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Cambodia: The Road to Revival

There are few countries in this world with as tragic a past as Cambodia. Although the country has grown immensely and pressed on toward recovery over the last decade or so, it still suffers heavy internal damage from its traumatic history. The devastation climaxed in the mid 1970s, following years of civil war and violence, when Phnom Penh fell into the hands of the vicious Khmer Rouge, setting into motion one of the most horrific genocides in history. Within days of taking control of the country, the Khmer Rouge evacuated millions of Cambodians into the countryside for agricultural labor. In an effort to create a primitive agrarian utopia, the regime spent the next several years purging the country of everything foreign and modern. Public institutions, churches, and medical facilities were all shut down, depriving citizens of most basic human rights. Everything from money to certain types of clothing was restricted, stripping away culture, freedom, intellectual stimulation, health and safety, and opportunity for independence or growth and stability as a nation. Cambodians were even forced to reject emotion and affectionate human interaction, especially within families. Intellectuals were specifically targeted by the Khmer Rouge and many were sent away to camps to be executed, along with thousands of others in society. The country was heavily bombed by multiple armies, and land mines were littered all over. Life was grim under this tyrant rule. Altogether, almost 2 million people were killed in this mass genocide, due to execution, starvation, exhaustion, disease, and many other heartbreaking causes.

Eventually, the Khmer Rouge was overturned and Cambodia was able to fight its way back to stability and peace. Unfortunately, the devastating effects of the genocide have left a sad imprint on this once flourishing country. Those who survived the destruction will forever endure the absence of lost loved ones and will never be able to escape the horrific memories of the traumatic events they endured. Even more, the thousands of uncharted land mines throughout the countryside continue to maim and injure innocent citizens, marking Cambodia as having one of the highest rates of physical disability in the world. While the Cambodians have since revived their vibrant Khmer culture and reclaimed joy and positivity, the country still deeply suffers from poverty, disease, broken families, lack of education, and corruption in orphanages and schools.

To no surprise, there is ample opportunity to provide aid and assistance in Cambodia. Globe Aware is involved in several different projects that aim to bring Cambodia back to a vivacious and thriving society after so many years of tragedy.  With an estimated 40,000 citizens maimed or injured by land mines, Cambodia faces an ongoing need of suitable wheelchairs for victims. Globe Aware volunteers work to assemble wheel chairs and distribute them amongst those who have spent their lives with limited access to the world around them.

As the tourism industry continues to grow and bring in much needed revenue to rebuild Cambodia, the ability to speak English is also becoming essential for advantageous job opportunities. Globe Aware volunteers also have the opportunity to work in children’s centers, village schools, and Buddhist education centers to provide English pronunciation instruction for students. Additional projects always vary depending on the need at the time but can include constructing wells, building huts, and repairing homes and infrastructures.

Cambodia is ready for a new beginning, and you can help. Even in the midst of its dark past and current tragedies, Cambodia’s wonders are bursting forth with revival and beckoning new visitors to come take part. It’s time to leave behind the devastation of the past and rewrite a promising and hopeful future. Cambodia is ready to be rediscovered.

March Volunteer of the Month: Elaine Lin

http://www.globeaware.org/volunteer-month.

And vote for her on Globe Aware’s Facebook Page!

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Cambodia Lok Lak

This traditional Cambodian dish often served on special occasions! It’s easy to make and is sure to get your taste buds craving more of a zing, citrus flavor!

You will need:  

• 2 lbs. boneless pork chops OR sirloin tip beef roast, diced into small pieces
• 4 tblsp. soy sauce
• 3 tblsp. oyster sauce
• 8 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
• 1 onion, peeled and diced
• 1/4 tsp. Knorr or Chicken bouillon
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• splash of lime juice

Directions

1. In large skillet or wok, cook meat on med-high until half-way done.
2. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer on low for about 10 minutes.
4. Reserve 1 tblsp. sauce from Lok Lak to use in dipping sauce.
5. Serve on a bed of lettuce and tomatoes with Jasmine rice, stir-fried green beans and lime dipping sauce.

LIME DIPPING SAUCE

• Juice from 3 limes
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled, crushed and slightly cooked in Lok Lak drippings
• 1 tsp. Lok Lak drippings
• 1 Tablespoon water
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper