AKP Phnom Penh, December 25, 2025 --

Tears flowed among many Cambodians as a large-scale mural titled “Art for Peace” was unveiled in Siem Reap city, depicting what organisers described as the harsh realities and human cost of an ongoing conflict linked to Thai military incursions into Cambodian territory.

The artwork was officially presented on Dec. 24 evening at the Preah Ang Chek–Preah Ang Chorm public park in Siem Reap province. 

Organisers said the project aims to give voice to civilians affected by war, promote respect for cultural heritage and urge the international community to take action to prevent further violence.

More than 70 artists from several provinces collaborated on the mural, which measures 5 metres by 30 metres and was created over five days from Dec. 19 to Dec. 24. The initiative was led by project head Tan Kimsour, representing the artists, alongside Meas Chandalin, chief executive of Lakamo Co., with participation from artists, students, business owners, local residents and relevant authorities.

According to the organisers, the mural portrays scenes of grief and trauma they attribute to the conflict, including a Cambodian woman kneeling and clutching a photograph of her husband, a soldier killed in combat; schoolchildren fleeing in fear; and a young girl raising her hands in a traditional greeting while searching for her father. 

The images are intended, they said, to reflect suffering that Cambodian children should not have to endure in the modern era.

The artists said the mural will remain on public display until the conflict ends, serving as a call for peace addressed to the wider world. 

Visitors, including foreign tourists, are also invited to lay flowers and light incense in tribute to soldiers who lost their lives on the battlefield.

Article in Khmer by Khuth Sao
Article in English by K. Rithy Reak