Phnom Penh shaman ordered to delete posts

Authorities in Phnom Penh have ordered a self‑styled shaman to remove social media content deemed harmful to Cambodian traditions and Buddhism.

On Friday, Kong Channicha was summoned by the city’s Department of Cults and Religion and required to sign a contract pledging to delete videos and photos of his activities. In a statement, he urged supporters to stop sharing his content, warning that those who continue could face legal consequences.

“The Department of Cults and Religion requests that all photos and videos of my activities be deleted from social media,” Channicha said, adding that both old and new material must be removed.

The move reflects growing concern among officials about the influence of online spiritual figures whose practices are seen as clashing with established religious norms. Cambodia’s Buddhist authorities have repeatedly stressed the need to protect customs and prevent misleading claims from spreading online.

Context: Shamans in Cambodia

Shamans, known locally as kru khmer or spiritual healers, play a long‑standing role in Cambodian society. They are often consulted for blessings, healing rituals, fortune‑telling and ceremonies to ward off misfortune. Many communities turn to shamans for guidance in matters of health, family or agriculture, blending animist traditions with Buddhist practices.

While respected in rural areas, their activities sometimes draw scrutiny when they appear to commercialise rituals or promote practices seen as conflicting with mainstream Buddhism. In recent years, the rise of social media has amplified their reach, prompting authorities to intervene when content is judged to undermine cultural or religious values.

The case of Kong Channicha highlights the tension between traditional spiritual practices and modern regulation, as Cambodia seeks to balance cultural heritage with the protection of its dominant Buddhist faith.

-2026-06-01