Young individuals in Cambodia have been cautioned against “losing dignity” this Valentine’s Day, as authorities have issued warnings regarding the risks of engaging in premarital sex.
The Ministry of Education has instructed schools to “take measures to prevent inappropriate activities on Valentine’s Day,” emphasizing that the occasion is “not part of our Khmer nationality’s tradition.”
Premarital sex, especially among women, is culturally taboo in Cambodia.
While Valentine’s Day has gained popularity among Cambodian youth in recent years, with many shops and street vendors selling flowers like roses adorned in pink and red packaging and heart-shaped items, those with more traditional and socially conservative views perceive it as a foreign celebration that undermines the country’s Buddhist culture.
The Chbab Srey (the Code of Conduct for Women) delineates the expected behavior of women and girls in Cambodia, emphasizing the importance of women being “virtuous” and central to domestic life, according to the UN.
The Ministry of Women’s Affairs has also echoed concerns, stating that some individuals “misinterpret the meaning” of Valentine’s Day.
Additionally, the Ministry of Culture has urged authorities and parents to remind children to observe the day “in accordance with the beautiful Khmer tradition for the sake of their honor and dignity.”
Cambodia’s National AIDS Authority has joined the discourse by urging individuals to refrain from engaging in sexual activity and instead suggested marking the occasion by celebrating love for family and friends.
It’s worth noting that Cambodia is not the sole country where February 14th has sparked controversy in the past.
From 2008 to 2019, religious authorities in Saudi Arabia banned the sale of Valentine’s gifts, including red roses, deeming the celebration un-Islamic.
Similarly, in India and Pakistan, religious groups have previously protested against Valentine’s Day celebrations, arguing that they are disrespectful to Hinduism and Islam.
Source-BBC
