners and slogans marking the historic occasion. Each evening during the three-day celebration, fireworks will illuminate the sky over Chaktomuk River.

Delegations from Parliament, ministries, government institutions, and various associations, laid wreaths at the Independence Monument and at the nearby statue of the late King Father.

Mr Hun Manet also sent a message congratulating the nation on the 72nd anniversary of Independence Day and the establishment of the RCAF.

Ky Sou Ing, a student of Chaktomuk Secondary School, expressed pride in taking part in the celebration. She said she was honoured to witness the King’s procession through the streets.

“Although the weather was a bit hot, I was happy to see the King in person and meet many students, teachers, and civil servants from various institutions celebrating Independence Day,” she said.

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“Even though the event took place more than 70 years ago, I believe it is important to celebrate Independence Day each year to commemorate the sacrifices of the late King Father and all Cambodian ancestors who devoted their lives for the motherland so that Cambodia could regain full independence.”

Met Phally, a resident of Phnom Penh, said the French colonial period brought Cambodia both advantages and disadvantages.

“Without France, Cambodia might have faced threats from foreign invasions. However, due to French influence, Cambodia managed to regain control of some provinces,” he said.

He added that although France helped protect the integrity of Cambodian territory, it also ceded some Cambodian land to neighbouring countries.

Yesterday, the Senate wrote on social media that the Independence Day celebration is an expression of the nation’s gratitude for the historic day when Cambodians achieved full independence from French colonialism through national unity.

The National Committee for Organising National and International Festivals announced that the Independence Day and the RCAF Establishment Day is being celebrated from November 9 to 11, in honor of the King Father’s royal crusade for independence.

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The committee added that balloons and doves—symbols of peace—would be released and fireworks lit yesterday and tomorrow.

National Defence Minister General Tea Seiha sent a message of greeting to army officers and troops on duty, trainees studying in friendly countries, UN peacekeeping forces, and frontline soldiers stationed along the border.

Gen Seiha expressed his deep appreciation for the great achievements of the RCAF in defending the country, demonstrating courage, perseverance, dedication, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the nation.

He added that, through their strong determination and patriotic spirit, the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces have become the backbone of the nation—a steadfast force protecting Cambodia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, peace, political stability, and the well-being of its people.

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