Chhay-dam drum dancing, an indispensible part of Khmer festivals in the southern province of Tay Ninh, has been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage.
The People’s Committee of Truong Tay commune, Hoa Thanh district held a ceremony on June 22 to receive the honour.
Chhay-dam drum is made from the hollow tree-trunk of old areca tree. Artisans will use their elbows and heels to beat the drum in time with rhythmical hand-dance movements.
The dance style was taught to Khmer people in Tay Ninh by a Cambodian in 1972 and performed at festivals of the Cao Dai Church in the province.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the Hoa Thanh district People’s Committee said local authorities have created favourable conditions for locals to preserve and uphold the value of the art genre through organising community activities and training courses for the young Khmer people.