CambodiaA quick look at the

country and culture of Cambodia

Quick FactsFull Country Name: Kingdom of CambodiaCapital: Phnom PenhLanguage: KhmerEthnic breakdown: 90% Khmer,

5% Vietnamese,3% Indigenous (includes Kreung, Bunong, Tampuan &

Jarai)

Population: Approaching 16 million Currency: Riel

(approximately 2,500 riels to 1NZD)

The Flag

Map and Location

Geography

Land area: 181,035 km2NZ land area is

268,021 km²

Flat plains and rivers are common

Tropical rainforests cover 50% of the country

So New Zealand is about 1 ½ times bigger in terms of land area.

Religion

Buddhists make up 95% of the populationMuslims – 3% Other religions – 2% (including Christians and animists)

Many amazing temples (wats) and shrines can be found in Cambodia.

Buddhists monks live very simple lives.

Political Leaders

Royal Family:King Norodom Sihamoni (since 2004)

Head of Government:Prime Minister Hun Sen (over 25 years in office)

FoodRice is a staple food in CambodiaWater is collected by rainfall to be

usedFish is a common protein as anyone can do fishing in the nearby rivers

and seas

Other common vegetables include:cassava, cucumbers, egg plants,

potatoes and beans

Many tasty fruits are grown in Cambodia like banana, pineapple,

papaya, melon, and jackfruit

TransportBikes are common especially in the

cities

Walking is a good strategy in the village

Music and Festivals

Music is an important part of Cambodian culture – check out these hand drums!

Special festivals happen during the year

Here an offering is being made in the village

Sports and Recreation

Sepak takraw is a popular

game.

It is a bit like volleyball but you use your

feet!Bokator is a kind of kick boxing

Football is enjoyed by many in Cambodia

Volleyball is a great game in the village

Farming and AgricultureFarmers rely on the land and work

hard!

Check out the process to produce rice…

In fact 80% of Cambodians live outside of cities in rural areas.

Animals

CHALLENGE:

Work your way through these animals and

insects found in Cambodia…

How many can you name?

School

Most Cambodian children get to go to primary school

The experience is a little different from school in New Zealand

Many children do not get a chance to go to secondary school (only about

25%)

CambodiaDid you learn anything

new about Cambodia?

• Facts• Map and

location• Flag• Environment• Food• Politics

• Music• Sports• Religion• Farming• School• Animals

Remem ber

Photo credits: Crispin Anderlini and Murray Shearer (Caritas Aotearoa NZ)