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Singapore Embassy screens film to celebrate 60 years of Singapore–Cambodia relations

On 9 October 2025, the Singapore Embassy in Phnom Penh hosted a special screening of ‘Kopitiam Days’ to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Cambodia (SG-CAM60). The film is a 120-minute anthology celebrating the heritage and community spirit of Singapore’s kopitiam culture.

The event brought together around 150 guests, including Singaporeans, Permanent Residents, Ambassadors from ASEAN embassies, and Cambodian friends of Singapore. It was the first public screening of a Singaporean film in Cambodia, adding a unique cultural dimension to this milestone anniversary. In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Teo Lay Cheng reflected on the deep cultural connections between Singapore and Cambodia, noting how both nations share a fondness for coffee and the sense of community it inspires. She said: “Kopi culture is a long-standing tradition in Singapore. The word kopitiam comes from kopi (Malay for ‘coffee’) and tiam (Hokkien for ‘shop’). Every Singaporean has a favourite brew — whether it is kopi-o (black coffee with sugar) or kopi-c (with evaporated milk).” The Ambassador added: “While coffee culture in Singapore and Cambodia may take different forms — from the bustling kopitiams of Singapore to Cambodia’s vibrant street cafés and local coffee stalls — both are welcoming spaces where people from all walks of life can gather and catch up.” Ambassador Teo also said: “The screening of ‘Kopitiam Days’ is part of the Embassy’s year-long celebration of 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Cambodia. It reminds us that our friendship extends beyond diplomacy — it is rooted in shared stories and experiences, such as over a cup of coffee.”

Guest-of-Honour Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Dr Phoeurng Sackona spoke about the film as a platform to promote cultural exchange and understanding. She added: “Every year, Cambodian troupes proudly participate in Singapore’s Chingay Parade. Our two countries also collaborate in archaeology and museums, strengthening bonds of knowledge and trust. These exchanges show how culture contributes to diplomacy, development, and the human spirit.” Thanking the Embassy for organizing the event, the Minister also said: “Cultural exchange is more than entertainment – it is a dialogue between communities that builds mutual understanding, respect, and harmony.” The Minister commended the Singapore Embassy and its partners for organising this meaningful screening that celebrates shared heritage and community spirit, expressing confidence that such initiatives will continue to strengthen Cambodia–Singapore cultural and diplomatic ties in the years ahead.

Guests warmly received the film’s heartfelt portrayal of heritage and community.

Singaporean Mrs Queenie Ng shared: “The film brought back many fond memories. I loved how it captured both the nostalgia of the past and the vibrancy of the present, portraying the kopitiam as a place where generations gather. The dialogue in Malay, Tamil, and Chinese dialects also reminded me so much of home. This one-night-only event was such a treat, and it felt especially meaningful to share this experience with Cambodians who came to watch it too. I am really grateful to the Embassy for bringing this slice of Singapore to us.”

Cambodian Mr Mao Veasna added: “The film was touching and relatable. The storytelling was powerful, and the themes of love, family, and community resonated deeply with me. Cambodians also love our coffee, so the kopitiam scenes in the film felt very familiar and comforting. Having lived in Singapore before, I can appreciate how kopitiams bring people together. In Cambodia, coffee stalls and street vendors serve as social meeting points. Many serve Cambodian coffee brewed strong and sweet with condensed milk — quite like kopi.”

SINGAPORE EMBASSY IN PHNOM PENH

13 October 2025

About the Film – ‘Kopitiam Days’

‘Kopitiam Days’ features six stories directed by award-winning filmmakers under the creative direction of Eric Khoo, a pioneering Singaporean filmmaker. Each story pays tribute to the traditional kopitiam — a cornerstone of Singapore’s social fabric — exploring themes of heritage, community, and connection through the everyday lives of ordinary people.

About SG-CAM60

SG-CAM60 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Cambodia. A series of events will be held throughout the year to celebrate the strong bonds of friendship, cooperation, and shared aspirations between the two countries.

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