Temple Dress Code from Kamboçya: Transparent Clothing and Thin Straps Banned

The Kamboçya Ministry of Religions and Cults has called on the public, especially the youth, to adhere to traditional values and Buddhist discipline by issuing a new directive titled "Culture of Visiting Buddhist Temples." Enforced on 25 Haziran, these rules emphasize that temples are not only places of worship but also cultural centers where moral values, literature, and traditional architecture are preserved. It is noted that recently, some visitors have exhibited behaviors that are incompatible with Kamboçya's rich cultural heritage. In particular, photos and videos taken to be shared on social media are said to contain disrespect towards the temples. The Ministry prepared a seven-article guide to reverse this negative trend and maintain the peace of the temples.

One of the most notable rules is the absolute prohibition of wearing inappropriate clothing during temple visits. Accordingly, transparent fabrics, backless clothing, thin-strapped tops, shorts and skirts above the knee, and overly tight clothing will absolutely not be accepted. Strict compliance with these dress codes is requested when paying respect to monks, standing in front of Buddha statues, or taking photos in the temple garden. Furthermore, visitors should avoid wearing hats inside the temple and refrain from honking their vehicle horns. Individuals riding motorcycles and bicycles must dismount at the temple entrance gate and push their vehicles. The Ministry stated that those who do not follow the rules disrupt the sanctity of the temple and that this will not be tolerated.

Along with the dress code, the rules of conduct within the place of worship were also clarified with the new directive. Visitors are required to refrain from all displays of affection and physical contact within the temple premises. Removing shoes before entering the main worship hall, monks' residences, and other sacred areas has been made mandatory for all visitors. Not making noise, not speaking loudly, not laughing, and absolutely not using foul language are among the basic manners expected. While great respect is also demanded for the physical structure of the temple, actions such as writing on walls, littering, and polluting religious structures have been strictly prohibited.

The etiquette for interacting with Buddhist monks also stands out as one of the issues the Ministry heavily emphasizes. According to the directive, when encountering monks, the traditional greeting gesture of "sampeah" should be made, and respectful language appropriate to the monastic order must be used. Women are required to maintain an appropriate physical distance and strictly avoid physical contact when offering donations or religious items to monks. All visitors, including men, are obliged to sit carefully so as not to point their feet towards the monks or Buddha statues. These rules are interpreted as a manifestation of the deep respect that must be shown to the spiritual hierarchy and religious figures in the temples.

Finally, the Ministry emphasized that temple premises should never be used to consume alcohol, wander around drunk, commit fraud, or gamble. It is recommended that Kamboçya scarves and long skirts be kept at the temples for local and foreign female visitors who do not come in appropriate clothing. The Din ve Tarikatlar Bakanlığı invited the entire public, especially the youth, to implement these rules with a sense of responsibility, asking them to contribute to the preservation of Buddhism as the state religion. It was emphasized that this step was taken to pass on Kamboçya's deep-rooted cultural heritage and Khmer traditions to future generations. Officials have repeatedly stated how critical a role these rules play in protecting the national identity of the country.