Cambodia A quick look at the country and culture of Cambodia

Quick Facts Full Country Name: Kingdom of Cambodia Capital: Phnom Penh Language: Khmer Ethnic breakdown: 90% Khmer, 5% Vietnamese, 3% Indigenous (includes Kreung, Bunong, Tampuan & Jarai) Population: Approaching 16 million Currency: Riel (approximately 2,500 riels to 1 NZD )

The Flag

Map and Location

Geography Land area: 181,035 km 2 NZ land area is 268,021 km² Flat plains and rivers are commonTropical 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 population Muslims – 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)

Food Rice is a staple food in Cambodia Water is collected by rainfall to be used Fish 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

Transport Bikes 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 Agriculture Farmers 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%)

Cambodia Did you learn anything new about Cambodia?

Facts Map and location Flag Environment Food Politics Music Sports Religion Farming School Animals Remember Photo credits: Crispin Anderlini and Murray Shearer (Caritas Aotearoa NZ)