AKP Phnom Penh, August 08, 2025 -- Over 1,109 Buddhist monks and laypeople gathered at Botum Vattey Reachavararam pagoda in Phnom Penh to honor Cambodian soldiers who died defending the nation’s territorial integrity. 

The solemn memorial service, held this morning, paid tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of those who gave their lives for their country.

Organised by Preah Suramrit Buddhist University, the ceremony featured a traditional merit dedication ritual. Participants, including senior monks, novices, and devout Buddhists from across the capital, offered alms and food to the monastic community. 

The event also included a Bangskol ceremony, a ritual specifically dedicated to transferring merit to the deceased.

The event began with a collective homage to the Triple Gem—the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha—followed by 30 minutes of silent meditation and the observance of precepts. Monks then chanted traditional verses to transfer the spiritual merit from the ceremony to the souls of the fallen soldiers.

The memorial served as a powerful reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by those who protected Cambodia’s sovereignty and peace. 

Organisers emphasised that the event aimed to promote lasting harmony, national unity, and spiritual well-being for all Cambodians.

By K. Rithy Reak