in the Cambodian Community
- When you greet or say goodbye to the Cambodian people and monks, smile. Wave to them when you make eye contact.
- To show respect, put both hands together with your fingers pointing up and out, and the base of your hands next to your chest. Then bow your head slightly, keeping your eyes on the person you are acknowledging.
- Handshaking is less of a greeting ritual among Cambodian people; women should avoid physical contact with monks (male).
- Take off your shoes when you enter a person’s home.
- Always accept the food or drink they offer you. You don’t have to eat or drink if you don’t want to.
- Sit at the same level as the Cambodian people. For example, if they sit on the ground, you sit on the ground; if they sit in chairs, you sit in a similar chair. This is especially important when you are with elders of the community.
- Before you begin your talk, acknowledge the elders (oldest ones first).