Phnom Penh: The APSARA National Authority’s Department of Tourism Development and Culture commenced a four-day exchange and sharing programme focused on “Museums and Sustainability.” The event, running from Nov. 19 to 22, took place at the MGC Asian Traditional Textiles Museum in Siem Reap province.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the programme brought together 30 officials and staff from three APSARA National Authority museums and related institutions. Participants included representatives from the Department of Water, Forestry and Infrastructure Management, the Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology, the Department of Land Management, Urban Heritage and Community, as well as various museums such as the Angkor National Museum, the National Museum of Phnom Penh, the Museum of Isanvarman, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Preah Vihear Provincial Museum, with some joining online.

Mr. You Chantha, a Technical Officer in the Department of Tourism Development and Culture a
nd the programme coordinator, emphasised that the initiative aims to enhance the management and development of museums through the lens of sustainability.

The programme featured keynote speakers from diverse countries including France, China, India, Singapore, Brazil, Benin, Uganda, Colombia, South Korea, and Paraguay. These experts shared insights on organising and managing various types of museums, focusing on sustainable practices in curating permanent and temporary exhibitions, cultural activities, and educational programmes aligned with the 17 fundamental principles of sustainability.

This exchange programme is organised by the APSARA National Authority with support from ICOM Cambodia and ICOM Headquarters in Paris.