The Cham: Descendants of Ancient Rulers of South China Sea Watch Maritime Dispute From Sidelines

The Cham people are an ethnic minority group indigenous to Cambodia and its surrounding region. They are believed to have originated from the Champa Kingdom, which was a Hindu-Buddhist maritime empire that existed in what is now central and southern Vietnam from the 2nd to the 17th centuri

The Cham people are an ethnic minority group indigenous to Cambodia and its surrounding region. They are believed to have originated from the Champa Kingdom, which was a Hindu-Buddhist maritime empire that existed in what is now central and southern Vietnam from the 2nd to the 17th centuries. The Champa Kingdom was conquered by the Vietnamese in the late 17th century, and many Cham people fled to Cambodia and other neighboring countries.

In Cambodia, the Cham people have faced discrimination and persecution over the years, particularly during the Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s. During this time, an estimated 90% of the Cham population was killed or imprisoned, and their culture, language, and religious practices were suppressed.

Despite this, the Cham people have maintained their unique cultural identity and have been working to preserve their traditions and heritage. Today, there is a growing awareness of the Cham culture and the importance of preserving it for future generations. The Cham people continue to be an integral part of Cambodia's cultural diversity and history, and their contributions to the country's rich cultural heritage are recognized and valued.

Muslim minorities in Cambodia are primarily located in the provinces of Battambang, Kampong Cham, and Phnom Penh. This population is largely comprised of ethnic Cham Muslims who have lived in Cambodia for centuries. Despite their long-standing presence in the country, they continue to face discrimination and marginalization due to their religious identity. The Cambodian government has failed to provide adequate protection for these minority groups, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Additionally, they are often denied access to education and healthcare services due to their religious beliefs. As a result, many Muslim minorities in Cambodia live in poverty and lack basic rights. Despite the challenges they face, these communities remain resilient and continue to strive for a better future for themselves and their families.


Awalludin Ramlee

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Tbaung Khmom is a province located in eastern Cambodia, near the border with Vietnam. The province is known for having a significant population of Cham people, who are an ethnic minority group in Cambodia.

The Cham people are an Austronesian ethnic group who traditionally live in Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. They have their own distinct culture, language, and religion. In Cambodia, the Cham people are predominantly Muslim and are known for their weaving and silverwork. The Cham people in Tbaung Khmom are primarily engaged in agriculture, fishing, and handicrafts.

In the past, the Cham people in Cambodia faced significant discrimination and persecution under the Khmer Rouge regime, which targeted religious and ethnic minorities. Since then, efforts have been made to improve the Cham people's living conditions and promote their cultural heritage. However, challenges remain in terms of ensuring their rights and preserving their traditions in the face of economic and social changes.