Cambodia is a very diverse country with several different ethnic groups, all with their own unique cultures, identities, and histories. One such group are the Kuy people from the northern part of the country. They still live a very traditionalist lifestyle, despite the fact that other parts of Cambodia, like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, have modernized and changed with the times. Part of the Kuy lifestyle includes living in and around the Prey Lang Forest, which is a protected area. Sadly, the “protected” status means little to greedy corporations and corrupt officials who wish to exploit the resources there for their own personal gain. Illegal logging has already caused massive disruption to not just the ecosystem there, but also the Kuy who live in and around the immediate area. (Some have even had to leave their homes as the companies moved in).

However, some people are working to change this. Today, the group and I had the honor of meeting with five members of the Kuy, all of whom are directly involved with raising awareness about their bleeding forest and the problems it faces. Seeing them speak so passionately about their people, their livelihood, and their culture as it relates to the land and the forest was much more meaningful than simply reading about it in a book or in a newspaper. I appreciated getting the chance to meet them, and I thank them very much for taking the time to come and see us.

Although learning about the forest and its impact on the Kuy was very insightful, we also got a chance to learn about other parts of their culture. After lunch, we met an Australian scholar of Cambodian studies called Tim Fewer who told us about the importance of ancestry among the Kuy. Each region where they live has an ancestral spirit/guardian, which the people can make offerings to. For example, if you offended them, you could make an offer to try to earn “forgiveness” from the entity. (It reminded me of tribal folk beliefs, which isn’t at all surprising as the Kuy are a tribal people).

After the lecture and discussion regarding the Kuy people, we went to a local restaurant for dinner. I got to have some fish Amok, which I really liked, alongside a salad and some fresh fruits. (I LOVE the fruit of Cambodia. It’s always so fresh!) I thought that was a good way to conclude things for today, as it gave myself and the others a chance to reflect on what we’ve learned, and talk about the other plans for the trip. I cannot wait to explore Cambodia more, since it is one of the most interesting countries I have ever visited.