On December 14, 2017, the esteemed Asia Society in New York City hosted a profound discussion titled “Light Beyond Darkness: Memory, Resilience, and Renewal in Cambodia,” featuring the distinguished presence of Angelina Jolie and Phloeun Prim. The event unfolded as a poignant exploration of Cambodia’s past, its path to resilience, and the ongoing journey towards renewal.

The Asia Society provided a platform for two influential figures, Angelina Jolie and Phloeun Prim, to engage in a meaningful daogue about Cambodia’s complex history and the remarkable journey of its people. Both Jolie and Prim, passionate advocates for Cambodia’s cultural preservation and social progress, shared their insights, fostering a greater understanding of the nation’s challenges and triumphs.

Angelina Jolie, known not only for her illustrious career in Hollywood but also for her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes, particularly in Cambodia, brought her unique perspective to the discussion. As a UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador and later as a citizen of Cambodia, Jolie has played a pivotal role in drawing global attention to the country’s struggles and triumphs.

Phloeun Prim, the Executive Director of Cambodia Living Arts, has been instrumental in nurturing Cambodia’s artistic renaissance. His work in preserving traditional Cambodian arts and fostering new creative expressions has been pivotal in the nation’s healing process. His presence at the Asia Society discussion underscored the importance of cultural revival as an integral component of Cambodia’s renewal.

The conversation delved into Cambodia’s painful history, acknowledging the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge era. Angelina Jolie and Phloeun Prim highlighted the significance of collective memory as a catalyst for positive change. Their insights underscored the resilience of the Cambodian people, who, despite enduring immense suffering, have embraced a path of healing and renewal.

Phloeun Prim shared the impactful work of Cambodia Living Arts, an organization dedicated to preserving Cambodia’s traditional arts and fostering new creative expressions. The discussion emphasized the transformative power of art as a healing force, contributing to Cambodia’s renewal by connecting generations, restoring cultural identity, and fostering resilience.

Angelina Jolie, with her global influence, emphasized the need for continued international support in Cambodia’s journey towards renewal. The discussion served as a call to action, urging the global community to stand in solidarity with the Cambodian people as they navigate the complexities of their past and build a brighter future.

The Asia Society’s discussion on Cambodia, led by Angelina Jolie and Phloeun Prim, illuminated the nation’s journey from darkness to light. By acknowledging the painful past, celebrating cultural resilience, and fostering renewal through art and memory, the conversation became a beacon of hope for Cambodia’s future. As the global community witnessed this daogue, it reinforced the importance of collective efforts in supporting nations on their paths to healing and progress.