The Cambodia Landmine Museum offers visitors powerful insight into the ongoing impact of landmines in Cambodia.
Established in 1997 by Aki Ra, a former child soldier turned de-miner, the museum serves as a powerful reminder of the Khmer Rouge regime’s horrors while also shining a light on the painstaking efforts to clear unexploded ordnance across the country.
Aki Ra started the museum to raise awareness of the dangers landmines continue to pose and to support the education and rehabilitation of children affected by them. However, in recent years, the museum, which is located near Banteay Srey temple in Siem Reap, has struggled to stay open due to a declining number of visitors.
EXO Foundation, in partnership with EXO Cambodia, recently donated $3000 USD to the museum to cover operational expenses and ensure the museum remains open to spread its powerful message.
‘We believe that keeping Cambodia’s history alive is key for future generations,’ explains Charlotte Piffard, EXO Foundation Leader. ‘The Landmine Museum plays an important role in connecting the past with the present, helping young Cambodians and visitors better understand the struggles and sacrifices that shaped the peace and progress the country enjoys today. We are proud to support their work’.
Cambodia’s landscape is scarred by the remnants of decades of war, including the Khmer Rouge regime, American bombings and Vietnamese occupation. Landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain a pervasive threat to the country’s population. These deadly devices, left behind after conflicts, pose a danger to farmers and civilians, particularly in rural areas.
Efforts to clear these hazards are ongoing, but the challenge remains immense. It is estimated that Cambodia will not be entirely free of landmines for several decades to come.
Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits showcasing deactivated landmines, bombs and other remnants of war. The museum also highlights the personal stories of those impacted, making it a poignant reminder of Cambodia’s war-torn past. This experience is important not only for understanding the country’s history but also for recognising the ongoing efforts to create a safer future.
As Marcel van der Zwaag, EXO Cambodia General Manager, explains, ‘History might not always be pretty, however, examining it offers valuable lessons and can ensure it doesn’t repeat itself once more’.
How to support the Cambodia Landmine Museum
EXO Travel can include a visit to the Cambodia Landmine Museum on any of our tailor-made Cambodia tours. It is a great addition to a visit to Kbal Spean or Banteay Srey, such as this full day experience. As a non-profit centre, the entirety of the $5 USD entrance fee goes to support the museum’s operating costs. The Museum also accepts donations which can be arranged through their website or via EXO Foundation.
EXO Travel is a premium Destination Management Company (DMC) providing bespoke travel solutions across a growing portfolio of global destinations. Our services range from one-off tours for individual travellers to memorable incentive trips for groups of hundreds or thousands.
Established in 1993, we’ve harnessed in-depth local knowledge and a widely-recognized penchant for authentic, groundbreaking touring to become a leading DMC for the premium travel market. As a Certified B Corporation, EXO is also demonstrably committed to sustainability and using travel as a force for good.
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