Celebrations at Olympic

Heart-throb Preap Sovath tells everyone who is number 1 - Preah Vihear and of course, Preap Sovath

It was hot, sweaty and the waving of flags meant that much of the view from the main floor was obscured but the youths of Cambodia turned out in force last night to enjoy a celebration by a myriad of Khmer singing stars at the Olympic Stadium. It was a government-organized rally to enable the Cambodians present to stick out their chests once again over the recent decision to add Preah Vihear to the World Heritage List. Cabinet Minister Sok An took the stage for an hour to do the formal stuff to party supporters and invited guests before the gates were opened, the youngsters rushed in and the real party began. First up were the crew from the Rock nightclub and they were followed by the great and the good of the Khmer singing fraternity including my new pal, Preap Sovath. The crowd loved it, especially when Sovath sang a song about Preah Vihear and the other artists followed in a similar vein. Over 8,000 packed into the indoor basketball arena and after an hour I left, only to see as many again outside the building watching the festivities on large screens in the stadium car park. Khmers love an opportunity to party!

Kat Sokim gives proceedings some reflection with this traditional Khmer song

The Rock Nightclub crew get the party swinging and the flags waving

Two of Cambodia's biggest singing sensations, Chorn Sovanreach and Sokun Nisa

Another mega-star from the Khmer music scene, Him Sivorn