Not all traditions are worth preserving

Written by Vinh Dany

Thursday, 25 June 2009 Phnom Penh Post

Dear Editor, I was very staggered to know that Sun Chandeb hoped to change Chol Mlop, the traditional rite of passage for young Khmer girl (June 23). It is a globalised era and not all ceremonies, traditions and cultures left by our ancestors are worth preserving. As far as I am concerned, Chol Mlop is a biased tradition that keeps girls from contacting outsiders for a certain period of time, and keeps them in the dark so they are ready for a marriage and family life at such young an age. I see Chol Mlop as lost opportunity for women to get an education at schools with men and to advance their career paths. I believe that Khmer women deserve better lives and chances, rather than trying to keep this tradition alive. More than 50 percent of the Cambodian population is female. They are the backbone of this country and could significantly contribute to the development of Cambodia if equal opportunities are allowed. It is time for people to open up their minds and hearts to let Khmer women reach their highest potential. Vinh Dany Phnom Penh