Language & Customs

LANGUAGE
Khmer is the official language. French is also spoken, but English is fast becoming popular with the younger generation.

CUSTOMS
Permission should be sought before taking pictures of people, particularly monks.

Avoid touching someone on the head as it is considered the most sacred part of a person's body.

Women should wear modest clothing, preferably a long skirt or loose-fitting trousers.

When visiting religious sites, shoes should be removed, and shorts not worn.

A traditional greeting in Cambodia is a bow, bringing together the hands at chest level (similar to hand position for prayer). With foreigners Cambodians sometimes convert to the handshake. The simple rule is to respond with the same greeting you were given.

Developing a personal relationship in Cambodia is important before any business can be discussed, which includes talking with local construction workers on the site, especially the supervisor. Never cause a Khmer to 'lose face', but use tact and an indirect approach to business.

On introductions, the most senior in the group will be introduced first, and visitors are advised to do likewise so that the hosts understand the hierarchy of the group; the highest-ranking person on both sides should greet each other first and perform the introductions. For example, the team leader(s) will introduce the team to the local workers, starting with the older team members. A bow, with hands together, is appropriate response when introduced.

In Cambodia people are addressed with the honorific title 'Lok' for a man and 'Lok Srey' for a woman followed with the first name or both the first and surname.