When Buddhism meets Environmental Stewardship
On August 28, 2024, the Veal Konseng Community Forest, local authorities, community members, and religious leaders gathered in a shared commitment to environmental protection. The Tree Ordination Ceremony, attended by 123 participants including 56 women, was a profound demonstration of how cultural and spiritual traditions can be harnessed to foster a sense of unity with nature and promote conservation.
The participation of the Deputy Governor of Chloung District, representatives from the Police Post of Kompong Damrei, the Village Chief of Veal Konseng, the community members and monks underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between government officials, local leaders, and religious institutions in promoting environmental conservation.
The Significance of Tree Ordination
Tree ordination is a unique practice that symbolizes the sacredness of trees and the forests they inhabit. During the ceremony, trees were “ordained” by tying sacred robes around them. This act serves multiple purposes:
- Protection of Natural Resources: By linking the act of protecting trees with religious beliefs, the ceremony reinforces the message that these trees are to be protected and preserved, not cut down.
- Promotion of Environmental Awareness: The event serves as a powerful reminder to the community about the importance of conserving natural resources for future generations.
- Cultural and Spiritual Connection: The practice of tree ordination connects Buddhism with the natural world, highlighting the belief that protecting the environment is a moral duty.
The robes tied around the trees are more than just a symbol—they represent a vow to protect these living beings from harm, reflecting the community’s commitment to sustainable forest management.
The ceremony also honored the local deity, Arok Neak Ta, a guardian spirit believed to protect the forest. By invoking traditional practices, the community reinforced its cultural heritage while advocating for the preservation of the environment. This blend of tradition and environmentalism serves as a powerful tool in promoting conservation efforts.





Messages from Authorities
Local authorities who attended the ceremony emphasized the critical role that such events play in raising awareness about forest conservation. They highlighted that forests are invaluable to humanity, providing resources and ecological balance that benefit everyone. The authorities called upon all community members to join forces in protecting the forest, stressing the importance of adhering to forest laws to prevent illegal deforestation.
“Forests are for the benefit of humanity,” said one official. “We must all be involved in their protection to ensure they survive for future generations.”
The Path Forward: Collective Responsibility
As we look to the future, the Tree Ordination Ceremony at Veal Konseng Community Forest serves as a reminder of the powerful impact that collective action can have. By blending religious traditions with environmental stewardship, we can inspire communities to take an active role in preserving their natural resources.
This event is not just a celebration of trees but a call to action—a plea for everyone to recognize the vital role forests play in our lives and to commit to their protection.
Let’s continue to honor cultural traditions, protect forests, and ensure that these natural resources thrive for generations to come.
Join us in our mission to conserve and protect. Together, we can make a difference.