Cambodia Moves to Preserve Traditional Use of Khmer Sbai

Cambodia Moves to Preserve Traditional Use of Khmer Sbai

PHNOM PENH, 21 September 2026 — Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts will hold an orientation seminar next month focusing on the Khmer Sbai, including its proper use in traditional customs, ceremonies and Khmer weddings.

The seminar, titled “Khmer Sbai and Its Use in Khmer Customs, Traditions and Weddings,” is scheduled for October 6, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Angkor Wat Hall of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts in Phnom Penh.

According to the ministry’s announcement, the seminar aims to increase public understanding of the Khmer Sbai and how it should be used in accordance with traditional Khmer customs and practices.

Particular attention will be given to the use of the Sbai in Khmer wedding ceremonies, which the ministry describes as part of the country’s national cultural identity.

The ministry said the initiative is intended to promote greater understanding of Khmer traditions and encourage collective efforts to promote, preserve, conserve and widely disseminate the country’s cultural heritage.

Members of the public interested in the subject are invited to participate, particularly people working in related fields such as beauty and bridal services, fashion design, content creation and other related professions.

Those wishing to attend are required to register by 6 p.m. on September 30, according to the ministry’s notice.

The seminar comes as the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts continues efforts to raise awareness of traditional Cambodian clothing and cultural practices. The ministry has also published guidelines concerning Khmer traditional clothing as part of its broader cultural-preservation work.

The upcoming seminar is expected to provide participants with greater clarity on the cultural significance and appropriate use of the Khmer Sbai, particularly amid changing fashion trends and modern interpretations of traditional wedding attire.