Cambodia & Photo Gallery: Phnom Penh's French-speaking community makes its comeback in style
- Editorial team
- 17 hours ago
- 2 min read
On Saturday 13 September 2025, the Institut Français du Cambodge (IFC) shone with energy and conviviality for the fourth edition of the Forum de rentrée, an event that has become a must for the French and Francophone community in Phnom Penh.
This back-to-school event, organised by the association Français au Cambodge - Plus forts ensemble, brought together more than twenty local organisations and partners in a warm and dynamic atmosphere.
Committed participants and a rich offering
Schools, NGOs, associations, entrepreneurs, healthcare providers, sports clubs and cultural players were on hand to showcase their expertise and offer a variety of services to a multicultural family audience.
Among the participants were Sipar, Acacia International Pre-school, Safetynet, Kanika boat cruise, Eurêka Cambodia, Phnom Climb Community Gym, as well as gastronomic and leisure references such as Malongo, OZ Café & Bistro, and Happy Painting.
Visitors were able to discover a veritable ecosystem of solutions, ranging from educational support to sports, health, artistic creation and local crafts.
An event punctuated by diversity
Throughout the morning, visitors of all ages enjoyed a range of activities, including a climbing wall for children, creative workshops, practical advice and special offers on cultural and leisure activities.
The IFC media library welcomed many curious visitors who came to discover its resources. At 11.00am, a public meeting dedicated to the Caisse des Français de l'Étranger (CFE) provided information and assistance to residents, demonstrating the special attention paid to supporting expatriates.
The Bistrot de l'Institut delighted visitors with its tasty grills and varied sandwiches, prepared to order. The friendly atmosphere allowed everyone to sample these gourmet specialities, ideal for sharing with friends or family in the IFC gardens.
A highlight: the visit of the French ambassador
The highlight of the morning was undoubtedly the official visit of the French ambassador to Cambodia, who came to greet the exhibitors and affirm the support of the diplomatic institution for the vitality of the local French community. His presence was warmly welcomed and reinforced the unifying dimension of the event.
A festive and musical close
To conclude this successful morning, the Franco-Khmer group Les Phnom Penhers gave a live concert in the gardens of the IFC. Families and partners gathered around a drink to share a musical moment full of good humour, perfectly symbolising the open and supportive spirit of the French-speaking community in Phnom Penh.
The Forum de rentrée 2025 lived up to expectations: a morning of fruitful encounters, inspiring exchanges and discoveries, marked by the diversity and cohesion of a close-knit and dynamic community.