The visit aimed to express gratitude for the contributions of the Khmer community, while also listening to their aspirations, thereby strengthening the great national unity bloc.

At Pothiwong Pagoda in Bay Hien ward, Ha extended warm wishes for health, peace, and a prosperous New Year to all monks, dignitaries, and members of the Khmer community.

She highly appreciated the contributions of Khmer Buddhist monks and dignitaries in guiding the community to live a “good secular life and a virtuous religious life,” comply with national laws and policies, and preserve the humanistic values of Theravada Buddhism.

Citing the viewpoint of Party General Secretary and State President To Lam, as well as the spirit of the 14th National Party Congress, the Deputy Minister emphasised that the great national unity is not only a precious tradition but also a strategic resource that determines the success of Vietnam’s development in the new era.

She noted that the Chol Chnam Thmay festival is an important occasion to further strengthen solidarity between religious life and secular life, and between communities of different ethnic groups.

Receiving the delegation, Most Venerable Tang Ngoc An, abbot of Pothiwong Pagoda, expressed his gratitude and emotion. He also shared expectations that authorities would continue to support education opportunities for ethnic minorities and disadvantaged monks, helping them improve their livelihoods and future prospects.

Representatives from the Ministry affirmed that all concerns and aspirations raised by the community would be carefully noted and considered in policy-making processes.

On the same day, the delegation also visited Candaransi Pagoda in Nhieu Loc ward.

The abbot, Most Venerable Danh Lung, expressed honour in welcoming the delegation. He recalled the pagoda’s long-standing tradition of supporting the revolutionary cause during past resistance wars, including sheltering cadres and treating wounded soldiers. Today, Candaransi Pagoda serves not only as a spiritual centre for the Khmer community but also as a cultural hub hosting major festivals such as Ok Om Bok and traditional boat racing.

The pagoda also provides accommodation and educational support for students from various provinces in southern and central Vietnam, as well as international students from Laos and Cambodia.

Most Venerable Danh Lung reaffirmed that the Khmer community is always willing to share their aspirations with the Party and State and actively contribute to national stability and sustainable development.

Khmer palm-leaf manuscripts: A living cultural heritage

VOV.VN - Palm-leaf manuscripts of the Khmer people made from the leaves of the buông palm (Corypha) represent a unique cultural heritage that reflects the knowledge, beliefs, and reading traditions of the Khmer community in southern Vietnam.