It is always a pleasure to visit the beautiful Khmer Buddhist Temple in Rossmore and to be welcomed by my local Cambodian community. On 9 November I had the honour of joining the community to celebrate this year's Cambodian Moon Festival. It is a time that brings people together in the spirit of reflection, family and tradition. Known in Khmer as Bon Om Touk, the festival dates back to the twelfth century under King Jayavarman VII and marks the annual reversal of the Tonlé Sap River—a symbol of renewal and harmony. It remains one of Cambodia's most important celebrations, honouring both nature and community. I also had the pleasure of visiting the temple recently to mark its successful receipt of a Community Building Partnership grant for a new van. The project will help support its community programs. As always, we were met with incredible warmth, generosity and, of course, delicious food. We were offered a feast that included lamb on a spit. In fact, I closed the office and brought everyone to the temple, because there was that much food. I thank the beautiful Khmer Krom community.
Rossmore Khmer Buddhist Temple
13 November 2025

