Image: Zamin.uz

Cambodia Unveils World's First Statue Honoring Mine-Detecting Rat Magawa

05 April, 2026.Asia.5 sources

Key Takeaways

Statue unveiled in Siem Reap, world’s first for a landmine-detecting rat.
Magawa detected over 100 landmines and explosives during a five-year career starting in 2016.
Ceremony in Siem Reap on April 3 attended by Ly Thuch.

Magawa's Heroism Honored

Cambodia unveiled the world's first statue dedicated to a landmine-detecting rat, honoring Magawa.

“- Published A famous mine-clearing rat, who was awarded a gold medal for his heroism, has been commemorated with the world's first statue dedicated to a landmine-detecting rat”

BBC

The statue was carved from local stone and unveiled in Siem Reap for the International Day for Mine Awareness.

BBC

Magawa cleared more than 141,000 square meters of land, equivalent to 20 football pitches.

He was awarded the PDSA Gold Medal, becoming the first rat to receive it.

Magawa retired due to old age and passed away in 2022.

Symbol of Hope and Risk

The statue stands as a symbol of hope and renewal from devastating war.

Senior Minister Ly Thuch said Magawa's work enabled communities to safely restore livelihoods.

Cambodianess

Landmines remain a persistent hazard in Cambodia.

Apopo has trained HeroRATS since 1990 for various humanitarian tasks.

The monument also reflects challenges in Cambodia's evolving post-war identity.

Continuing Work

Magawa detected 71 landmines and 38 unexploded ordnances during his career.

“Cambodia honoured Magawa, the celebrated mine-detection rat, by unveiling a statue in Siem Reap yesterday Cambodia honoured Magawa, the celebrated mine-detection rat, by unveiling a statue in Siem Reap yesterday The ceremony, led by Senior Minister Ly Thuch, celebrated the African giant pouched rat’s extraordinary contribution to clearing remnants of war”