ឱ!ភ្នំពេញអើយ Auh! Phnom Penh Euy

January 7th, today marks the 33rd anniversary of the defeat of the Khmer Rouge by the Kampuchean United front with the aid of Vietnam. It only took 3 years to turn a country completely upside down. Under those brutal 3 years a third of the population had been executed or died due to lack of proper healthcare/nutrition. That meant 1 out of every 3 people would not make it past 1979. This tragic event had affected every single Cambodian family and its effects are still very present in a country striving to rebuild itself. Oh! Phnom Penh 3 years I’ve missed you without a moment of ease I’ve parted from you with unbearable pain The enemy has intended to cut off our bond As I was forced to leave you My heart was inflamed with anger Seeking revenge In evidence to prove my loyalty to you Phnom Penh, the heart and soul of Cambodia 3 years you had endured Yet you were still able to stand strong Preserving a rich history of bravery Bestowed upon the Cambodian soul With a history once well known around the world The soul of the Cambodian nation, lives on Descendants living under the shadows of Angkor You continue to live on Oh! Penh Penh I meet you once again You pain is now at ease Oh! the heart and soul of Cambodia Oh! Phnom Penh!