14-4-2024 (PHNOM PENH) The spotlight is shining on Kampot province in Cambodia, thanks to its newest tourist attraction making waves.
Perched on the shores of Kampot Bay, a seahorse sculpture with water gushing from its mouth has captured attention, drawing comparisons to Singapore’s iconic Merlion statue.
While not an exact replica, both sculptures share the spectacle of spouting water.
Another striking similarity lies in their size, with the Merlion towering at 8.6 meters, just slightly taller than Kampot’s 8-meter creation.
According to a Cambodian publication, local and international tourists have been flocking to Kampot Bay to catch a glimpse of the newly minted statue, affectionately dubbed ‘Singapot’—a blend of Singapore and Kampot.
Kampot Province Governor Mao Thonin conducted an inspection of the statue last Wednesday (April 10), a day before its official unveiling.
During the inspection, the governor underscored the significance of Kampot as a prime tourist destination in the south, emphasizing the province’s potential for bolstering its tourism sector.
He noted that an enhanced tourism industry would contribute to economic growth, benefiting both visitors and residents alike.
Situated in front of an old provincial hall, the seahorse sculpture offers a mesmerizing sight after sunset, illuminated by vibrant colored lights.
Symbolizing patience and happiness, the statue serves as a poignant reminder for visitors to savor the tranquil ambiance that Kampot has to offer, as reported by Khmer Times.
This isn’t the first time that Merlion-inspired landmarks have emerged worldwide.
In Japan and China, sculptures bearing an uncanny resemblance to Singapore’s iconic Merlion have been erected. Notably, in Chuzhou, China’s Anhui province, and Hakodate, a prominent city in Japan’s Hokkaido province.
According to the National Heritage Board, the Merlion statue in Hakodate symbolizes the enduring friendship between Hakodate and Singapore, dating back to 1992.
This trend of recreating Singaporean landmarks extends beyond the Merlion. In Medan City’s Percut Sei Tuan district, a housing estate features replicas of iconic Singaporean landmarks, including the Fullerton Hotel arches, the Merlion, the Fountain of Wealth, and even the ERP gantry.
