Ministry’s History

Background of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts

1. Sangkum Reast Niyum Period/ Popular Socialist Community

Cultural affairs were under the supervision of the Ministry of Education.

2. Khmer Republic Period

The Ministry headquarter was established and located inside the Royal Palace and was led by Mr. Um Samut as Minister.

3. People’s Republic of Kampuchea Period

The Ministry headquarter was re-established under the name: Ministry of Propaganda, Culture, and Information. It was located on the corner of the Street 180 and led by Comrade Tok Chenda as Minister, followed by Comrade Cheang Phon as Minister.

4. State of Cambodia Period

The Ministry headquarter remained at the same location under the name: Ministry of Culture and Propaganda, led by Mr. Hang Chhuon as Minister.

5. Kingdom of Cambodia Period

According to Royal Decree No. NS/RKM/0196/02 dated January 24, 1996, promulgating the law on the establishment of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts:

  • 1st Legislature of the National Assembly
    The Ministry Headquarter remained at the same location under the name: Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, led by H.E. Nut Narang as Minister.
  • 2nd Legislature of the National Assembly
    The Ministry headquarter was moved to Norodom Boulevard, Street 227, Tonle Bassac Commune, Chamkar Mon District, Phnom Penh.
    It was led by Samdech Preah Ream Norodom Buppha Devi as Minister.
  • 3rd Legislature of the National Assembly
    The Ministry headquarter remained at the same location, led by Prince Sisowath Panara Sirivudh as Minister, and later by Senior Minister Vong Serivuth as Minister. (At the end of the legislature due to Prince Sisowath Panara Sirivudh was sick)
  • 4th Legislature of the National Assembly
    The Ministry headquarter was remained at the same location, led by H.E. Him Chhem as Minister.
  • 5th and 6th Legislatures of the National Assembly
    The Ministry remained at the same location, led by Her Excellency Dr. Phoeurng Sackona as Minister.