The government will support Cambodia’s restoration of ancient Angkor heritage in Siem Reap province through management administration and nurturing researchers, the Cultural Heritage Administration said Wednesday.

The state-heritage management agency will sign a memorandum of understanding with the Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap on Thursday in Phnom Penh to collaborate on the restoration of the Preah Pithu ruins. The buildings are assumed to have been built in the 12th-13th century.

The monastery in Angkor Thom reflects styles of both Buddhist and Hindu architecture. Thick forestry blocking the sunlight and high humidity have been damaging the ancient site, the authorities said.

“We will need to look into the details in the future, but we are expecting foundational field research to be conducted around next year,” said Lee Ye-na, a CHA official.

By Bae Ji-sook (baejisook@heraldcorp.com)