Unveiling the Future: Cambodia’s Groundbreaking “Immersive Angkor” 3D Virtual Museum
In an exciting leap into the future of cultural exploration, Prime Minister Hun Manet recently voiced his enthusiastic support for Cambodia’s pioneering venture – the “Immersive Angkor” project. This groundbreaking initiative, hailed as the Kingdom’s first-ever 3D virtual museum, is set to redefine the way we connect with the rich tapestry of history.
Picture this: a realm where the ancient marvels of Angkor come to life in vibrant, multidimensional detail. The visionary behind this endeavor, Geoffroy Ladet, engaged in a high-profile discussion with Prime Minister Hun Manet during a recent meeting. The buzz surrounding the project reached its peak as the Chief Executive Officer of Puy du Fou Asia in Paris threw his weight behind this transformative concept.
Named “Immersive Angkor,” this 3D virtual museum promises to be a game-changer for Cambodia. Ke Bin Soreasmey, CEO of Confluences, a key partner in the project, expressed the nation’s pride in being the rightful heir to Angkor’s legacy. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Soreasmey remains optimistic about the millions of visitors returning to the archaeological park, emphasizing the need for quality over mass tourism.
With technology evolving at an unprecedented pace, the integration of 3D technology into tourism becomes a compelling avenue. Chan Mun Wei, ESG Consultant at Swan & Maclaren Group, points out that 3D technology can revolutionize the visitor experience. Virtual reality (VR) allows potential travelers to embark on virtual tours, providing a taste of destinations before making the decision to visit.
Catherine Germier-Hamel, CEO of Destination Mekong/Millennium Destinations, sees 3D technology as a pivotal force shaping the future of tourism. Beyond enhancing the tourism value chain, it also enriches real-life travel experiences. As the world embraces immersive technologies, the “Immersive Angkor” project positions itself as a global player, opening doors to audiences worldwide.
In the realm of tourism, technology’s role is ever-expanding, notes Craig Dodge, Director of Sales and Marketing at Phare Circus. Artificial Intelligence (AI) contributes to crafting compelling tour descriptions, and chat apps facilitate instant interaction with users.
Soreasmey emphasizes the significance of offering a more comprehensive experience for visitors beyond temple visits. “Immersive Angkor” aims to demystify the intricate history and civilization of the Khmer empire. By delving into not just the great figures but also the societal dynamics of the time, the project seeks to provide visitors with profound insights.