Attending an event to welcome the festival at Candaransi pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City on April 16, Most Venerable Nhon affirmed that the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) bears in mind the contributions made by Khmer dignitaries and followers to the development of the Vietnamese nation and the VBS. Member of the VBS Executive Council and head of the Candaransi pagoda, Danh Lung, called on the local Khmer community to take more practical actions to improve their living conditions. They were also asked to be clear-sighted in choosing competent people at the upcoming election of deputies to the 14th National Assembly and members of all-level People’s Councils. On these days, in the pagoda, a wide range of activities are being held, including a Buddha bathing ritual, and a prayer ceremony for war martyrs. Chol Chnam Thmay is one of the most important events of the year for the Khmer community. It usually lasts three days and is celebrated in pagodas. This year’s festival falls on April 13 to 15 (the seventh to ninth day of the third lunar month).