Culture Plagiarism Question Returns as Thai Princess Embroiders Weeks After Cambodia's Sbai Khmer Gift

Phnom Penh, November 6, 2026: Weeks after Cambodia's First Lady presented Sbai Khmer as the Kingdom's gift to Francophonie delegates, Thailand's Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya has been seen attempting traditional silk embroidery at a royal-sponsored event in Bangkok—reviving longstanding concerns over cultural appropriation.

Footage shows the Princess observing a demonstration by the SUPPORT Foundation and trying to embroider a "phum khao bin" rice stalk cluster pattern during a Khon performance of the Ramakien, Episode: Sita.

In Cambodia, the timing has raised eyebrows. H.E. Dr. Pich Chanmony announced last week that Sbai Khmer would be given to delegations attending the 20th Francophonie Summit, describing the textile as heritage passed down by Khmer ancestors since ancient times.

Sbai Khmer is woven from fine silk or golden threads and decorated with Phka Chan and Chak Chan motifs mirroring the carvings of Cambodia's ancient temples, carrying meanings of blessing, prosperity and happiness.

Cambodian observers have repeatedly raised concerns about Thailand adopting elements of Khmer cultural heritage and presenting them as its own. The Siha Nakhon temple in Buriram, modelled on Angkor Wat, was previously criticised by Cambodia's Culture Minister as a violation of "the identity and soul of Khmer culture" and "a serious lack of heritage ethics."


Critics argue the pattern is consistent: Cambodian heritage gains international attention, and a Thai version follows. Whether the Princess's embroidery demonstration constitutes appropriation or coincidence, they say, the question itself keeps recurring for a reason.

Source: Social media footage via @Shi_147; Office of the First Lady of Cambodia, Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts

https://x.com/Shi_147/status/2117998094608715998/video/2

https://www.facebook.com/chanmony.pich.9/posts/pfbid02Asnv9ExQkQgLCt8gm5wdKvRaSvMT81M7T3esTRaJgtxqDc9CVjGTQ1kNhECpdxSql
https://www.facebook.com/KhmerCultureMinistry/posts/pfbid02BzLnuYbj1VixRwbMR6z77wHefbNUr1yKCL6pXnfGHKhPJzegwRfMrEvTStA5Rceyl
Reported by The Khmer Daily Network