fbpx
Wikipedia

Norodom Sihamoni

January 01, 1970

In this Cambodian name, the surname is Norodom. In accordance with Cambodian custom, this person should be referred to by the given name, Sihamoni.

Norodom Sihamoni (Khmer: នរោត្តម សីហមុនី, [nɔˈroːɗɑm səjˈhamoniː]; born 14 May 1953) is King of Cambodia. He became King on 14 October 2004, a week after the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk.[1]

Norodom Sihamoni
  • នរោត្តម សីហមុនី
Sihamoni in 2019
King of Cambodia
Reign14 October 2004 – present
Coronation29 October 2004
PredecessorNorodom Sihanouk
Prime ministers
Born (1953-05-14) 14 May 1953 (age 70)
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, French Indochina
HouseNorodom
FatherNorodom Sihanouk
MotherNorodom Monineath
ReligionTheravada Buddhism
Signature
Alma materAcademy of Performing Arts in Prague
WebsiteOfficial website

He is the eldest son of King Sihanouk and former Queen consort Norodom Monineath and is the fourth monarch from the royal House of Norodom. Before his selection by a nine-member throne council as the next monarch, Sihamoni served as Cambodia's ambassador to the United Nations and UNESCO. He was educated in Czechoslovakia and was known for his work as a cultural ambassador in Europe and as a classical ballet instructor when he was still a prince. During his reign, Sihamoni has continued his cultural advocacy alongside supporting various philanthropic causes, while balancing his role as a constitutional monarch amid Cambodia’s political developments.

Early life edit

 
Prince Sihamoni with his half-sister Princess Norodom Buppha Devi receiving a bouquet of flowers from US Senator Mike Mansfield in 1969.

Birth, name and family edit

Sihamoni was born on Thursday 14 May 1953, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia when it was still a colonial protectorate within French Indochina. The prince’s birth at the time was viewed as a positive omen as Cambodia gained independence from France later in that year.[2][3]

His given name "Sihamoni" comprises two morphemes from his parents' given names "Sihanouk" and "Monineath". As for "Norodom", this means Narottam in Pali and Prakrit, which translates to 'the best amongst men'. The name has a similar meaning in Khmer as well.[4][5][6]

At the time of his birth and that of his younger brother, his mother Princess Monique who is of Khmer, French and Corsican descent, had been one of King Norodom Sihanouk's consorts after being a constant companion since the day they met in 1951, when she won first prize in a national beauty contest.[7] The queen was granted the title of Neak Moneang and the name of Monineath at the time of her marriage to King Norodom Sihanouk in 1952. Furthermore, Queen Monineath is a step-granddaughter of the late Prince Norodom Duong Chakr of Cambodia, and the daughter of Pomme Peang and of her second husband, Jean-François Izzi, a Corsican banker.[8]

Sihamoni has 14 half-brothers and half-sisters by his father; his only full sibling, a younger brother, Samdech Norodom Narindrapong, was born in 1954 and died in 2003.[9][10]

Education and life abroad edit

The then-Prince Sihamoni first began his education in 1959, where he attended Norodom School, followed by Lycée Descartes School in Phnom Penh, developing a keen interest in the arts early on in his life.[2][11]

 
Prince Sihamoni when he was young as shown on the 200 riel.

In 1962 the young Sihamoni was sent to Prague in Czechoslovakia by his father to study abroad. There, he completed his early education at Majakovskeho Primary School and later at Ostrovni Elementary School. When he was in his preadolescence years, he starred in a production of Pyotr Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker at the prestigious Prague National Theatre, where he pursued private ballet and piano classes and was once even selected for a television rendition of Brundibár, a well-known children's opera. He then concluded his secondary education at the National Prague Conservatory and was regarded as an able student, getting high marks. Here, he further developed his interest in the performing arts, undertaking courses in this field and excelling at the top of his class. Furthermore, he attained great fluency in Czech.[2][12][13] A movie directed by Vladimir Sís was shot about the prince in Prague in 1967, under the name The Other Little Prince (Jiný malý princ).[14] The prince would occasionally visit his homeland for holidays of which when he did, he involved himself in Cambodia's arts and cultural scene, including starring in a film made by his father and performing ballet. During the 1970 coup d'état by Lon Nol that saw Sihanouk removed from power and a Khmer Republic being proclaimed, exacerbating the Cambodian Civil War, Sihamoni remained in Czechoslovakia.[15]

Between 1971 and 1975, Sihamoni completed his higher education in classical dance and music at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, culminating with the attainment of a Master's degree for which he wrote a thesis titled The Conception and Administration of Artistic Schools in Cambodia. After graduation in 1975, he left Prague and began to study filmmaking in North Korea at the National Academy of Cinematography in Pyongyang.[2][16]

Return to Cambodia edit

The fall of Phnom Penh on 17 April 1975 led to the demise of the Khmer Republic and the creation of Democratic Kampuchea by the Khmer Rouge who oversaw a brutal campaign of genocide.[17][18] In the following year of 1976, Sihamoni was forced to come back to Cambodia after having been deceived by the Khmer Rouge with a forged telegram, undersigned by King Sihanouk ordering his return.[19][20] Immediately, the ruling Khmer Rouge regime headed by Pol Pot turned against the monarchy, and put the royal family including Sihamoni, his brother Prince Norodom Narindrapong, his mother Queen Norodom Monineath, his father King Norodom Sihanouk under house arrest in the Royal Palace. The consequent Cambodian genocide saw several members of the wider royal family killed and Sihamoni and his immediate family lived in daily fear for their lives, effectively shut off from the outside world. Throughout their period of house arrest, the prince recounted how they were prohibited from making contact with anyone and was barred from having any staff. The Khmer Rouge soldiers would give them food consisting of rice and fish that was limited to two times a week and they had to for the most part, cultivate their own food from the palace gardens. With the Cambodian–Vietnamese War, which resulted in the ousting of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 and the establishment of the Vietnamese installed People's Republic of Kampuchea, the family, aided by the Chinese government, was airlifted to China. Sihamoni subsequently worked as a secretary for his father who spearheaded a resistance movement in response to the Vietnamese occupation.[21][22][23][24][25]

Career edit

In 1981 Sihamoni moved to France to teach ballet as a professor of classical dance and artistic pedagogy, a position which he held for almost two decades, at various conservatoires, including the Marius Petipa Conservatory, the Gabriel Faure Conservatory and the W.A. Mozart Conservatory. He was also later president of the Khmer Dance Association there. He lived in France for nearly 20 years and continued his pursuit in the arts, establishing 'Ballet Deva', an original dance troupe, in which he served as its General Manager and Artistic Director, alongside heading the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation. In his line of work, he placed emphasis on giving opportunities for men to feature more prominently in traditional Khmer dance where they are often not assigned leading roles when he created "Duel", a unique ballet style inspired by the Russian ballet.[22][2][24] During this overseas period, for a time, he also entered into the monkhood under the auspices of Samdech Bour Kry, who would later become a supreme patriarch of Cambodia.[26]

In the early 1990s, Cambodia's Supreme National Council, which was recognized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 668 as part of the transitional process in the country pursuant to the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, unanimously selected Prince Sihamoni in 1992 as its permanent representative to the United Nations, which he served until 1993. That same year of 1993 saw the restoration of the monarchy, with Sihanouk returning as King and the prince being appointed as Cambodia's permanent representative to UNESCO in Paris, a role he held right until he became King in 2004. In this role, Sihamoni became known for his hard work and devotion to Cambodian culture as seen by his advocacy for the international recognition of Khmer classical ballet and shadow theatre as an intangible cultural heritage. He had previously refused an appointment as Cambodia's ambassador to France. In October 2003, he was additionally appointed as a High Privy Counselor to then-King Norodom Sihanouk.[27][22][24][2][28]

Reign edit

Accession and coronation edit

On 14 October 2004, Sihamoni was chosen as monarch by the Royal Council of the Throne, a special nine-member constitutional body that is tasked with electing the King of Cambodia. This selection process was quickly put into place after the surprise abdication of King Norodom Sihanouk the week before. At that time, there was no provisions in the nation’s constitution that covered the subject of abdication. Prince Sihamoni's selection was endorsed by Prime Minister Hun Sen and the then National Assembly President Prince Norodom Ranariddh (Sihamoni's half-brother), both members of the throne council. King Sihanouk backed the decision as well.[29][30][31] A few years before his selection, there was speculation about potential succession after he was seen deputizing on Sihanouk's behalf at official functions despite him being rarely seen in public,[32][33] although much of the initial speculation focused on Ranariddh who was the preferred choice of his parents, but who ultimately expressed disinterest in acceding to the throne.[34][35][36] Sihamoni was said to have been reluctant to take on the stately role, but nevertheless accepted it in the national interest,[37][38] returning on 20 October to Phnom Penh, accompanied by his parents, King-Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath, to an estimated 100,000 people who lined their motorcade route from Phnom Penh International Airport to the Royal Palace to welcome the soon-to-be King.[39][40]

 
A public portrait of King Sihamoni in Phnom Penh of which he is pictured sitting on the throne on his Coronation Day

Then-Prince Sihamoni's accession to the throne was reflected upon by journalist Michael Sheridan of The Sunday Times whom on 17 October 2004 remarked:

The extraordinary story of the aesthete who flies home this week to become king of Cambodia — and of the men who nearly had him killed — can be summed up for most people in the capital, Phnom Penh by the tale of two buildings on the banks of the Mekong River. One is the glorious golden-roofed royal palace, gaily illuminated by hundreds of festive lights in celebration of the announcement that the bachelor prince, Norodom Sihamoni, is to succeed his father King Norodom Sihanouk . . . Within its walls, father and son endured captivity at the hands of the Khmer Rouge, not knowing from day to day whether the revolutionaries might order their murder. The other building is the concrete 1950s Chaktamuk theatre, nearby, where the surviving members of the Khmer Rouge regime, most now frail old men, are expected to face trial for genocide before an internationally funded tribunal. Two momentous dramas in Cambodia's modern history - the chequered rule of King Sihanouk and the [Khmer Rouge’s] blood-drenched attempt to create a Marxist utopia - are therefore drawing to a close at the same time.[41]

Sheridan's reflection encapsulated the symbolism of the moment in Cambodia's monarchical transition as these two indelible chapters etched into its national story; the undisputed significance of King Sihanouk's influential rule and the undeniably traumatic genocidal rule of the Khmer Rouge are juxtaposed with one another as the country entered a new historical era under the reign of King Sihamoni.[42]

He was then inaugurated and formally appointed as King on 29 October 2004 in a coronation ceremony centered at the Royal Palace in the capital.[43][44] The coronation was noted for its relative simplicity, which was specifically requested by King-Father Sihanouk. King Sihamoni himself did not want the ceremonies to be too lavish because he did not wish for the impoverished country to spend too much money on the event, opting for a more modest affair. In a break with precedent, Sihamoni did not assume his seat on the higher, elevated throne nor did he wear the gold-and-diamond monarchial crown that came with the royal regalia.[39][45][46]

 
King Sihamoni on the 100,000 riel receiving blessings from his parents, former King Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Norodom Monineath during his coronation ceremony

In his first public speech as monarch, he acknowledged words of wisdom imparted to him by his father and pledged to be a king of the people by saying:

My august father, at the very moment of my election as King of Cambodia by the highly respected Throne Council, said to me . . . 'it is by being in contact with the people and the realities of the country that one learns how to become more and more capable of serving, defending and developing Cambodia and the Cambodian nation.' My respected and beloved compatriots, I will always be your faithful and devoted servant. I will never live apart from the beloved people. The Royal House will remain a transparent house and for me there will never be an ivory tower.

— King Norodom Sihamoni[47][45][48]

In the first six months after his coronation, Sihamoni ensured to pay regular visits to his fellow Cambodians, especially those in the provinces and countryside, including occasionally making surprise visits. He was praised by observers for "being close to the people and having a gentle touch", though they also noted he still needed time to independently carve out his own role as monarch amid the influential role of his father, former King Sihanouk, notwithstanding his abdication.[49]

On 29 October 2014, there were celebrations to mark the 10th anniversary of his coronation. Well-wishers representing different cross sections of the kingdom's population congregated outside the royal palace to commemorate the occasion and pay their respects to the King.[50][51]

Privy advisory council edit

 
King Sihamoni meeting with South Korean president Lee Myung-bak in the Throne Hall of the Royal Palace in 2009.
 
Rwandan Ambassador to Cambodia Yasmin D. Amri Sued presents her letter of credence to King Sihamoni in 2022

On 12 December 2008, it was reported that Sihamoni had selected twenty-six members of the Cambodian royal family to his advisory court, among them his half-brother and former Prime Minister Prince Norodom Ranariddh as chief advisor and president of the council. Other choices included Prince Sisowath Sirirath, Princess Norodom Marie (estranged wife of Prince Ranariddh) and Prince Sisowath Thomico.[52][53] The King's half-sister and Cambodia's former Ambassador to Malaysia, Princess Norodom Arunrasmy[54] and uncle, Prince Norodom Sirivudh were also duly appointed members.[55]

The appointments was seen at the time by observers as signaling the cessation of royal family members participating in politics as theoretically, the constitution did not allow individuals to concurrently serve in both the royal court and government.[52] Indeed, royalism has long been a staple in Cambodian political history, with periods where royalist parties had once governed the country, such as the Sangkum of then-Prince Sihanouk in the 1950s and 1960s and the FUNCINPEC party of Prince Ranariddh in the 1990s.[56][57] Responding to the commentary, some ruling party officials and members of the royal family insisted that there was no agenda behind the move, and that it should not be construed as the prohibition or end of royal political involvement,[52] despite the influence and electoral success of royalist political parties having waned significantly over time.[58][59]

In late July 2023, upon the resignation of Prime Minister Hun Sen, it was announced that the King will appoint him to take up the position as head of the council, succeeding Ranariddh who had died in 2021.[60][61] This coincided with the announcement that National Assembly President Heng Samrin, Interior Minister Sar Kheng, Defence Minister Tea Banh, and National Assembly-Senate Relations and Inspection Minister Men Sam An, the latter three of whom concurrently served as Deputy Prime Ministers, will too be appointed as privy counsellors once they have relinquished their respective positions. The appointments came into effect later in the following month.[62][63]

On 4 September 2023, the King made additional appointments to the council that included former Foreign Minister Hor Namhong and former Supreme Court President Dith Munty.[64]

Political role edit

 
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with King Sihamoni in 2010

The King has limited political powers and rarely gets involved in the Cambodian political space, in conformance with his position as a constitutional monarch, and is considered to be 'above politics'.[65][66][67] Some Cambodian opposition figures, however, have called for him to be more vocal and directly involved in the political issues of the country, like his predecessor, King-father Norodom Sihanouk was, contending that the King has the constitutional prerogative to do so, in terms of powers accorded to him.[68][69] Conversely, others have cautioned against this notion, citing that the constitution strictly warrants for a predominantly ceremonial monarch that "shall reign but shall not govern", noting that resorting to political intervention is neither in the long-term interests of the monarchy nor nation,[70][71] and Sihamoni, since the outset of his reign, has pledged and adhered to a largely apolitical stance.[72][73] Indeed, during the monarchical selection process, King Sihanouk touted then Prince Sihamoni's neutral and impartial approach to politics as a key trait for why he is suited to the role.[74] This is reinforced by analysis from observers that Sihamoni "has represented both continuity and change — withdrawing royalty from active politics, but advancing it as a symbol of national reconciliation", thereby restoring the "monarchy's traditional role as an 'umbrella' under which Cambodians could unite."[75] In turn, observers argue that this limits any politicization of the monarchy as an institution whilst maintaining its neutrality as well as legitimacy, especially amid the context of the sometimes controversial and turbulent nature of Cambodian politics.[76][77]

Bilateral border dispute edit

Nevertheless, there has been several occasions where Sihamoni's reluctance to be involved in the political arena have been tested. In 2005, in the first major political challenge of his reign, it was reported that he was hesitant to authorize the royal assent for the government's plans to give effect to a controversial border treaty with neighbouring Vietnam, which was compounded by his predecessor, King-father Sihanouk's objection. This apparently caused tension with the government after Prime Minister Hun Sen expressed frustration about the royal assent delay to the point that abolition of the monarchy was suggested.[78][79][80][81] Sihamoni eventually signed the treaty, after having been assured by government and legislative officials as well as other members of the royal family, that no land would be ceded to Vietnam as a result of the promulgation of the bilateral treaty.[82][83]

Political pardons edit

 
King Sihamoni is seen with then-President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte in 2016

In 2006, at the government's petition, he granted a pardon to leading opposition politicians, namely Sam Rainsy and Cheam Channy, who originally had their parliamentary immunity annulled and were facing charges viewed as politically motivated.[84][85] In regards to Rainsy, he was embroiled in a legal dispute with Prime Minister Hun Sen, over a 1997 grenade attack on a political rally, which injured Rainsy, as he was giving a speech. He had accused Prime Minister Sen of being involved, an accusation that the Prime Minister denies, though Rainsy later expressed regret in making the claim.[86][87][88] As for Channy, he was designated as a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty International, where he was convicted for fraud and in attempting to conspire to overthrow the government.[89][90] At the time, the move by Sihamoni was found to be encouraging by international observers as it indicated a conciliatory gesture that points to a reduction of political tensions and restoration of multi-party democracy in the country.[91][92][93]

In 2009, Sihamoni, upon considering the appeals made to him for the review of the conviction verdict against opposition-affiliated journalist and editor Hang Chakra, who was jailed on charges of "criminal disinformation", sought the government's support for a prospective royal pardon. The appeals were made to him in his capacity as a member of the Supreme Council of the Magistracy. This request was reportedly rejected by the government for reasons not stated, but it was eventually later accepted, of which Sihamoni went on to grant a full pardon to Chakra in 2010.[94][95][96]

During late 2009, amid then-strained diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand, Sihamoni pardoned a Thai national, Siwarak Chutipongse, on humanitarian grounds after a request by multiple parties, including Siwarak's mother, the Pheu Thai Party and former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Siwarak had been controversially charged and jailed by a Cambodian court for espionage due to him leaking sensitive flight-related details of Thaksin to Thai officials. Around that time, Thaksin was living in exile abroad despite being a wanted fugitive for corruption in his homeland, which he challenged. He also served as an advisor to the Cambodian government, which publicly backed Thaksin and resisted the extradition attempt from the Thai government.[97][98][99][100]

General election of 2013 and aftermath edit

For the interest of the nation and our people, and for peace and national stability, I would like to appeal to the two political parties that people have voted for . . . to continue to find a peaceful solution to the dispute and the remaining issues. I also would like to appeal to all people to stay calm for the dignity of the nation and continue to conduct business peacefully.

King Sihamoni's public statement in August 2013 amid the political crisis arising from that year's election[101]

In the lead-up to the 2013 Cambodian general election, Sihamoni at the request of the government, granted a royal pardon which enabled then Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy, who had been in self-imposed exile since 2009, to partake in the election which was welcomed by the United Nations.[102][103] Prior to the pardoning, Rainsy had found himself in legal jeopardy once again due to another politically-motivated charge brought against him arising from an incident in 2009.[104] When the election outcome became disputed between the ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP) and opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), the subsequent aftermath resulted in the 2013–2014 Cambodian protests.[105][106][107][108]

Consequently, in what is regarded as the first time he had intervened directly to try to resolve a political dispute, the King attempted to play a mediating role and urged for national reconciliation, by exercising his moral authority to facilitate talks between the two party leaders, Rainsy and Prime Minister Hun Sen. He implored for a de-escalation of tensions, including an end to the violence between the protestors and authorities, and for the parties to find common ground towards a resolution regarding their issues.[109][110][111][112][113] In late July 2014, the CPP and CNRP eventually reached a mutually agreed deal to resolve the political impasse.[114][115]

 
French Prime Minister François Fillon with King Sihamoni in 2011 at the Baphuon temple

After this, in August 2014, Sihamoni would formally swear-in Rainsy and the CNRP members of parliaments who had up until then, refused to assume their seats in the National Assembly because of the dispute, though he had earlier officiated Prime Minister Sen's and CPP lawmakers' swearing-in ceremony in September of the previous year due to a constitutional necessity.[116][117] He later encouraged the two sides to "continue to work together for the sake of stability, development and national unity"[118] and for a time, there was a 'culture of dialogue' between the rival political parties.[119] This period of dialogue was relatively short-lived as tensions soon manifested again that culminated in the dissolution of the CNRP in late 2017 and the reallocation of the party's seats that they won in the general election to other political parties in concurrence with the gradual persecution of members associated with the CNRP.[120][121][122][123][124]

Controversial legislation edit

In the same year, a piece of legislation was introduced, named the Political Parties Law, that human rights organisations saw was a means of further curtailing the power of the opposition in the run-up to the 2018 Cambodian general election. When it came to the formalization of this law through the required royal assent, Sihamoni was coincidentally overseas, thereby delegating the royal assent duties to the President of the Senate, who constitutionally serves as the acting head of state in the King's absence. This then prompted speculation as to whether there was an underlying reason behind the timing of his overseas trip.[125] During the legislative processes that was taking place to enact this law, a letter additionally emerged, of which Sihamoni had encouraged for all Cambodians to vote without intimidation ahead of the 2017 communal elections.[126][127] Nonetheless, officials of the ruling CPP denied such speculation and insist that the King's trip were non-politically motivated.[128]

Similarly, in February 2018, in relation to the Lèse-majesté Law, which too had concerns expressed about it by various observers, speculation was fuelled again, when the King did not directly sign this legislation into law, due to a planned foreign trip. Some analysts maintained that this did not merely occur by chance, though others cautioned that such an assumption cannot be verified without actual official confirmation.[129] [130] Regardless, commentators noted that it added to a perception that Sihamoni tends to be overseas to avoid having to give his signature to highly contentious legislations and that such trips are supposedly timed, which then trigger a delegation of responsibility to the next constitutional office holder.[131][132][133] It is theorized that the reason for this is that caught between the dilemmas of his position to concurrently not politically interfere and to also serve as a political guarantor, these absences are a way for the King to meet a middle ground through the "symbolic denial of royal legitimacy." However, the question still remains as to whether they constitute as “legitimate absences or absent legitimacy.”[134]

Interestingly, a few years prior in 2015, with respect to the then draft Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organisations (LANGO), which was equally controversial, the King did sign this into law. This is despite the unprecedented action taken by Cambodian civil society, specifically by 26 non-governmental organisations, to directly lobby Sihamoni to not give his royal assent. They had cited his constitutional imperative as a “guarantor” and the proposed law’s restrictive effects on their collective ability to function effectively as key reasons for why he should agree to their request. To that end, their failed attempt in petitioning the King demonstrated constraints associated with the above-mentioned theory.[135][136][137][138]

 
King Sihamoni is seen with parliamentarians outside the National Assembly on 5 September 2018

Elections 2018 and developments edit

In 2018, Sihamoni urged for Cambodians to vote in the national elections, notwithstanding calls made by exiled Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy to resist such a move and for the public to boycott the election.[139] After the year's general election and senate election, which saw the ruling CPP retaining power, winning virtually every seat in both houses of parliament, much to the consternation of members of the now-dissolved opposition, international observers and human rights groups, whom all voiced unease about the deteriorating state of political affairs in the country, not least, the lack of a viable opposition,[140][141][142] Sihamoni convened the opening of the national legislature. He had urged parliamentarians in both the National Assembly and Senate to protect the rights of all Cambodians and seek ways to bring about national unity and in bettering the lives of the overall populace, whilst highlighting the nation's long path towards peace and development. Several Western countries boycotted the opening, but the King noted in his speech that the opening of parliament was nonetheless constitutionally mandated.[143][144][145][146]

In recent years, again at the request of the government, he has approved political clemency requests for several former members of the dissolved CNRP to participate in politics again, like for example in 2020, with respect to former chief whip Son Chhay[147] and in 2021, with Pol Hom, who was a deputy party president. Both Chhay and Ham were amongst at least 32 former CNRP political figures, as of February 2022, that the King has politically rehabilitated.[148][149][150] Sihamoni, also had granted a royal pardon for Rainsy's deputy and later successor, Kem Sokha who had defamation charges against him stemming from an alleged adultery,[151] though his separate treason charge remained until he was convicted in early 2023.[152][153] Aside from the CNRP related cases aforementioned, other high-profile pardons include that of land rights activist Tep Vanny[154][155] and Australian filmmaker James Ricketson.[156]

Elections 2022 and ASEAN summit edit

In the 2022 communal elections, he reiterated his call for all eligible Cambodians to participate in the civic process by exercising their right to vote, and to "not worry about oppression, threats or intimidation from any person or party at all", something that he had previously urged a few years back in the 2017 communal elections. Several political parties expressed appreciation for the King's public appeal.[157][126][158] The communal elections result saw a victory for the ruling CPP, although the Candlelight Party, which has links with the dissolved CNRP, made some relatively surprising gains.[159]

At the ASEAN summit in November 2022, Sihamoni hosted regional leaders at the royal palace where he reinforced Cambodia's commitment to the bloc of nations and emphasized the continued importance of inter-state collaboration in addressing contemporary issues.[160] Later, at the interrelated 43rd General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, he further touched upon several topics. This included the centrality of peace in relation to socio-economic development, healthcare and educational investment, concern regarding the Myanmar conflict, the impact of increasing tensions between global powers, the threat of nuclear weapons, climate change, and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.[161][162]

General election 2023 edit

In February 2023, several months ahead of the 23 July general election, Sihamoni once again advocated, as he has done in prior years, for electoral participation amongst the public and for free elections to take place.[163] His call was backed by the National Election Committee whom urged the citizenry to heed the King's message,[164] despite insinuations of bias levelled against him by former opposition leader Rainsy. These claims were roundly rejected and condemned by government officials, including multiple cabinet ministers.[165]

The election unsurprisingly resulted in the CPP's victory in which they retained their ruling majority in the legislature, though there was controversy involving the disqualification of the opposition Candlelight Party by electoral authorities.[166][167][168] On 26 July, just a few days after the election, Prime Minister Hun Sen announced his intention to tender his resignation in favour of his son, Hun Manet. Sen had an audience with Sihamoni at the Royal Palace who reportedly consented "in a formality" to his decision and for the transitional arrangements that was scheduled within August 2023 for Manet's and the new government's appointment.[169][170][171][172][173] A royal decree was formally issued on 7 August, tasking Manet with forming a new government for the seventh mandate and requesting confidence from the National Assembly.[174][175] In late August, he received the endorsement and confidence of the National Assembly to serve as head of government. Subsequently, King Sihamoni officially appointed and sworn in Manet as the second Prime Minister of his reign along with the new cabinet and members of parliament as well as officiating the inaugural opening for the new legislative term.[176][177][178][179]

Philanthropy edit

 
King Sihamoni visiting Don Bosco Technical School in Sihanoukville in 2007.

King Sihamoni's reign has been focused on the wellbeing of the Khmer people. He has been described by some as a humble monarch because of his philanthropic endeavours and is well-known for carrying out humanitarian activities.[180][181][66][182]

This can be soon through various examples such as in 2006, where when the relocation of one of the campuses of the Royal University of Fine Arts caused an inconvenience to students and teachers, including posing safety concerns, he arranged for the donation of three minibuses to assist with transportation.[183][184][185] Another example was in the aftermath of the 2010 Phnom Penh stampede at Koh Pich that saw hundreds killed and injured, where he reached out to the victims and their families, donating money to every household who had lost a family member in the incident, as well as financially supporting those who were injured.[186][187][188] In 2016, he donated a record-breaking $6.5 million from the proceeds that was gained from the selling of the royal residence in Koh Kong to the Kantha Bopha Foundation, which oversees a group of nationally renowned children's hospitals.[189] Furthermore, in 2018, upon learning of the plight of provincial people affected by flooding, he gave essential goods to over 500 families.[190]

At times, he has even assisted his fellow citizens first-hand during adverse events, such as venturing out into flooded areas and handing out goods to victims directly[191] and was once reported to have requested for his official state car to stop so he can give a blanket to an elderly Cambodian who he saw on the roadside.[189] Additionally, Sihamoni is said to donate to the Cambodian Red Cross on a regular basis[192] and has authorized royal grants for infrastructure,[193] schools,[194] orphanages,[195] struggling communities,[196] religious institutions,[197] people affected by a disability,[198] rehabilitation centres,[199] mental health organizations,[200] victims of violence,[201] and sponsoring student's trips[202] among others. His philanthropy extends in the international context as well, like for instance, after Hurricane Katrina, the King made a personal good-will donation to victims of the storm.[203] He has also donated towards multiple relief efforts after the occurrence of natural disasters in China.[204][205]

Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, King Sihamoni, alongside Queen Mother Norodom Monineath has donated well over $1 million to the Royal Government of Cambodia's efforts to address the situation in Cambodia, inspiring a concerted public campaign across the country.[206][207][208] Moreover, the King has made contributions in the provision of essential supplies, including donations of food, water and face masks to Cambodians severely impacted by COVID-19.[209] In July 2022, he contributed $500,000 towards ongoing demining efforts in the nation, which is still plagued by problematic landmines leftover from decades of conflict.[210][211]

Cultural advocacy edit

Dancing requires neither pen nor paintbrush. Only one instrument is necessary, the human body. Every motion is imbued with dance. To move is to dance. Dance exacts the utmost dedication of body, mind, and soul. Only the truly committed can pursue this demanding path . . . To us Khmers, dance in its most elaborate form is a means to draw us closer to the gods. Thus, dance becomes prayer. It becomes an indispensable ritual for the world to move forward, transcending us to the divine and raising us to supernatural heights.

An excerpt from King Sihamoni's message to mark 2006 International Dance Day[212]

 
King Sihamoni arrives for the 2008 Royal Ploughing Ceremony in Phnom Penh with National Assembly President Heng Samrin and Royal Palace Minister Kong Sam Ol

Sihamoni also remains an ardent advocate for Cambodian arts and culture.[180][213] For instance, in 2006, when he was designated by the International Theatre Institute as its "Message Author" for International Dance Day, he extolled the symbolism and virtue of dance, with reference to the Royal Ballet of Cambodia.[214][215] In September 2012, he presided over the opening of L'ombrello di Beatocello, a documentary film by Georges Gachot showcasing the life's work of famed Swiss pediatrician Beat Richner and his contribution to Khmer society.[216][217] Likewise, in February 2017, he did the same at the global premiere of acclaimed Cambodian-based film First They Killed My Father, documenting the experiences of Loung Ung, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge and directed by Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie, whom he had earlier hosted, along with her family, at The Royal Residence in Siem Reap prior to the occasion.[218][219][220] In March 2023, as part of the 12th Cambodian International Film Festival, he presided over the premiere screening for The Perfect Motion, a film directed by Xavier de Lauzanne, which explored the progression of the kingdom's Royal Ballet and one of the interlinked works by Princess Norodom Buppha Devi.[221]

The King is a strong proponent of Buddhism and of the integral place it maintains in the cultural life of the Khmer nation,[222][223][224] and he usually officiates key festivals on the Buddhist calendar.[225] Moreover, he supports the work of the country's Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts whom reportedly engages regularly in consultations with him on advancing their overall strategic agenda.[226] Additionally, as King, he presides over the annual Bon Om Touk, a major festive cultural event on the yearly calendar with ancient roots dating back to the Khmer Empire,[213][227][228] in conjunction with other traditionally important national events like for example, Independence Day,[229] the Royal Ploughing Ceremony,[230] and Khmer New Year.[231][232][233] He also presided over the torch lighting ceremony in March 2023 at Angkor Wat marking the start of the torch relay for the 32nd Southeast Asian Games that was held in Phnom Penh that same year in May.[234]

Furthermore, Sihamoni has been commended for his dedication to archaeological preservation, conservation and research, with specificity to Cambodia.[235] In particular, as Honorary President of ICC-Angkor (International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of Historic Site of Angkor), King Sihamoni places special emphasis on the efforts to protect this national symbol and treasure, engaging frequently with the body's work through fulfilling representative functions or routine briefings given directly to him or via a delegated senior representative.[236][237][238][239] In 2011, he attended the completion ceremony pertaining to restoration works at the Baphuon historical temple in Angkor.[240] In late 2021, he championed Cambodia's bid for the proposed inclusion of Koh Ker, an ancient Khmer archaeological site, alongside Bokator, one of the kingdom's oldest martial arts on the UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage and World Heritage Site lists.[241][242] The eventual outcome resulted in both being successfully inscribed on to their respective listings.[243][244] In November 2023, the King inaugurated the formal ceremonies to commemorate the completion of restorative works for the western causeway into Angkor Wat and its reopening, which was closed for several years due to its deteriorating condition.[245][246]

 
King Norodom Sihamoni and Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo, Japan on 22 October 2019.

Overseas visits edit

Main article: List of state visits made by Norodom Sihamoni

In the international arena, his first official foreign trip as King was to China in 2004, where he met with President Hu Jintao, indicative of a strong friendship long established from the days of his father between China and the Cambodian royal family. Here, he routinely also undertakes yearly health-related visits, usually to Beijing and have formal courtesy calls with members of China's political leadership.[247][248][249] In 2015, he attended the United Nations COP21 summit, and gave an impassioned speech highlighting the impact of the climate crisis on Cambodia and urging international efforts on this front to be expedited.[250][251] He represented Cambodia at the 2019 Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations (CDAC) in Beijing aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and intercultural exchange.[252][253] Other notable trips include to Japan, where he was the first Cambodian sovereign since the monarchical restoration of the 1990s to visit,[254] his "second homeland" of the Czech Republic where he spent his childhood,[255] a landmark state visit to India,[256][257] and France, Cambodia's former colonial power.[258]

Public image edit

In contrast to his father, former King Norodom Sihanouk's "mercurial" and outspoken reign,[259][260][261][262] commentators note that Sihamoni has maintained a relatively "low-key" profile,[263] with his tenure being characterized by an award-winning article of The Phnom Penh Post as being "Reign of the quiet king."[264][265] Nonetheless, leading national leaders across the political spectrum recognize the King as a unifying force in Cambodian society. Prime Minister Hun Sen gave praise to Sihamoni for honourably carrying out his role as a "symbol of national unity, stability, happiness and prosperity", noting his humanitarianism,[192][266] as well as efforts in strengthening national prestige and fostering a "spirit of solidarity" amongst Cambodians.[267][268] Similarly, de facto Leader of the Opposition Sam Rainsy, shares this sentiment, welcoming his ability to bring people together in the national interest,[269] although amid internal political developments that is seen as indicative of democratic backsliding,[121][270] this view held by Rainsy has not always been consistent.[271][272][273] Thus, it is within this juxtaposition, from a power politics analytical standpoint, including on the limits and extent of constitutional monarchism and given the political polarization,[274][275][276][277] that there are often divergent perspectives concerning the King, between those who implore for his active politicism[68][69][278][279] and those who advocate he sustain his guarded apoliticism.[75][76][77][132]

 
Public display of King Sihamoni in Royal Palace Park commemorating an anniversary of his coronation

Scholar Milton Osborne, regarded as amongst the world's most distinguished authors specializing in Southeast Asia,[280][281] commends him as a "dedicated servant of his people" that is "cultured and disciplined",[26] but he questions the monarchical institution's long-term survivability.[282][283] The latter can be attributed in part due to competing power structures whereby there were periods of past historical tensions between some members of the royal family and the executive branch.[284][285][286][287][81] However, in recent years, Prime Minister Hun Sen has given steadfast assurances which therefore signals his government's intent to preserve the monarchy well into the future.[288][289][290] Prominent Cambodian history professor Sambo Manara credits Sihamoni as a "morale model" for all Khmer people whom exudes a calm and kind demeanor, underscored by a sincere warmth towards his subjects, notwithstanding some misconceived notions about the King's role from within some sectors of the population, in particular, the youth demographic.[226][291][292]

Reflecting after a royal audience with the King in 2013, then International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde expressed how she was profoundly touched by his "thoughtfulness and compassion" and how he "not only cares deeply about the welfare of his people, but is clearly passionately devoted to promoting the cultural and artistic heritage of his country."[293] On the occasion of his 68th birthday, ASEAN described King Sihamoni as a monarch who is "cherished and well-respected by the people of Cambodia" and as someone who exemplifies "dignified and humbled leadership", characterized by his frequent engagements with the populace through local visitations.[294][295] The King's birthday on 14 May in conjunction with his coronation day on 29 October are both annual public holidays in Cambodia[296] and in 2019, a special commemorative 15,000 riel was issued in his honour, celebrating the 15th anniversary of his tenure as sovereign.[297][298] Sihamoni is also featured on the 200, 500, 2,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 100,000 riels respectively[299] and his portrait, alongside the King-father and Queen-mother is prominent across many parts of the country, illustrative of their highly revered status.[300][301]

Lèse-majesté edit

In February 2018, the penal code was formally revised to incorporate lèse-majesté legislation, which makes it an offence to insult the king, pursuant to its promulgation by Cambodia's National Assembly and Senate, and the law came into effect the following month. Human rights groups had voiced concerns that the law may be potentially used to suppress political opponents of the government and considered it to be incompatible with respect to the freedom of speech, though the Ministry of Justice maintains that the law is necessary in protecting the monarchy from people who push the boundaries of said freedom.[302][303][304][305] After this law was enacted, there have been seldom arrests, charges[306][271][307][308][309] and convictions,[310][311] with the most notable case being that of Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy.[272] Prior to this legislative enactment, the constitution did acknowledge the "inviolability" of the monarch and this constitutional provision was tested in 2017, when the Ministry of Interior pursued charges against a few individuals who were indignant towards the King on social media.[312]

 
King Sihamoni visiting Banteay Srei temple in 2005

Personal life edit

The King is a bachelor and has no children. As Cambodia is not a hereditary monarchy, but rather an elective monarchy, his future successor will be determined by the Royal Council of the Throne, chosen from the lineage of one of the two royal houses of Cambodia, in accordance with the country's constitution.[313][314] His parents, King-Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen-Mother Norodom Monineath, were once questioned by journalists about Sihamoni's marital status and when he was planning to get married. In response, the Queen-Mother replied that her son "only feels Buddhist" and that "he confines himself to Buddhism." The King-Father added that because of this, his son's affection for women is akin to that of "as his sisters" and that "he dares not to make a deep relationship." This reflects Sihamoni's adherence to a monastic way of life which is underpinned by his austere piety and devotion to faith.[315][316][317] In some respects, Sihamoni is regarded somewhat as an enigmatic figure, with the available literature pointing to a "reflective, deliberate and cultured man" who apparently had reservations in becoming King, yet in spite of this, humbly assumed the solemn responsibility of his position, whilst holding "his cards close to his chest."[318][319][38]

Interests edit

Apart from his interest in the arts and culture, which is well-documented, it is reported that the king "is a man of simple tastes." Purportedly, in his free time he enjoys the peace of meditation, reading, exercising, listening to classical music such as by the likes of Beethoven and observance to traditional Buddhist rituals. In addition, it is reported that he enjoys comedy films, is the occasional fan of chocolates, and likes to keep up with current events and news, balancing his personal interests with that of his busy and rigid schedule as head of state.[318] His commitment to the duties of a monarch could be seen in 2011 where he famously declined to attend the royal wedding of then Kate Middleton and Prince William, which the British tabloids headlined as a "snub." This was quickly refuted by Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials who informed that a declination notification was indeed advised and that no snub occurred whatsoever.[320][321] Moreover, alongside having an interest in DVDs relating to ballet and opera in general, he is also skilled at playing the piano and is reputedly a keen reader of reviews covering the Czech theatre scene.[291][282]

Wealth edit

During speeches that Prime Minister Hun Sen delivered in November 2020 and August 2021, he made rare public references about the King’s wealth by mentioning that compared to other monarchies in the world, Cambodia’s monarchy is amongst the poorest. He further added that the King does not have his own private property. However, these factors, Sen noted were irrelevant, as more importantly, Sihamoni has a generous heart towards his people as evident by his philanthropic contributions.[322][323]

Languages edit

Besides his native Khmer, Sihamoni speaks Czech fluently, being the only ruling monarch in the world to do so.[324][325] The king is also fluent in French and is a conversational speaker of English and Russian. He has basic fluency in Mandarin as well.[326][264]

Filmography edit

Main article: Norodom Sihanouk filmography

Then-Prince Sihamoni during the 1960s and 1990s starred in a few films, mainly directed by his father, who was a prolific and accomplished film-maker. He has also been the subject of documentaries and directed a few films himself.

English title Other names Year Role Notes Ref.
The Curious History of Cambodia's Beloved Kings N/A 2021 Subject Documentary part of a series called 'Asia's Monarchies', made by 'Real Royalty' [327]
The Other Little Prince Jiný malý princ 1967 Subject A Czech Documentary film — Directed by Vladimir Sís [14]
My Village at Sunset Mon village au coucher du soleil 1992 Actor Film was the winner of the Prix Special at the Saint Petersburg Festival — Directed by Norodom Sihanouk [328]
The Little Prince Prachea Komar (ព្រះប្រជាកុមារ) 1967 Actor Film won the Golden Apsara Award at the 1968 Phnom Penh International Film Festival — Directed by Norodom Sihanouk [329]
Dream N/A 1992 Director A ballet film by Prince Sihamoni during his time at the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation or "Khemara Pictures" [330][331]
The Four Elements Four Seasons 1993 Director A ballet film by Prince Sihamoni during his time at the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation or "Khemara Pictures" [330][332]
Norodom Sihanouk, King and Film-maker N/A 1997 Guest appearance A French documentary film — Directed by Jean-Baptiste Martin and written by Frédéric Mitterrand [333][334]

Titles and styles edit

Styles of
King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia
 
Reference styleHis Majesty
Spoken styleYour Majesty
 
The Royal Standard of the King of Cambodia or sovereign's personal flag

Before he was crowned king, his princely royal title granted to him in February 1994 by King Sihanouk was Sdech Krom Khun (Khmer: ស្តេចក្រុមឃុន), or His Royal Highness Sdech Krom Khun Norodom Sihamoni, equating him to the rank of "Great Prince".[335][2]

In August 2004, King Sihanouk elevated the then Prince Sihamoni to the distinguished title of Samdech Preah Boromneath (Khmer: សម្ដេច​ព្រះ​បរមនាថ).[2]

As King, his full regnal title is Preahkaruna Preah Bath Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni Samanphoum Cheatsasna Rakhatkhateya Khemrarothreas Puthinthrea Thoreamohaksat Khemreachnea Samophorpheas Kampuch Ekreachroatboranaksanteh Sopheakmongkulea Sereyvibolar Khemarasreypireas Preah Chao Krong Kampuchea Thipadey (in romanized Khmer); Khmer: ព្រះករុណាព្រះបាទសម្តេចព្រះបរមនាថ នរោត្តម សីហមុនី សមានភូមិជាតិសាសនា រក្ខតខត្តិយា ខេមរារដ្ឋរាស្ត្រ ពុទ្ធិន្ទ្រាធរាមមហាក្សត្រ ខេមរាជនា សមូហោភាស កម្ពុជឯករាជរដ្ឋបូរណសន្តិ សុភមង្គលា សិរីវិបុលា ខេមរាស្រីពិរាស្ត្រ ព្រះចៅក្រុងកម្ពុជាធិបតី, roughly translating to "His Merciful Excellent Majesty Protector, King Norodom Sihamoni, who unites the nation, religion, realms, and people of Khmer state, the great king who is supported by Buddha and Indra, the protector of independence, unification, and peace, the Great King of the Kingdom of Cambodia."[336][337][338]

The King's shortened official title is His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of the Kingdom of Cambodia (Khmer: ព្រះករុណា ព្រះបាទសម្តេច ព្រះបរមនាថ នរោត្តម សីហមុនី ព្រះមហាក្សត្រ នៃព្រះរាជាណាចក្រកម្ពុជា។).[339][340]

In June 2015, he was bestowed the honorary religious title Preah SriLoka Dhammika Raja (Khmer: ព្រះស្រីលោកធម្មិករាជ), or "Virtuous King for the Propagation of Buddhism in the World", which was recommended for him at the Sixth Buddhist Summit in the year prior in December 2014.[341][342][343]

During an overseas trip in September 2015, he was conferred the academic title of ‘Honorific Professor’ by the Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Nanchang, China.[344]

On 24 June 2023, the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) awarded the King the honorary title of ‘Royal Patron’ in an event held at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh.[345]

In the military context, one of his concurrent titular styles is ‘Supreme Commander of the Royal Khmer Armed Forces’, which is in line with the country's constitution.[346]

Patronages edit

As King, Sihamoni has served as the patron of many causes and organizations as well as a range of NGOs and NPOs. This includes, but is not limited to the below list:

Heritage edit

Cultural edit

 
US Ambassador Heidt, King Sihamoni, Queen-Mother Monineath, Mrs. Heidt, and Culture Minister Sackona at the US Air Force Band String Quartet special concert in 2016

Community edit

Sporting edit

Environmental edit

Honours edit

National honours edit

  Cambodia
  Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Cambodia[428]
  Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Monisaraphon[428]

Foreign honours edit

  France
  Grand Cross of the Order of the Legion of Honour (2010)[429]
  Grand Officer of the Order of the Legion of Honour (2004)[428]
  Japan
  Collar and Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum (11 May 2010)[430]

Ecumenical orders edit

Awards edit

Honorary degrees edit

Honourific eponyms edit

Ancestry edit

References edit

  1. ^ "People and Society ::Cambodia". 6 January 2022.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h "Biography of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia". Official Website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 1 January 2013. Retrieved 5 September 2021.
  3. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. p. 134. ISBN 9789924907855.
  4. ^ "The strange case of the King of Cambodia". Financial Review. 5 November 2004. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  5. ^ "Naruttama, Nara-uttama, Narottama: 13 definitions". Wisdom Library. 7 August 2021. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  6. ^ "Norodom". BabyNamesCube.com. 2023. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  7. ^ "The First Lady of the Kingdom"; The Royal House of Cambodia by Julio A. Jeldres, 2003 OCLC 54003889
  8. ^ King's biography 27 April 2008 at the Wayback Machine
  9. ^ "Obituary: Norodom Sihanouk, former king of Cambodia". BBC News. 15 October 2012. Retrieved 23 April 2022.
  10. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. pp. 198–201. ISBN 9789924907855.
  11. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. p. 134. ISBN 9789924907855.
  12. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. pp. 136–137. ISBN 9789924907855.
  13. ^ "King to visit alma mater in the Czech Republic". The Phnom Penh Post. 16 March 2010. Retrieved 31 March 2022.
  14. ^ a b "Jiný malý princ" [The Other Little Prince]. Česko-Slovenská filmová databáze.
  15. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. pp. 139–141. ISBN 9789924907855.
  16. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. pp. 139–141. ISBN 9789924907855.
  17. ^ "CAMBODIA BEFORE 1975". Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. 2023. Retrieved 7 October 2023.
  18. ^ "40 Years After the Fall of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia Still Grapples With Pol Pot's Brutal Legacy". TIME. 7 January 2019. Retrieved 7 October 2023.
  19. ^ "Profile: King Sihamoni". BBC News. 14 October 2004. Retrieved 5 September 2021.
  20. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. p. 141. ISBN 9789924907855.
  21. ^ Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (1st ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. p. 80. ISBN 9789924907855.
  22. ^ a b c "Norodom Sihamoni - king of Cambodia". Encyclopædia Britannica. 10 May 2020. Retrieved 5 September 2021.
  23. ^ "Cambodia profile - Timeline". BBC News. 10 May 2020. Retrieved 5 September 2021.
  24. ^ a b c Jeldres, Julio A. (2017). The Royal House of Cambodia (2nd ed.). Cambodia: The Sleuk Rith Institute. p. 142. ISBN 9789924907855.
  25. ^ "New god king ends Cambodia's pain". The (Sunday) Times. 17 October 2004. Retrieved 31 March 2022.
  26. ^ a b "Reign of the quiet king". The Phnom Penh Post. 29 October 2014. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  27. ^ The Weekend Australian, 16–17 October 2004
  28. ^ Findlay, Trevor (1995). SIPRI Research Report No. 9 - Cambodia: The Legacy and Lessons of UNTAC (PDF) (Report). Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
  29. ^ "Cambodia king confirms abdication". BBC News. 10 October 2004. Retrieved 6 September 2021.
  30. ^ "Cambodia's succession riddle". BBC News. 8 October 2004. Retrieved 6 September 2021.
  31. ^ "Cambodia chooses new monarch". BBC News. 14 October 2004. Retrieved 6 September 2021.
  32. ^ "Profile: King Sihamoni". BBC News. 14 October 2004. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  33. ^ "Shuffling 'Heirs' to Cambodia Throne". New York Times. 30 November 2002. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  34. ^ "Royal trumps on the table, aces up the sleeve". Phnom Penh Post. 22 March 1996. Retrieved 12 September 2023.
  35. ^ "Prince Opts For Politics, Not Throne". Cambodia Daily. 14 November 2001. Retrieved 12 September 2023.
  36. ^ "Throne Council Selects Sihamoni to be the Next King". Cambodia Daily. 15 October 2004. Retrieved 12 September 2023.
  37. ^ "The Prince who didn't want to be King". Khmer Times. 27 October 2017. Retrieved 2 April 2022.
  38. ^ a b "Son of Cambodian king 'ready to accept crown'". Irish Examiner. 11 October 2004. Retrieved 2 April 2022.
  39. ^ a b "King Sihamoni arrives". Phnom Penh Post. 22 October 2004. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  40. ^ WRAP Arrival of Cambodia's new King Norodom Sihamoni. Archived from the original on 24 April 2022. Retrieved 24 April 2022 – via YouTube. {{cite AV media}}: Unknown parameter |agency= ignored (help)
  41. ^ Sheridan, Michael (17 October 2004). "New god king ends Cambodia's pain". The (Sunday) Times. Retrieved 31 March 2022.
  42. ^ Sheridan, Michael (17 October 2004). "New god king ends Cambodia's pain". The (Sunday) Times. Retrieved 31 March 2022.
  43. ^ "In Pictures: King Sihamoni's coronation". BBC News. 29 October 2004. Retrieved 11 June 2012.
  44. ^ Ceremonies of the coronation of HM King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia, 28-30 October 2004. Monash University Research Repository. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 6 September 2021 – via YouTube.
  45. ^ a b "When Sihamoni became King". The Phnom Penh Post. 14 May 2009. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  46. ^ "Cambodia's muted coronation". BBC News. 29 October 2004. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  47. ^ "Cambodia's New King Gives First Address". NBC News. 30 October 2004. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  48. ^ "Sihamoni crowned new King". The Phnom Penh Post. 5 November 2004. Retrieved 15 July 2022.
  49. ^ "Cambodia's king wins high marks after six months on throne". Taipei Times. 17 May 2005. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  50. ^ Willemyns, Alex (29 October 2014). "10 Years into Sihamoni's Reign, A Changed Palace". The Cambodia Daily. Retrieved 29 October 2014.
  51. ^ Cambodia's low-key King Sihamoni celebrates 10 years on throne. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 6 September 2021 – via YouTube. {{cite AV media}}: Unknown parameter |agency= ignored (help)
  52. ^ a b c More royals could face political exit The Phnom Penh Post, 12 December 2008
  53. ^ "Return of Ranariddh?". The Phnom Penh Post. 25 February 2014. Retrieved 11 September 2021.
  54. ^ "Cambodian Princess Norodom Arunrasmy appointed as advisor to gov't". Xinhua News Agency. 21 November 2020. Retrieved 11 September 2021.
  55. ^ "Board of Directors". Cambodian Institute for Cooperation and Peace. 2021. Retrieved 11 September 2021.
  56. ^ "Strong is the Sangkum; the stirrings of discontent". Phnom Penh Post. 27 February 1998. Retrieved 15 July 2022.
  57. ^ "Winner, Loser agree to coalition in Cambodia". The Washington Post. 19 June 1993. Retrieved 15 July 2022.
  58. ^ A. Norén-Nilsson (2022). The Demise of Cambodian Royalism and the Legacy of Sihanouk. Sojourn: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia, 31(1), 1–36, 11-26, http://www.jstor.org/stable/2477978
  59. ^ "A New Royalist Party Would Have Little Hope, Analysts Say". VOA News. 27 February 2014. Retrieved 15 July 2022.
  60. ^ "An end to an era as Hun Sen passes baton to son Manet". Phnom Penh Post. 26 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  61. ^ "Cambodian Prince Ranariddh's body arrives home from France". The Star. 5 December 2021. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  62. ^ "End of an era: PM Hun Sen stepping down after helming nation for over 38 years". Khmer Times. 27 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  63. ^ "Hun Sen made Privy Council President". Khmer Times. 23 August 2023. Retrieved 26 August 2023.
  64. ^ "Two veteran civil servants join the Supreme Privy Council". Khmer Times. 6 September 2023. Retrieved 6 September 2023.
  65. ^ "A King to unite the country gives the monarchy life after Sihanouk". The Phnom Penh Post. 14 May 2009. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  66. ^ a b "Sihamoni Marks Reign With Praise for Stability". The Cambodia Daily. 30 October 2014. Retrieved 6 September 2021.
  67. ^ "Freedom in the World 2016 - Cambodia". Freedom House via UNHCR. 14 July 2016. Retrieved 28 March 2023.
  68. ^ a b Cambodian Opposition Member Urges King Sihamoni to Intervene in Political Deadlock, Radio Free Asia, 14 May 2020, retrieved 7 September 2021
  69. ^ a b 'Be a leader': Sochua calls on king to intervene to ensure her return, Southeast Asia Globe, 5 January 2021, retrieved 17 April 2022
  70. ^ "The Cambodian monarchy must step back from politics". East Asia Forum. 26 October 2013. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
  71. ^ "CONSTITUTION OF THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA (ANNOTATED)" (PDF). International Labour Organization. 4 March 1999. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
  72. ^ "New Cambodian king 'nervous'". BBC News. 15 October 2004. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
  73. ^ "Meet Norodom Sihamoni, the Far-Eastern King who spoke Czech". Kafkadesk. 20 September 2021. Retrieved 19 April 2022.
  74. ^ "Cambodia's Sihanouk May Play Last Hand". NBC News. 11 October 2004. Retrieved 19 March 2022.
  75. ^ a b "A King to unite the country gives the monarchy life after Sihanouk". The Phnom Penh Post. 14 May 2009. Retrieved 19 March 2022.
  76. ^ a b "King Sihamoni Seeks Neutrality in a Deeply Divided Nation". The Cambodia Daily. 20 October 2013. Retrieved 19 March 2022.
  77. ^ a b "The Cambodian monarchy must step back from politics". East Asia Forum. 26 October 2013. Retrieved 17 April 2022.
  78. ^ "Former King Norodom Sihanouk Clarifies his Duties in Border Committee". VOA News. 11 May 2005. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  79. ^ "Former King Sihanouk Corrects Border History". VOA News. 16 November 2005. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  80. ^ "Politicized protection for Cambodian royalty". Asia Times. 3 February 2018. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  81. ^ a b "Citizens Worry Over PM's Threat to Monarchy". The Cambodia Daily. 19 October 2005. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  82. ^ "King Signs Off On Border Pact With Vietnam Border Treaty". The Cambodia Daily. 1 December 2005. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  83. ^ "PM Thanks King for Signing Border Agreement". The Cambodia Daily. 2 December 2005. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  84. ^ "Cambodia: Opposition Politicians Arrested, Forced to Flee". Human Rights Watch. 6 February 2005. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  85. ^ "Cambodian politicians pardoned". Aljazeera News. 6 February 2006. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  86. ^ "Cambodian King pardons opposition leader". ABC News. 6 February 2006. Retrieved 2 August 2022.
  87. ^ "Opposition leader flees Cambodia". The Globe and Mail. 4 February 2005. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  88. ^ "Cambodia: 1997 Grenade Attack on Opposition Still Unpunished". Human Rights Watch. 30 March 2009. Retrieved 2 August 2022.
  89. ^ "Channy a 'prisoner of conscience'". Phnom Penh Post. 12 August 2005. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  90. ^ "Cambodian lawmaker gets 7 years in prison". The New York Times. 10 August 2005. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  91. ^ "Cambodia: Pardons of Opposition Leader and Parliamentarian". US Department of State. 6 February 2006. Retrieved 2 August 2022.
  92. ^ "AMNESTY INTERNATIONALPRESS RELEASE -Cambodia: Release of prisoner of conscience Cheam Channy" (PDF). Amnesty International. 6 February 2006. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  93. ^ "Senate of the Philippines 19th Congress – PRESS RELEASE: Drilon hails granting of pardon to Cambodian opposition leader". Senate of the Philippines. 9 February 2006. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  94. ^ "Media Groups Call for Editor's Release". VOA News Cambodia. 27 August 2009. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  95. ^ "Cambodian journalist released from prison in amnesty". Committee to Protect Journalists. 27 April 2010. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  96. ^ "No help for Hang Chakra from council". Phnom Penh Post. 4 September 2009. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  97. ^ "Thai jailed in Cambodia over Thaksin flight leak". Reuters. 9 December 2009. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  98. ^ "Cambodian king pardons Thai jailed for spying". Reuters. 12 December 2009. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  99. ^ "Thaksin back in Cambodia as Thai "spy" to be freed". Reuters. 14 December 2009. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  100. ^ "Thailand's ex-leader jumps bail". Los Angeles Times. 12 August 2008. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  101. ^ "King makes appeal for resolution". Phnom Penh Post. 8 August 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  102. ^ "Cambodian opposition leader pardoned by king". Al Jazeera. 12 July 2013. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  103. ^ "Cambodia's royal pardon for opposition leader a step towards reconciliation – UN expert". United Nations. 15 July 2013. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  104. ^ "Cambodia: Rainsy Sentence Shatters Pretense of Democracy". Human Rights Watch. 24 September 2010. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  105. ^ "Cambodia election: Hun Sen's ruling party claims victory". BBC News. 28 July 2013. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  106. ^ "Cambodia election: Opposition party rejects results". BBC News. 29 July 2013. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  107. ^ "Cambodian election protesters march through Phnom Penh". The Guardian. 15 September 2013. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  108. ^ "In Pictures: Cambodians take to the streets". Aljazeera. 15 September 2013. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  109. ^ "Cambodia's King Invites Hun Sen, Sam Rainsy to Talks". Radio Free Asia. 12 September 2013. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  110. ^ "Cambodia PM and opposition leader fail to resolve election standoff". The Guardian. 14 September 2013. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  111. ^ "Cambodian king urges opposition to join parliament". Bangkok Post. 18 September 2013. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  112. ^ "Cambodia talks after election protest clashes". BBC News. 16 September 2013. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  113. ^ "King makes appeal for resolution". Phnom Penh Post. 8 August 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  114. ^ "Cambodian political rivals reach deal to end deadlock". DW. 22 July 2014. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  115. ^ "Cambodia opposition leader Sam Rainsy endorsed by parliament, ends year-long stalemate". Reuters. 28 July 2014. Retrieved 1 April 2014.
  116. ^ "King Swears In Opposition Lawmakers". The Cambodia Daily. 6 August 2014. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  117. ^ "King Convenes Opening of Contested National Assembly". The Cambodia Daily. 23 September 2013. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  118. ^ "'Unity' key in King's message". The Phnom Penh Post. 30 October 2014. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  119. ^ "It's good to talk: Cambodia's culture of dialogue". Southeast Asia Globe. 1 September 2015. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  120. ^ "Cambodia Issues Arrest Warrant for Rainsy". VOA News. 13 November 2015. Retrieved 8 August 2022.
  121. ^ a b "Cambodia's main opposition party dissolved by Supreme Court". Reuters. 16 November 2017. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  122. ^ "With CNRP gone, minor parties take their National Assembly seats". Phnom Penh Post. 28 November 2017. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  123. ^ "Cambodia's Sam Rainsy found guilty of defamation, ordered to pay $1 million". Reuters. 29 December 2017. Retrieved 8 August 2022.
  124. ^ "Cambodia: 150 opposition politicians and supporters face jail in mass trials". Amnesty International. 14 January 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  125. ^ "Controversial Party Law signed, though King declines to ink changes". Phnom Penh Post. 31 July 2017. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  126. ^ a b "King Wades Into Politics With Call for Fearless Vote". Cambodia Daily. 21 March 2017. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  127. ^ "King Sihamoni Urges Cambodians to Vote in Upcoming Elections". VOA News Cambodia. 22 March 2017. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  128. ^ "King Flies Out Of Country, Dodging Party Law Signing". Cambodia Daily. 24 July 2017. Retrieved 27 March 2023.
  129. ^ "Cambodian King Leaves Signing of Controversial Constitutional Amendments to Ruling Party". Radio Free Asia. 22 February 2018. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  130. ^ B. Lawrence (2022). The Symbolic Safeguard: Royal Absence in Cambodia’s Constitutional Monarchy. Asian Journal of Law and Society, 9(3), 382-398. doi:10.1017/als.2022.31
  131. ^ "Monarchy stuck in middle of Cambodia's conflict". Asia Times. 25 May 2018. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  132. ^ a b "Does Cambodia have a 'puppet king'?". Asia Times. 11 January 2021. Retrieved 9 August 2022.
  133. ^ "King Departs for China Amid Coronavirus Pandemic and the Potential State of Emergency". VOA News Cambodia. 31 March 2020. Retrieved 13 August 2022.
  134. ^ B. Lawrence (2022). The Symbolic Safeguard: Royal Absence in Cambodia’s Constitutional Monarchy. Asian Journal of Law and Society, 9(3), 382-398. doi:10.1017/als.2022.31
  135. ^ B. Lawrence (2022). The Symbolic Safeguard: Royal Absence in Cambodia’s Constitutional Monarchy. Asian Journal of Law and Society, 9(3), 382-398. doi:10.1017/als.2022.31
  136. ^ "Human Rights NGOs Urge the Rejection of LANGO". ADHOC Cambodia. 31 July 2015. Retrieved 21 September 2023.
  137. ^ "Civil society organisations urge Cambodia's king not to sign NGO law". IFEX. 5 August 2015. Retrieved 21 September 2023.
  138. ^ "Cambodia: King should reject Law on Associations and Non-Governmental Organizations". Amnesty International. 23 July 2015. Retrieved 21 September 2023.
  139. ^ "King urges citizens to vote as Hun Sen says Sihamoni's message is a 'slap' to Sam Rainsy's face". Phnom Penh Post. 7 June 2018. Retrieved 13 April 2023.
  140. ^ "Cambodia election: Ruling party claims landslide in vote with no main opposition". BBC News. 30 July 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  141. ^ "Cambodia: Hun Sen re-elected in landslide victory after brutal crackdown". The Guardian. 29 July 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  142. ^ "Cambodia's Ruling Party Just Held Senate Elections. It Won Every Seat". TIME. 26 February 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  143. ^ "Cambodia king urges Senate dominated by ruling party to protect rights". Reuters. 23 April 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  144. ^ "Cambodia's parliament holds first session since July vote". Reuters. 5 September 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  145. ^ "Cambodia launches one-party legislature". Agencia EFE. 5 September 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  146. ^ "'Unity' urged by King as West 'boycotts' opening". Phnom Penh Post. 6 September 2018. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  147. ^ "Senior Cambodian opposition figure allowed back in politics". ABC News (US). 4 September 2020. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  148. ^ "King grants political rehab for Ham and Chansak". Phnom Penh Post. 20 May 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  149. ^ "Pol Ham and Sokha's lawyer granted political rehabilitation". Khmer Times. 20 May 2021. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  150. ^ "Three more ex-CNRP officials granted political rehabilitation". Phnom Penh Post. 22 February 2022. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  151. ^ "Cambodia's King Grants Royal Pardon to Kem Sokha". Radio Free Asia. 12 February 2016. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  152. ^ "Cambodia resumes treason trial of opposition leader Kem Sokha". The Guardian. 19 January 2022. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  153. ^ "Cambodian opposition figure Kem Sokha sentenced to 27 years of house arrest". Reuters. 3 March 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  154. ^ "Cambodia: Land rights activist Tep Vanny released from prison following royal pardon". Amnesty International. 20 August 2018. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  155. ^ "Cambodian king grants pardons to land rights activists". Channel News Asia. 21 August 2018. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  156. ^ "Australian filmmaker James Ricketson granted royal pardon in Cambodia". Sydney Morning Herald. 21 September 2018. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  157. ^ "Vote without fear, says King". Khmer Times. 11 May 2022. Retrieved 3 August 2022.
  158. ^ "King encourages subjects to vote". Phnom Penh Post. 10 May 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2023.
  159. ^ "Cambodia's ruling party wins local commune elections but new opposition gains". Reuters. 6 June 2022. Retrieved 17 March 2023.
  160. ^ "PM pledges further support to Cambodia's ASEAN Community building efforts". VietnamPlus - Vietnam News Agency. 10 November 2022. Retrieved 21 December 2022.
  161. ^ "King, PM seek parliamentary co-op for ASEAN unity, peace". Phnom Penh Post. 21 November 2022. Retrieved 21 December 2022.
  162. ^ "Myanmar crisis thwarts ASEAN dreams, says King Sihamoni". Khmer Times. 22 November 2022. Retrieved 21 December 2022.
  163. ^ "King asks subjects to vote in general election". Phnom Penh Post. 18 February 2023. Retrieved 22 February 2023.
  164. ^ "King appeals to citizens to cast ballots in National Election". Khmer Times. 20 February 2023. Retrieved 22 February 2023.
  165. ^ "Rainsy comes under heavy flak over latest insult". Khmer Times. 20 February 2023. Retrieved 22 February 2023.
  166. ^ "Cambodia's ruling party says it won a landslide victory in elections". Reuters. 24 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  167. ^ "Cambodia's Elections: No Surprises, but an Uncertain Leadership Future". Council on Foreign Relations. 25 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  168. ^ "Cambodia Disqualifies Main Opposition Party Ahead of Election". The New York Times. 16 May 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  169. ^ "An end to an era as Hun Sen passes baton to son Manet". Phnom Penh Post. 26 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  170. ^ "Asia's longest-ruling leader to hand power to West Point-trained son". NBC News. 26 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  171. ^ "King Agrees to Appoint Hun Manet as New Prime Minister in August". Cambojanews. 26 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  172. ^ "End of an era: PM Hun Sen stepping down after helming nation for over 38 years". Khmer Times. 27 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  173. ^ "Hun Manet will become new Prime Minister on August 22". Khmer Times. 26 July 2023. Retrieved 28 July 2023.
  174. ^ "King issues a Royal Decree appointing His Excellency Dr. Hun Manet as Prime Minister of Cambodia". Khmer Times. 7 August 2023. Retrieved 7 August 2023.
  175. ^ "Cambodia: PM's son Hun Manet appointed next ruler in royal formality". BBC News. 7 August 2023. Retrieved 7 August 2023.
  176. ^ "Cambodia ushers in new era as National Assembly inaugurated". Phnom Penh Post. 21 August 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2023.
  177. ^ "Cambodia: son of long time ruler Hun Sen becomes PM in historic transfer of power". The Guardian. 22 August 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2023.
  178. ^ "New Faces in Cambodia's Parliament as King Welcomes Incoming Lawmakers". VOA News. 21 August 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2023.
  179. ^ "Hun Manet officially Cambodia's Prime Minister". Phnom Penh Post. 22 August 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2023.
  180. ^ a b "Norodom Sihamoni - king of Cambodia". Encyclopædia Britannica. 10 May 2020. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  181. ^ "The Story of Cambodia's Ballet-Dancing King". The Culture Trip Ltd. 17 January 2018. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  182. ^ "The King visits people in Kratie". Khmer Times. 28 June 2023. Retrieved 16 July 2023.
  183. ^ "En Route to Long-Distance Learning". Cambodia Daily. 10 May 2008. Retrieved 1 August 2023.
  184. ^ Diamond, Catherine (2012). Communities of Imagination: Contemporary Southeast Asian Theatres. Honolulu, Hawaii, United States: University of Hawaii Press. p. 122.
  185. ^ "His Majesty the King visits the Royal University of Fine Arts". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 2 March 2006. Retrieved 1 August 2023.
  186. ^ "Royal support to Koh Pich Victims Families". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 22 November 2010. Retrieved 22 September 2021.
  187. ^ "Royal support for Koh Pich victims". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 22 November 2010. Retrieved 22 September 2021.
  188. ^ "Royal support to Koh Pich victims and their families (end)". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 22 November 2010. Retrieved 22 September 2021.
  189. ^ a b c "The unspoken truth of King Sihamoni's generous spirit". Khmer Times. 14 May 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  190. ^ "King gives to victims of flood". The Phnom Penh Post. 25 July 2018. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  191. ^ His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni visits flood victims. Feel Great. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 6 September 2021 – via YouTube.
  192. ^ a b c "Citizens reflect on King Sihamoni's legacy on Coronation Day". Khmer Times. 30 October 2019. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  193. ^ "Royal Grant to the population of Oral District, Kampong speu province". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 2 February 2010. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  194. ^ "School buildings granted to different provinces". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 10 September 2006. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  195. ^ "Food distribution toKean Laing orphanage". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 13 May 2008. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  196. ^ "Royal donation to the poor of Vat Champa". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 13 May 2008. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  197. ^ "Offering to Preah Tvea Pagoda". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 7 January 2006. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  198. ^ "Royal donation to Seiha Samien". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 20 April 2007. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  199. ^ "Food distribution to Chaom Chao rehabilitation center". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 13 May 2008. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  200. ^ "TPO Cambodia Newsletter - 8 April 2015, Issue 6" (PDF). Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Cambodia. 8 April 2015. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  201. ^ "King Sihamoni and Queen Mother Donate to Sunday's Victims". The Cambodia Daily. 18 September 2013. Retrieved 16 July 2023.
  202. ^ "Royal contribution to the 'Initiative For Change' NGO". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 6 July 2006. Retrieved 17 September 2021.
  203. ^ "US Embassy Issues a Statement Thanking King Sihamoni for Donation for Katrina Victims". VOA News Cambodia. 13 September 2005. Retrieved 27 March 2022.
  204. ^ "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian's Regular Press Conference on June 27, 2022". The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in New Zealand（Cook Islands, Niue). 27 June 2022. Retrieved 21 September 2023.
  205. ^ "Assistant Foreign Minister Wu Jianghao Meets with Cambodian Ambassador to China Khek Caimealy Sysoda". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China. 31 August 2021. Retrieved 21 September 2023.
  206. ^ "Their Majesties the King and Queen-Mother donate $1 Million for COVID-19 vaccine purchase". Khmer Times. 11 December 2020. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  207. ^ "King, Queen Mother donate $2M for Covid-19 fight". The Phnom Penh Post. 24 June 2020. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  208. ^ "A King who is 'poor' but with a golden heart". Khmer Times. 2 August 2021. Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  209. ^ "Covid donations flow in from Monarchy, business community". The Phnom Penh Post. 29 April 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  210. ^ a b "Royals chip in to aid demining efforts". TheStar. 27 July 2022. Retrieved 31 July 2022.
  211. ^ "Clearing Cambodia's leftover land mines: A dangerous job". DW. 30 August 2018. Retrieved 31 July 2022.
  212. ^ "Sa Majesté Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, Roi du Cambodge 2006" (PDF). International Theatre Institute. 2006. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  213. ^ a b "King Norodom Sihamoni and his love for Arts". Khmer Times. 14 May 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  214. ^ a b "International Dance Day - His Majesty King Norodom SIHAMONI of Cambodia". International Theatre Institute. 2016. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  215. ^ "Sa Majesté Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, Roi du Cambodge 2006" (PDF). International Theatre Institute. 2006. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  216. ^ "L'ombrello di Beatocello screened at festivities honouring Beat Richner's humanitarian work in Cambodia". SWISS FILMS. 25 September 2012. Retrieved 11 July 2022.
  217. ^ "Beatocello's Umbrella". IMDB. 2012. Retrieved 11 July 2022.
  218. ^ "Cambodian royalty to open Angelina Jolie's film on Khmer Rouge survivor". USA Today. 14 February 2017. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  219. ^ Cambodia The Power of Memory BBC Documentary 2017. teamajolie/ BBC. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 14 September 2021 – via YouTube.
  220. ^ "Angelina Jolie And Kids Make First Public Appearance Since Her Split From Brad Pitt". Huffington Post. 19 February 2017. Retrieved 13 March 2023.
  221. ^ "Ballet doco premiered for King". Phnom Penh Post. 27 March 2023. Retrieved 8 April 2023.
  222. ^ "King promotes cool shade of Buddhism". Khmer Times. 17 December 2020. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  223. ^ "King Sihamoni and PM lauded on International Buddhist Day". The Phnom Penh Post. 11 April 2022. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  224. ^ "Cambodian Culture - Religion". Cultural Atlas. 15 April 2022. Retrieved 15 April 2022.
  225. ^ "Reign of the quiet king". The Phnom Penh Post. 29 October 2014. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  226. ^ a b "King Norodom Sihamoni, a 'morale model' to the people". Khmer Times. 14 May 2019. Retrieved 20 March 2022.
  227. ^ "Cambodia's Water Festival". Aljazeera. 22 November 2010. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  228. ^ "Bon Om Touk, Cambodian water festival". Cambodia Angkor Air. 2022. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  229. ^ "Cambodia celebrates 66th Independence Day". Phnom Penh Post. 9 November 2019. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  230. ^ "Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2017 in Cambodia". Embassy of the Czech Republic in Phnom Penh. 12 May 2017. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  231. ^ "Celebration of Khmer New Year (1st day)". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 14 April 2021. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  232. ^ "Celebration of Khmer New Year (2nd day)". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 14 April 2021. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  233. ^ "Celebration of Khmer New Year (3rd day)". Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni. 14 April 2021. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  234. ^ "SEA Games regional relay kicks off as King lights torch". Asia News Network. 23 March 2023. Retrieved 27 March 2023.
  235. ^ "French society lauds Sihamoni for supporting art, archaeology". The Phnom Penh Post. 15 March 2010. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  236. ^ "ICC-Angkor: 20 years of international cooperation for conservation and sustainable development". UNESCO. 2013. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  237. ^ "King Sihamoni returns after ICC-Angkor event in Paris". Khmer Times. 27 May 2019. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  238. ^ a b "His Majesty NORODOM Sihamoni, the King of Cambodia held audience with the ICC-Angkor's delegation". UNESCO. 2 March 2020. Retrieved 5 September 2021.
  239. ^ "ICC-Angkor: 25 years of model international cooperation". UNESCO. 2021. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  240. ^ "Celebration of the restoration of the Baphuon Temple". Ecole française d'Extrême-Orient. 3 July 2011. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  241. ^ "King Sihamoni requests new addition to World Heritage list". Khmer Times. 15 November 2021. Retrieved 21 November 2021.
  242. ^ "King Sihamoni requests 'Bokator' and 'Koh Ker' on the World Heritage List". Khmer Times. 16 November 2021. Retrieved 21 November 2021.
  243. ^ "Cambodia's Bokator now officially in World Heritage List". Phnom Penh Post. 30 November 2022. Retrieved 17 September 2023.
  244. ^ "Koh Ker Listed As A World Heritage Site". Ministry of Information of Cambodia. 17 September 2023. Retrieved 17 September 2023.
  245. ^ "Angkor grand causeway reopens to public". Phnom Penh Post. 4 November 2023. Retrieved 5 November 2023.
  246. ^ "Restoration of the Western Causeway of Angkor Wat Completed; Completion Ceremony to be Held on November 4". Sophia University. 16 October 2023. Retrieved 5 November 2023.
  247. ^ "Hu meets Cambodia's new king in Beijing". China Daily. 18 October 2004. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  248. ^ "Why Cambodia's royals need close China ties that are separate from Hun Sen's government". South China Morning Post. 29 November 2020. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  249. ^ "King Sihamoni returns home after routine medical checkup". Khmer Times. 13 April 2022. Retrieved 4 August 2022.
  250. ^ "King Sihamoni calls for climate action at COP21". The Phnom Penh Post. 2 December 2015. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  251. ^ "Statement By His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni: Leader Event of the United Nations Climate Change Conference - 30 November 2015" (PDF). Ministry of Environment of Cambodia. 30 November 2015. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  252. ^ "Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations, Beijing". UNESCO. 15 May 2019. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  253. ^ "Foreign leaders speak during opening of Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations in Beijing". China Today. 16 May 2019. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  254. ^ "Emperor meets Cambodia king". The Japan Times. 18 May 2010. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  255. ^ "King Sihamoni of Cambodia receives warm welcome in Prague". Radio Prague International. 20 September 2006. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  256. ^ "Cambodian King's Maiden Visit To India To Mark 70 Years Of Diplomatic Relations". NDTV. 28 May 2023. Retrieved 14 July 2023.
  257. ^ "Cambodian King Sihamoni to visit India after 60 years". The Daily Guardian. 26 May 2023. Retrieved 14 July 2023.
  258. ^ "French President Jacques Chirac (R) greets visiting Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni upon his arrival at the Elysee Palace, in Paris ON November 20, 2006. The king is in France on a five-day official visit". Alamy. 20 November 2006.
  259. ^ "CO13030 - Norodom Sihanouk: His Mercurial Art of Preserving a Small State". S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. 9 September 2014. Retrieved 22 March 2022.
  260. ^ "Norodom Sihanouk dies at 89; former king led Cambodia through decades of strife". The Washington Post. 15 October 2012. Retrieved 22 March 2022.
  261. ^ "Profile: Norodom Sihanouk". BBC News. 14 October 2004. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  262. ^ "Delicate dance for Cambodia king". The Christian Science Monitor. 1 November 2004. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  263. ^ Cambodia's low-key King Sihamoni celebrates 10 years on throne. Archived from the original on 29 October 2014. Retrieved 27 March 2022 – via YouTube. {{cite AV media}}: Unknown parameter |agency= ignored (help)
  264. ^ a b McPherson, Poppy (29 October 2014). "Reign of the quiet king". The Phnom Penh Post. Retrieved 22 March 2022.
  265. ^ "Post earns four awards at annual SOPA event". Phnom Penh Post. 16 June 2015. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  266. ^ "PM praises King for strong humanitarian support". Khmer Times. 27 November 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2023.
  267. ^ "King Sihamoni's 14-year reign celebrated". Khmer Times. 29 October 2018. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  268. ^ "Hun Sen: No peace, no hope". The Phnom Penh Post. 12 February 2022. Retrieved 19 March 2022.
  269. ^ "'Unity' key in King's message". The Phnom Penh Post. 30 October 2014. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  270. ^ "Cambodia: Stop backsliding and expand freedom – UN expert". United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. 6 October 2021. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  271. ^ a b "Cambodian opposition figure faces royal insult charge". Yahoo News. 20 June 2018. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  272. ^ a b "Rainsy faces up to five years in prison for insulting King". The Phnom Penh Post. 28 December 2020. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  273. ^ "Sam Rainsy in hot water again for lese majeste". Khmer Times. 24 June 2021. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  274. ^ "10 Years Into Sihamoni's Reign, a Changed Palace". Cambodia Daily. 29 October 2014. Retrieved 25 April 2022.
  275. ^ "Cambodia's publicity shy king forced into center of political fracas". Radio Free Asia. 6 November 2022. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  276. ^ A. Kent (2022). Covenantal Pluralism: Resonances and Dissonances in Cambodia, The Review of Faith & International Affairs, 20:1, 11-26, DOI: 10.1080/15570274.2022.2031054
  277. ^ "Never Again? The Legacy of Cambodia's Khmer Rouge Trial". United States Institute of Peace. 3 October 2022. Retrieved 13 April 2023.
  278. ^ "Cambodia's King Under Criticism for Not Intervening in Election Dispute". Radio Free Asia. 10 September 2013. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  279. ^ "Cambodia's 'quiet king' must find his political voice". Asia Times. 15 January 2019. Retrieved 9 August 2022.
  280. ^ "Southeast Asia -An introductory history". Allen and Unwin Book Publishers. 2002. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  281. ^ "Milton Osborne". LOWY INSTITUTE. 2022. Retrieved 7 May 2022.
  282. ^ a b "Cambodia's king seen as a 'prisoner' in his palace". The Seattle Times. 29 May 2011. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  283. ^ "Cambodian monarchy fading into history". Bangkok Post. 2 February 2013. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  284. ^ "The monarchy's future public role: To reign but not to rule?" (PDF). An International Review of Peace Initiatives – Accord, Issue 5; Safeguarding Peace: Cambodia’s Constitutional Challenge. November 1998. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  285. ^ "Cambodian king speaks of suicide over nation's woes". AP News. 13 October 1997. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  286. ^ "Cambodia Says It Thwarted Coup by Prince, Ex-Official". Los Angeles Times. 4 July 1994. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  287. ^ "Hun Sen: the "worms" that must die". Phnom Penh Post. 1 December 1995. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  288. ^ "Harm King 'over my dead body'". Phnom Penh Post. 25 October 2018. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  289. ^ "'We must protect the throne,' says PM Hun Sen". Khmer Times. 29 December 2021. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  290. ^ "King bestows Samdech title on Hun Neng posthumously". Phnom Penh Post. 8 May 2022. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  291. ^ a b "As His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni celebrates his 68th birthday, Khmer Times spoke with Pannsastra University of Cambodia's history professor, Sombo Manara to reflect on the King's influence in Cambodia, the Land of Khmers". Khmer Times. 14 May 2021. Retrieved 20 March 2022.
  292. ^ "Cambodia's king wins high marks after six months on throne". Taipei Times. 17 May 2005. Retrieved 5 August 2023.
  293. ^ "Cambodia: Moving Beyond The Frontier". International Monetary Fund. 4 December 2013. Retrieved 4 September 2021.
  294. ^ @ASEAN (14 May 2021). "We wish the happiest birthday to King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia! Cherished and well-respected by the people of Cambodia, King Sihamoni shows his dignified and humble leadership by reaching out through a series of visits to the rural and local villages" (Tweet) – via Twitter.[non-primary source needed]
  295. ^ HM King Norodom Sihamoni surprise people for his visited. Meng Lyhour. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2021 – via YouTube.
  296. ^ "Public Holidays 2021". National Bank of Cambodia. 2021. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  297. ^ "New note to mark King's coronation". The Phnom Penh Post. 7 October 2019. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  298. ^ "The 15,000 Riel Commemorative Banknote Issued 29 October 2019" (PDF). Landqart. 2019. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  299. ^ "Banknotes in Circulation". National Bank of Cambodia. 2021. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  300. ^ J. Wolfarth (2019). "Lineage and Legitimacy: Exploring Royal-Familial Visual Configurations in Cambodia". Hampshire College/Michigan Publishing. Retrieved 18 September 2021.
  301. ^ "Freedom in the World 2016 - Cambodia". Freedom House via UNHCR. 14 July 2016. Retrieved 28 March 2023.
  302. ^ "Cambodia Passes Lèse-Majesté Law | Voice of America - English". 16 February 2018.
  303. ^ "Lèse majesté law now in effect". The Phnom Penh Post. 5 March 2018. Retrieved 20 March 2022.
  304. ^ "Cambodia parliament adopts lese-majeste law, prompting rights concerns". Reuters. 14 February 2018. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  305. ^ "Cambodia: end efforts to introduce lèse-majesté law". International Commission of Jurists. 2 February 2018. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  306. ^ "Arrest for lèse majesté violation". The Phnom Penh Post. 14 May 2018. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  307. ^ "Trial begins for duo accused of lese majeste". Khmer Times. 17 February 2021. Retrieved 7 July 2022.
  308. ^ "Cambodia charges environment activists with insulting the king". BBC News. 22 June 2021. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  309. ^ "Two Cambodians held on rare royal insults charge after Facebook posts". Reuters. 23 March 2023. Retrieved 28 March 2023.
  310. ^ "Cambodia jails 70-year-old in first conviction for royal insult". Reuters. 5 October 2018. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  311. ^ "Cambodian man jailed for insulting king in Facebook posts". The Guardian. 9 January 2019. Retrieved 26 March 2022.
  312. ^ "Cambodia hunting suspects over doctored porn image of king". BBC News. 2 January 2017. Retrieved 1 April 2022.
  313. ^ "About Cambodia - The King of Cambodia". Tourism of Cambodia. 10 May 2020. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
  314. ^ "Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia 1993, as amended to 2018". UN Women. 1 January 2018. Retrieved 7 September 2021.
  315. ^ "King Sihamoni arrives". The Phnom Penh Post. 22 October 2004. Retrieved 26 April 2022.
  316. ^ "City Cheers The Arrival Of New King". Cambodia Daily. 21 October 2004. Retrieved 3 April 2023.
  317. ^ Hutt, David. "The Real Danger of Cambodia's 'Gay King' Episode". thediplomat.com. Retrieved 24 June 2020.
  318. ^ a b "Reign of the quiet king". The Phnom Penh Post. 29 October 2014. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  319. ^ "The Story of Cambodia's Ballet-Dancing King". The Culture Trip Ltd. 17 January 2018. Retrieved 24 April 2022.
  320. ^ "Kate 'Won't Obey Wills' In Wedding Vows". Sky News. 22 April 2011. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  321. ^ "King's wedding 'snub' denied". The Phnom Penh Post. 25 April 2011. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  322. ^ "A King who is 'poor' but with a golden heart". Khmer Times. 2 August 2021. Retrieved 22 September 2023.
  323. ^ "PM praises King for strong humanitarian support". Khmer Times. 27 November 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2023.
  324. ^ "King Sihamoni of Cambodia receives warm welcome in Prague". Radio Prague. 20 September 2006.
  325. ^ "The Only Monarch in the World Who Speaks Czech Fluently | Tres Bohemes". Everything Czech | by Tres Bohemes. 2 May 2017. Retrieved 24 June 2020.
  326. ^ "The Artiste, The Ambassador, The Prince". The Phnom Penh Post. 21 April 1995. Retrieved 6 September 2021.
  327. ^ The Curious History Of Cambodia's Beloved Kings - Asia's Monarchies. Real Royalty. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 18 September 2021 – via YouTube.
  328. ^ "My Village at Sunset". IMDb. 1994. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  329. ^ "Prachea Komar". IMDb. 1967. Retrieved 8 September 2021.
  330. ^ a b
January 01, 1970
norodom, sihamoni, this, cambodian, name, surname, norodom, accordance, with, cambodian, custom, this, person, should, referred, given, name, sihamoni, khmer, នរ, តម, ហម, nɔˈroːɗɑm, səjˈhamoniː, born, 1953, king, cambodia, became, king, october, 2004, week, af. In this Cambodian name the surname is Norodom In accordance with Cambodian custom this person should be referred to by the given name Sihamoni Norodom Sihamoni Khmer នរ ត តម ស ហម ន nɔˈroːɗɑm sejˈhamoniː born 14 May 1953 is King of Cambodia He became King on 14 October 2004 a week after the abdication of his father Norodom Sihanouk 1 Norodom Sihamoni នរ ត តម ស ហម ន Sihamoni in 2019King of CambodiaReign14 October 2004 presentCoronation29 October 2004PredecessorNorodom SihanoukPrime ministersHun Sen Hun ManetBorn 1953 05 14 14 May 1953 age 70 Phnom Penh Cambodia French IndochinaHouseNorodomFatherNorodom SihanoukMotherNorodom MonineathReligionTheravada BuddhismSignatureAlma materAcademy of Performing Arts in PragueWebsiteOfficial website He is the eldest son of King Sihanouk and former Queen consort Norodom Monineath and is the fourth monarch from the royal House of Norodom Before his selection by a nine member throne council as the next monarch Sihamoni served as Cambodia s ambassador to the United Nations and UNESCO He was educated in Czechoslovakia and was known for his work as a cultural ambassador in Europe and as a classical ballet instructor when he was still a prince During his reign Sihamoni has continued his cultural advocacy alongside supporting various philanthropic causes while balancing his role as a constitutional monarch amid Cambodia s political developments Contents 1 Early life 1 1 Birth name and family 1 2 Education and life abroad 1 3 Return to Cambodia 1 4 Career 2 Reign 2 1 Accession and coronation 2 2 Privy advisory council 2 3 Political role 2 3 1 Bilateral border dispute 2 3 2 Political pardons 2 3 3 General election of 2013 and aftermath 2 3 4 Controversial legislation 2 3 5 Elections 2018 and developments 2 3 6 Elections 2022 and ASEAN summit 2 3 7 General election 2023 2 4 Philanthropy 2 5 Cultural advocacy 2 6 Overseas visits 2 7 Public image 2 8 Lese majeste 3 Personal life 3 1 Interests 3 2 Wealth 3 3 Languages 3 4 Filmography 4 Titles and styles 5 Patronages 5 1 Heritage 5 2 Cultural 5 3 Community 5 4 Sporting 5 5 Environmental 6 Honours 6 1 National honours 6 2 Foreign honours 6 3 Ecumenical orders 6 4 Awards 6 5 Honorary degrees 6 6 Honourific eponyms 7 Ancestry 8 References 9 Further reading 10 External linksEarly life edit nbsp Prince Sihamoni with his half sister Princess Norodom Buppha Devi receiving a bouquet of flowers from US Senator Mike Mansfield in 1969 Birth name and family edit Sihamoni was born on Thursday 14 May 1953 in Phnom Penh Cambodia when it was still a colonial protectorate within French Indochina The prince s birth at the time was viewed as a positive omen as Cambodia gained independence from France later in that year 2 3 His given name Sihamoni comprises two morphemes from his parents given names Sihanouk and Monineath As for Norodom this means Narottam in Pali and Prakrit which translates to the best amongst men The name has a similar meaning in Khmer as well 4 5 6 At the time of his birth and that of his younger brother his mother Princess Monique who is of Khmer French and Corsican descent had been one of King Norodom Sihanouk s consorts after being a constant companion since the day they met in 1951 when she won first prize in a national beauty contest 7 The queen was granted the title of Neak Moneang and the name of Monineath at the time of her marriage to King Norodom Sihanouk in 1952 Furthermore Queen Monineath is a step granddaughter of the late Prince Norodom Duong Chakr of Cambodia and the daughter of Pomme Peang and of her second husband Jean Francois Izzi a Corsican banker 8 Sihamoni has 14 half brothers and half sisters by his father his only full sibling a younger brother Samdech Norodom Narindrapong was born in 1954 and died in 2003 9 10 Education and life abroad edit The then Prince Sihamoni first began his education in 1959 where he attended Norodom School followed by Lycee Descartes School in Phnom Penh developing a keen interest in the arts early on in his life 2 11 nbsp Prince Sihamoni when he was young as shown on the 200 riel In 1962 the young Sihamoni was sent to Prague in Czechoslovakia by his father to study abroad There he completed his early education at Majakovskeho Primary School and later at Ostrovni Elementary School When he was in his preadolescence years he starred in a production of Pyotr Tchaikovsky s The Nutcracker at the prestigious Prague National Theatre where he pursued private ballet and piano classes and was once even selected for a television rendition of Brundibar a well known children s opera He then concluded his secondary education at the National Prague Conservatory and was regarded as an able student getting high marks Here he further developed his interest in the performing arts undertaking courses in this field and excelling at the top of his class Furthermore he attained great fluency in Czech 2 12 13 A movie directed by Vladimir Sis was shot about the prince in Prague in 1967 under the name The Other Little Prince Jiny maly princ 14 The prince would occasionally visit his homeland for holidays of which when he did he involved himself in Cambodia s arts and cultural scene including starring in a film made by his father and performing ballet During the 1970 coup d etat by Lon Nol that saw Sihanouk removed from power and a Khmer Republic being proclaimed exacerbating the Cambodian Civil War Sihamoni remained in Czechoslovakia 15 Between 1971 and 1975 Sihamoni completed his higher education in classical dance and music at the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague culminating with the attainment of a Master s degree for which he wrote a thesis titled The Conception and Administration of Artistic Schools in Cambodia After graduation in 1975 he left Prague and began to study filmmaking in North Korea at the National Academy of Cinematography in Pyongyang 2 16 Return to Cambodia edit The fall of Phnom Penh on 17 April 1975 led to the demise of the Khmer Republic and the creation of Democratic Kampuchea by the Khmer Rouge who oversaw a brutal campaign of genocide 17 18 In the following year of 1976 Sihamoni was forced to come back to Cambodia after having been deceived by the Khmer Rouge with a forged telegram undersigned by King Sihanouk ordering his return 19 20 Immediately the ruling Khmer Rouge regime headed by Pol Pot turned against the monarchy and put the royal family including Sihamoni his brother Prince Norodom Narindrapong his mother Queen Norodom Monineath his father King Norodom Sihanouk under house arrest in the Royal Palace The consequent Cambodian genocide saw several members of the wider royal family killed and Sihamoni and his immediate family lived in daily fear for their lives effectively shut off from the outside world Throughout their period of house arrest the prince recounted how they were prohibited from making contact with anyone and was barred from having any staff The Khmer Rouge soldiers would give them food consisting of rice and fish that was limited to two times a week and they had to for the most part cultivate their own food from the palace gardens With the Cambodian Vietnamese War which resulted in the ousting of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 and the establishment of the Vietnamese installed People s Republic of Kampuchea the family aided by the Chinese government was airlifted to China Sihamoni subsequently worked as a secretary for his father who spearheaded a resistance movement in response to the Vietnamese occupation 21 22 23 24 25 Career edit In 1981 Sihamoni moved to France to teach ballet as a professor of classical dance and artistic pedagogy a position which he held for almost two decades at various conservatoires including the Marius Petipa Conservatory the Gabriel Faure Conservatory and the W A Mozart Conservatory He was also later president of the Khmer Dance Association there He lived in France for nearly 20 years and continued his pursuit in the arts establishing Ballet Deva an original dance troupe in which he served as its General Manager and Artistic Director alongside heading the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation In his line of work he placed emphasis on giving opportunities for men to feature more prominently in traditional Khmer dance where they are often not assigned leading roles when he created Duel a unique ballet style inspired by the Russian ballet 22 2 24 During this overseas period for a time he also entered into the monkhood under the auspices of Samdech Bour Kry who would later become a supreme patriarch of Cambodia 26 In the early 1990s Cambodia s Supreme National Council which was recognized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 668 as part of the transitional process in the country pursuant to the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements unanimously selected Prince Sihamoni in 1992 as its permanent representative to the United Nations which he served until 1993 That same year of 1993 saw the restoration of the monarchy with Sihanouk returning as King and the prince being appointed as Cambodia s permanent representative to UNESCO in Paris a role he held right until he became King in 2004 In this role Sihamoni became known for his hard work and devotion to Cambodian culture as seen by his advocacy for the international recognition of Khmer classical ballet and shadow theatre as an intangible cultural heritage He had previously refused an appointment as Cambodia s ambassador to France In October 2003 he was additionally appointed as a High Privy Counselor to then King Norodom Sihanouk 27 22 24 2 28 Reign editAccession and coronation edit On 14 October 2004 Sihamoni was chosen as monarch by the Royal Council of the Throne a special nine member constitutional body that is tasked with electing the King of Cambodia This selection process was quickly put into place after the surprise abdication of King Norodom Sihanouk the week before At that time there was no provisions in the nation s constitution that covered the subject of abdication Prince Sihamoni s selection was endorsed by Prime Minister Hun Sen and the then National Assembly President Prince Norodom Ranariddh Sihamoni s half brother both members of the throne council King Sihanouk backed the decision as well 29 30 31 A few years before his selection there was speculation about potential succession after he was seen deputizing on Sihanouk s behalf at official functions despite him being rarely seen in public 32 33 although much of the initial speculation focused on Ranariddh who was the preferred choice of his parents but who ultimately expressed disinterest in acceding to the throne 34 35 36 Sihamoni was said to have been reluctant to take on the stately role but nevertheless accepted it in the national interest 37 38 returning on 20 October to Phnom Penh accompanied by his parents King Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath to an estimated 100 000 people who lined their motorcade route from Phnom Penh International Airport to the Royal Palace to welcome the soon to be King 39 40 nbsp A public portrait of King Sihamoni in Phnom Penh of which he is pictured sitting on the throne on his Coronation Day Then Prince Sihamoni s accession to the throne was reflected upon by journalist Michael Sheridan of The Sunday Times whom on 17 October 2004 remarked The extraordinary story of the aesthete who flies home this week to become king of Cambodia and of the men who nearly had him killed can be summed up for most people in the capital Phnom Penh by the tale of two buildings on the banks of the Mekong River One is the glorious golden roofed royal palace gaily illuminated by hundreds of festive lights in celebration of the announcement that the bachelor prince Norodom Sihamoni is to succeed his father King Norodom Sihanouk Within its walls father and son endured captivity at the hands of the Khmer Rouge not knowing from day to day whether the revolutionaries might order their murder The other building is the concrete 1950s Chaktamuk theatre nearby where the surviving members of the Khmer Rouge regime most now frail old men are expected to face trial for genocide before an internationally funded tribunal Two momentous dramas in Cambodia s modern history the chequered rule of King Sihanouk and the Khmer Rouge s blood drenched attempt to create a Marxist utopia are therefore drawing to a close at the same time 41 Sheridan s reflection encapsulated the symbolism of the moment in Cambodia s monarchical transition as these two indelible chapters etched into its national story the undisputed significance of King Sihanouk s influential rule and the undeniably traumatic genocidal rule of the Khmer Rouge are juxtaposed with one another as the country entered a new historical era under the reign of King Sihamoni 42 He was then inaugurated and formally appointed as King on 29 October 2004 in a coronation ceremony centered at the Royal Palace in the capital 43 44 The coronation was noted for its relative simplicity which was specifically requested by King Father Sihanouk King Sihamoni himself did not want the ceremonies to be too lavish because he did not wish for the impoverished country to spend too much money on the event opting for a more modest affair In a break with precedent Sihamoni did not assume his seat on the higher elevated throne nor did he wear the gold and diamond monarchial crown that came with the royal regalia 39 45 46 nbsp King Sihamoni on the 100 000 riel receiving blessings from his parents former King Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Norodom Monineath during his coronation ceremonyIn his first public speech as monarch he acknowledged words of wisdom imparted to him by his father and pledged to be a king of the people by saying My august father at the very moment of my election as King of Cambodia by the highly respected Throne Council said to me it is by being in contact with the people and the realities of the country that one learns how to become more and more capable of serving defending and developing Cambodia and the Cambodian nation My respected and beloved compatriots I will always be your faithful and devoted servant I will never live apart from the beloved people The Royal House will remain a transparent house and for me there will never be an ivory tower King Norodom Sihamoni 47 45 48 In the first six months after his coronation Sihamoni ensured to pay regular visits to his fellow Cambodians especially those in the provinces and countryside including occasionally making surprise visits He was praised by observers for being close to the people and having a gentle touch though they also noted he still needed time to independently carve out his own role as monarch amid the influential role of his father former King Sihanouk notwithstanding his abdication 49 On 29 October 2014 there were celebrations to mark the 10th anniversary of his coronation Well wishers representing different cross sections of the kingdom s population congregated outside the royal palace to commemorate the occasion and pay their respects to the King 50 51 Privy advisory council edit nbsp King Sihamoni meeting with South Korean president Lee Myung bak in the Throne Hall of the Royal Palace in 2009 nbsp Rwandan Ambassador to Cambodia Yasmin D Amri Sued presents her letter of credence to King Sihamoni in 2022 On 12 December 2008 it was reported that Sihamoni had selected twenty six members of the Cambodian royal family to his advisory court among them his half brother and former Prime Minister Prince Norodom Ranariddh as chief advisor and president of the council Other choices included Prince Sisowath Sirirath Princess Norodom Marie estranged wife of Prince Ranariddh and Prince Sisowath Thomico 52 53 The King s half sister and Cambodia s former Ambassador to Malaysia Princess Norodom Arunrasmy 54 and uncle Prince Norodom Sirivudh were also duly appointed members 55 The appointments was seen at the time by observers as signaling the cessation of royal family members participating in politics as theoretically the constitution did not allow individuals to concurrently serve in both the royal court and government 52 Indeed royalism has long been a staple in Cambodian political history with periods where royalist parties had once governed the country such as the Sangkum of then Prince Sihanouk in the 1950s and 1960s and the FUNCINPEC party of Prince Ranariddh in the 1990s 56 57 Responding to the commentary some ruling party officials and members of the royal family insisted that there was no agenda behind the move and that it should not be construed as the prohibition or end of royal political involvement 52 despite the influence and electoral success of royalist political parties having waned significantly over time 58 59 In late July 2023 upon the resignation of Prime Minister Hun Sen it was announced that the King will appoint him to take up the position as head of the council succeeding Ranariddh who had died in 2021 60 61 This coincided with the announcement that National Assembly President Heng Samrin Interior Minister Sar Kheng Defence Minister Tea Banh and National Assembly Senate Relations and Inspection Minister Men Sam An the latter three of whom concurrently served as Deputy Prime Ministers will too be appointed as privy counsellors once they have relinquished their respective positions The appointments came into effect later in the following month 62 63 On 4 September 2023 the King made additional appointments to the council that included former Foreign Minister Hor Namhong and former Supreme Court President Dith Munty 64 Political role edit nbsp US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with King Sihamoni in 2010 The King has limited political powers and rarely gets involved in the Cambodian political space in conformance with his position as a constitutional monarch and is considered to be above politics 65 66 67 Some Cambodian opposition figures however have called for him to be more vocal and directly involved in the political issues of the country like his predecessor King father Norodom Sihanouk was contending that the King has the constitutional prerogative to do so in terms of powers accorded to him 68 69 Conversely others have cautioned against this notion citing that the constitution strictly warrants for a predominantly ceremonial monarch that shall reign but shall not govern noting that resorting to political intervention is neither in the long term interests of the monarchy nor nation 70 71 and Sihamoni since the outset of his reign has pledged and adhered to a largely apolitical stance 72 73 Indeed during the monarchical selection process King Sihanouk touted then Prince Sihamoni s neutral and impartial approach to politics as a key trait for why he is suited to the role 74 This is reinforced by analysis from observers that Sihamoni has represented both continuity and change withdrawing royalty from active politics but advancing it as a symbol of national reconciliation thereby restoring the monarchy s traditional role as an umbrella under which Cambodians could unite 75 In turn observers argue that this limits any politicization of the monarchy as an institution whilst maintaining its neutrality as well as legitimacy especially amid the context of the sometimes controversial and turbulent nature of Cambodian politics 76 77 Bilateral border dispute edit Nevertheless there has been several occasions where Sihamoni s reluctance to be involved in the political arena have been tested In 2005 in the first major political challenge of his reign it was reported that he was hesitant to authorize the royal assent for the government s plans to give effect to a controversial border treaty with neighbouring Vietnam which was compounded by his predecessor King father Sihanouk s objection This apparently caused tension with the government after Prime Minister Hun Sen expressed frustration about the royal assent delay to the point that abolition of the monarchy was suggested 78 79 80 81 Sihamoni eventually signed the treaty after having been assured by government and legislative officials as well as other members of the royal family that no land would be ceded to Vietnam as a result of the promulgation of the bilateral treaty 82 83 Political pardons edit nbsp King Sihamoni is seen with then President of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte in 2016 In 2006 at the government s petition he granted a pardon to leading opposition politicians namely Sam Rainsy and Cheam Channy who originally had their parliamentary immunity annulled and were facing charges viewed as politically motivated 84 85 In regards to Rainsy he was embroiled in a legal dispute with Prime Minister Hun Sen over a 1997 grenade attack on a political rally which injured Rainsy as he was giving a speech He had accused Prime Minister Sen of being involved an accusation that the Prime Minister denies though Rainsy later expressed regret in making the claim 86 87 88 As for Channy he was designated as a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty International where he was convicted for fraud and in attempting to conspire to overthrow the government 89 90 At the time the move by Sihamoni was found to be encouraging by international observers as it indicated a conciliatory gesture that points to a reduction of political tensions and restoration of multi party democracy in the country 91 92 93 In 2009 Sihamoni upon considering the appeals made to him for the review of the conviction verdict against opposition affiliated journalist and editor Hang Chakra who was jailed on charges of criminal disinformation sought the government s support for a prospective royal pardon The appeals were made to him in his capacity as a member of the Supreme Council of the Magistracy This request was reportedly rejected by the government for reasons not stated but it was eventually later accepted of which Sihamoni went on to grant a full pardon to Chakra in 2010 94 95 96 During late 2009 amid then strained diplomatic relations between Cambodia and Thailand Sihamoni pardoned a Thai national Siwarak Chutipongse on humanitarian grounds after a request by multiple parties including Siwarak s mother the Pheu Thai Party and former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra Siwarak had been controversially charged and jailed by a Cambodian court for espionage due to him leaking sensitive flight related details of Thaksin to Thai officials Around that time Thaksin was living in exile abroad despite being a wanted fugitive for corruption in his homeland which he challenged He also served as an advisor to the Cambodian government which publicly backed Thaksin and resisted the extradition attempt from the Thai government 97 98 99 100 General election of 2013 and aftermath edit For the interest of the nation and our people and for peace and national stability I would like to appeal to the two political parties that people have voted for to continue to find a peaceful solution to the dispute and the remaining issues I also would like to appeal to all people to stay calm for the dignity of the nation and continue to conduct business peacefully King Sihamoni s public statement in August 2013 amid the political crisis arising from that year s election 101 In the lead up to the 2013 Cambodian general election Sihamoni at the request of the government granted a royal pardon which enabled then Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy who had been in self imposed exile since 2009 to partake in the election which was welcomed by the United Nations 102 103 Prior to the pardoning Rainsy had found himself in legal jeopardy once again due to another politically motivated charge brought against him arising from an incident in 2009 104 When the election outcome became disputed between the ruling Cambodian People s Party CPP and opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party CNRP the subsequent aftermath resulted in the 2013 2014 Cambodian protests 105 106 107 108 Consequently in what is regarded as the first time he had intervened directly to try to resolve a political dispute the King attempted to play a mediating role and urged for national reconciliation by exercising his moral authority to facilitate talks between the two party leaders Rainsy and Prime Minister Hun Sen He implored for a de escalation of tensions including an end to the violence between the protestors and authorities and for the parties to find common ground towards a resolution regarding their issues 109 110 111 112 113 In late July 2014 the CPP and CNRP eventually reached a mutually agreed deal to resolve the political impasse 114 115 nbsp French Prime Minister Francois Fillon with King Sihamoni in 2011 at the Baphuon temple After this in August 2014 Sihamoni would formally swear in Rainsy and the CNRP members of parliaments who had up until then refused to assume their seats in the National Assembly because of the dispute though he had earlier officiated Prime Minister Sen s and CPP lawmakers swearing in ceremony in September of the previous year due to a constitutional necessity 116 117 He later encouraged the two sides to continue to work together for the sake of stability development and national unity 118 and for a time there was a culture of dialogue between the rival political parties 119 This period of dialogue was relatively short lived as tensions soon manifested again that culminated in the dissolution of the CNRP in late 2017 and the reallocation of the party s seats that they won in the general election to other political parties in concurrence with the gradual persecution of members associated with the CNRP 120 121 122 123 124 Controversial legislation edit In the same year a piece of legislation was introduced named the Political Parties Law that human rights organisations saw was a means of further curtailing the power of the opposition in the run up to the 2018 Cambodian general election When it came to the formalization of this law through the required royal assent Sihamoni was coincidentally overseas thereby delegating the royal assent duties to the President of the Senate who constitutionally serves as the acting head of state in the King s absence This then prompted speculation as to whether there was an underlying reason behind the timing of his overseas trip 125 During the legislative processes that was taking place to enact this law a letter additionally emerged of which Sihamoni had encouraged for all Cambodians to vote without intimidation ahead of the 2017 communal elections 126 127 Nonetheless officials of the ruling CPP denied such speculation and insist that the King s trip were non politically motivated 128 Similarly in February 2018 in relation to the Lese majeste Law which too had concerns expressed about it by various observers speculation was fuelled again when the King did not directly sign this legislation into law due to a planned foreign trip Some analysts maintained that this did not merely occur by chance though others cautioned that such an assumption cannot be verified without actual official confirmation 129 130 Regardless commentators noted that it added to a perception that Sihamoni tends to be overseas to avoid having to give his signature to highly contentious legislations and that such trips are supposedly timed which then trigger a delegation of responsibility to the next constitutional office holder 131 132 133 It is theorized that the reason for this is that caught between the dilemmas of his position to concurrently not politically interfere and to also serve as a political guarantor these absences are a way for the King to meet a middle ground through the symbolic denial of royal legitimacy However the question still remains as to whether they constitute as legitimate absences or absent legitimacy 134 Interestingly a few years prior in 2015 with respect to the then draft Law on Associations and Non Governmental Organisations LANGO which was equally controversial the King did sign this into law This is despite the unprecedented action taken by Cambodian civil society specifically by 26 non governmental organisations to directly lobby Sihamoni to not give his royal assent They had cited his constitutional imperative as a guarantor and the proposed law s restrictive effects on their collective ability to function effectively as key reasons for why he should agree to their request To that end their failed attempt in petitioning the King demonstrated constraints associated with the above mentioned theory 135 136 137 138 nbsp King Sihamoni is seen with parliamentarians outside the National Assembly on 5 September 2018 Elections 2018 and developments edit In 2018 Sihamoni urged for Cambodians to vote in the national elections notwithstanding calls made by exiled Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy to resist such a move and for the public to boycott the election 139 After the year s general election and senate election which saw the ruling CPP retaining power winning virtually every seat in both houses of parliament much to the consternation of members of the now dissolved opposition international observers and human rights groups whom all voiced unease about the deteriorating state of political affairs in the country not least the lack of a viable opposition 140 141 142 Sihamoni convened the opening of the national legislature He had urged parliamentarians in both the National Assembly and Senate to protect the rights of all Cambodians and seek ways to bring about national unity and in bettering the lives of the overall populace whilst highlighting the nation s long path towards peace and development Several Western countries boycotted the opening but the King noted in his speech that the opening of parliament was nonetheless constitutionally mandated 143 144 145 146 In recent years again at the request of the government he has approved political clemency requests for several former members of the dissolved CNRP to participate in politics again like for example in 2020 with respect to former chief whip Son Chhay 147 and in 2021 with Pol Hom who was a deputy party president Both Chhay and Ham were amongst at least 32 former CNRP political figures as of February 2022 that the King has politically rehabilitated 148 149 150 Sihamoni also had granted a royal pardon for Rainsy s deputy and later successor Kem Sokha who had defamation charges against him stemming from an alleged adultery 151 though his separate treason charge remained until he was convicted in early 2023 152 153 Aside from the CNRP related cases aforementioned other high profile pardons include that of land rights activist Tep Vanny 154 155 and Australian filmmaker James Ricketson 156 Elections 2022 and ASEAN summit edit In the 2022 communal elections he reiterated his call for all eligible Cambodians to participate in the civic process by exercising their right to vote and to not worry about oppression threats or intimidation from any person or party at all something that he had previously urged a few years back in the 2017 communal elections Several political parties expressed appreciation for the King s public appeal 157 126 158 The communal elections result saw a victory for the ruling CPP although the Candlelight Party which has links with the dissolved CNRP made some relatively surprising gains 159 At the ASEAN summit in November 2022 Sihamoni hosted regional leaders at the royal palace where he reinforced Cambodia s commitment to the bloc of nations and emphasized the continued importance of inter state collaboration in addressing contemporary issues 160 Later at the interrelated 43rd General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter Parliamentary Assembly he further touched upon several topics This included the centrality of peace in relation to socio economic development healthcare and educational investment concern regarding the Myanmar conflict the impact of increasing tensions between global powers the threat of nuclear weapons climate change and the lingering effects of the COVID 19 pandemic 161 162 General election 2023 edit In February 2023 several months ahead of the 23 July general election Sihamoni once again advocated as he has done in prior years for electoral participation amongst the public and for free elections to take place 163 His call was backed by the National Election Committee whom urged the citizenry to heed the King s message 164 despite insinuations of bias levelled against him by former opposition leader Rainsy These claims were roundly rejected and condemned by government officials including multiple cabinet ministers 165 The election unsurprisingly resulted in the CPP s victory in which they retained their ruling majority in the legislature though there was controversy involving the disqualification of the opposition Candlelight Party by electoral authorities 166 167 168 On 26 July just a few days after the election Prime Minister Hun Sen announced his intention to tender his resignation in favour of his son Hun Manet Sen had an audience with Sihamoni at the Royal Palace who reportedly consented in a formality to his decision and for the transitional arrangements that was scheduled within August 2023 for Manet s and the new government s appointment 169 170 171 172 173 A royal decree was formally issued on 7 August tasking Manet with forming a new government for the seventh mandate and requesting confidence from the National Assembly 174 175 In late August he received the endorsement and confidence of the National Assembly to serve as head of government Subsequently King Sihamoni officially appointed and sworn in Manet as the second Prime Minister of his reign along with the new cabinet and members of parliament as well as officiating the inaugural opening for the new legislative term 176 177 178 179 Philanthropy edit nbsp King Sihamoni visiting Don Bosco Technical School in Sihanoukville in 2007 King Sihamoni s reign has been focused on the wellbeing of the Khmer people He has been described by some as a humble monarch because of his philanthropic endeavours and is well known for carrying out humanitarian activities 180 181 66 182 This can be soon through various examples such as in 2006 where when the relocation of one of the campuses of the Royal University of Fine Arts caused an inconvenience to students and teachers including posing safety concerns he arranged for the donation of three minibuses to assist with transportation 183 184 185 Another example was in the aftermath of the 2010 Phnom Penh stampede at Koh Pich that saw hundreds killed and injured where he reached out to the victims and their families donating money to every household who had lost a family member in the incident as well as financially supporting those who were injured 186 187 188 In 2016 he donated a record breaking 6 5 million from the proceeds that was gained from the selling of the royal residence in Koh Kong to the Kantha Bopha Foundation which oversees a group of nationally renowned children s hospitals 189 Furthermore in 2018 upon learning of the plight of provincial people affected by flooding he gave essential goods to over 500 families 190 At times he has even assisted his fellow citizens first hand during adverse events such as venturing out into flooded areas and handing out goods to victims directly 191 and was once reported to have requested for his official state car to stop so he can give a blanket to an elderly Cambodian who he saw on the roadside 189 Additionally Sihamoni is said to donate to the Cambodian Red Cross on a regular basis 192 and has authorized royal grants for infrastructure 193 schools 194 orphanages 195 struggling communities 196 religious institutions 197 people affected by a disability 198 rehabilitation centres 199 mental health organizations 200 victims of violence 201 and sponsoring student s trips 202 among others His philanthropy extends in the international context as well like for instance after Hurricane Katrina the King made a personal good will donation to victims of the storm 203 He has also donated towards multiple relief efforts after the occurrence of natural disasters in China 204 205 Amidst the global COVID 19 pandemic King Sihamoni alongside Queen Mother Norodom Monineath has donated well over 1 million to the Royal Government of Cambodia s efforts to address the situation in Cambodia inspiring a concerted public campaign across the country 206 207 208 Moreover the King has made contributions in the provision of essential supplies including donations of food water and face masks to Cambodians severely impacted by COVID 19 209 In July 2022 he contributed 500 000 towards ongoing demining efforts in the nation which is still plagued by problematic landmines leftover from decades of conflict 210 211 Cultural advocacy edit Dancing requires neither pen nor paintbrush Only one instrument is necessary the human body Every motion is imbued with dance To move is to dance Dance exacts the utmost dedication of body mind and soul Only the truly committed can pursue this demanding path To us Khmers dance in its most elaborate form is a means to draw us closer to the gods Thus dance becomes prayer It becomes an indispensable ritual for the world to move forward transcending us to the divine and raising us to supernatural heights An excerpt from King Sihamoni s message to mark 2006 International Dance Day 212 nbsp King Sihamoni arrives for the 2008 Royal Ploughing Ceremony in Phnom Penh with National Assembly President Heng Samrin and Royal Palace Minister Kong Sam Ol Sihamoni also remains an ardent advocate for Cambodian arts and culture 180 213 For instance in 2006 when he was designated by the International Theatre Institute as its Message Author for International Dance Day he extolled the symbolism and virtue of dance with reference to the Royal Ballet of Cambodia 214 215 In September 2012 he presided over the opening of L ombrello di Beatocello a documentary film by Georges Gachot showcasing the life s work of famed Swiss pediatrician Beat Richner and his contribution to Khmer society 216 217 Likewise in February 2017 he did the same at the global premiere of acclaimed Cambodian based film First They Killed My Father documenting the experiences of Loung Ung a survivor of the Khmer Rouge and directed by Oscar winning actress Angelina Jolie whom he had earlier hosted along with her family at The Royal Residence in Siem Reap prior to the occasion 218 219 220 In March 2023 as part of the 12th Cambodian International Film Festival he presided over the premiere screening for The Perfect Motion a film directed by Xavier de Lauzanne which explored the progression of the kingdom s Royal Ballet and one of the interlinked works by Princess Norodom Buppha Devi 221 The King is a strong proponent of Buddhism and of the integral place it maintains in the cultural life of the Khmer nation 222 223 224 and he usually officiates key festivals on the Buddhist calendar 225 Moreover he supports the work of the country s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts whom reportedly engages regularly in consultations with him on advancing their overall strategic agenda 226 Additionally as King he presides over the annual Bon Om Touk a major festive cultural event on the yearly calendar with ancient roots dating back to the Khmer Empire 213 227 228 in conjunction with other traditionally important national events like for example Independence Day 229 the Royal Ploughing Ceremony 230 and Khmer New Year 231 232 233 He also presided over the torch lighting ceremony in March 2023 at Angkor Wat marking the start of the torch relay for the 32nd Southeast Asian Games that was held in Phnom Penh that same year in May 234 Furthermore Sihamoni has been commended for his dedication to archaeological preservation conservation and research with specificity to Cambodia 235 In particular as Honorary President of ICC Angkor International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of Historic Site of Angkor King Sihamoni places special emphasis on the efforts to protect this national symbol and treasure engaging frequently with the body s work through fulfilling representative functions or routine briefings given directly to him or via a delegated senior representative 236 237 238 239 In 2011 he attended the completion ceremony pertaining to restoration works at the Baphuon historical temple in Angkor 240 In late 2021 he championed Cambodia s bid for the proposed inclusion of Koh Ker an ancient Khmer archaeological site alongside Bokator one of the kingdom s oldest martial arts on the UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage and World Heritage Site lists 241 242 The eventual outcome resulted in both being successfully inscribed on to their respective listings 243 244 In November 2023 the King inaugurated the formal ceremonies to commemorate the completion of restorative works for the western causeway into Angkor Wat and its reopening which was closed for several years due to its deteriorating condition 245 246 nbsp King Norodom Sihamoni and Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo Japan on 22 October 2019 Overseas visits edit Main article List of state visits made by Norodom Sihamoni In the international arena his first official foreign trip as King was to China in 2004 where he met with President Hu Jintao indicative of a strong friendship long established from the days of his father between China and the Cambodian royal family Here he routinely also undertakes yearly health related visits usually to Beijing and have formal courtesy calls with members of China s political leadership 247 248 249 In 2015 he attended the United Nations COP21 summit and gave an impassioned speech highlighting the impact of the climate crisis on Cambodia and urging international efforts on this front to be expedited 250 251 He represented Cambodia at the 2019 Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations CDAC in Beijing aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and intercultural exchange 252 253 Other notable trips include to Japan where he was the first Cambodian sovereign since the monarchical restoration of the 1990s to visit 254 his second homeland of the Czech Republic where he spent his childhood 255 a landmark state visit to India 256 257 and France Cambodia s former colonial power 258 Public image editIn contrast to his father former King Norodom Sihanouk s mercurial and outspoken reign 259 260 261 262 commentators note that Sihamoni has maintained a relatively low key profile 263 with his tenure being characterized by an award winning article of The Phnom Penh Post as being Reign of the quiet king 264 265 Nonetheless leading national leaders across the political spectrum recognize the King as a unifying force in Cambodian society Prime Minister Hun Sen gave praise to Sihamoni for honourably carrying out his role as a symbol of national unity stability happiness and prosperity noting his humanitarianism 192 266 as well as efforts in strengthening national prestige and fostering a spirit of solidarity amongst Cambodians 267 268 Similarly de facto Leader of the Opposition Sam Rainsy shares this sentiment welcoming his ability to bring people together in the national interest 269 although amid internal political developments that is seen as indicative of democratic backsliding 121 270 this view held by Rainsy has not always been consistent 271 272 273 Thus it is within this juxtaposition from a power politics analytical standpoint including on the limits and extent of constitutional monarchism and given the political polarization 274 275 276 277 that there are often divergent perspectives concerning the King between those who implore for his active politicism 68 69 278 279 and those who advocate he sustain his guarded apoliticism 75 76 77 132 nbsp Public display of King Sihamoni in Royal Palace Park commemorating an anniversary of his coronation Scholar Milton Osborne regarded as amongst the world s most distinguished authors specializing in Southeast Asia 280 281 commends him as a dedicated servant of his people that is cultured and disciplined 26 but he questions the monarchical institution s long term survivability 282 283 The latter can be attributed in part due to competing power structures whereby there were periods of past historical tensions between some members of the royal family and the executive branch 284 285 286 287 81 However in recent years Prime Minister Hun Sen has given steadfast assurances which therefore signals his government s intent to preserve the monarchy well into the future 288 289 290 Prominent Cambodian history professor Sambo Manara credits Sihamoni as a morale model for all Khmer people whom exudes a calm and kind demeanor underscored by a sincere warmth towards his subjects notwithstanding some misconceived notions about the King s role from within some sectors of the population in particular the youth demographic 226 291 292 Reflecting after a royal audience with the King in 2013 then International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde expressed how she was profoundly touched by his thoughtfulness and compassion and how he not only cares deeply about the welfare of his people but is clearly passionately devoted to promoting the cultural and artistic heritage of his country 293 On the occasion of his 68th birthday ASEAN described King Sihamoni as a monarch who is cherished and well respected by the people of Cambodia and as someone who exemplifies dignified and humbled leadership characterized by his frequent engagements with the populace through local visitations 294 295 The King s birthday on 14 May in conjunction with his coronation day on 29 October are both annual public holidays in Cambodia 296 and in 2019 a special commemorative 15 000 riel was issued in his honour celebrating the 15th anniversary of his tenure as sovereign 297 298 Sihamoni is also featured on the 200 500 2 000 10 000 20 000 and 100 000 riels respectively 299 and his portrait alongside the King father and Queen mother is prominent across many parts of the country illustrative of their highly revered status 300 301 Lese majeste edit In February 2018 the penal code was formally revised to incorporate lese majeste legislation which makes it an offence to insult the king pursuant to its promulgation by Cambodia s National Assembly and Senate and the law came into effect the following month Human rights groups had voiced concerns that the law may be potentially used to suppress political opponents of the government and considered it to be incompatible with respect to the freedom of speech though the Ministry of Justice maintains that the law is necessary in protecting the monarchy from people who push the boundaries of said freedom 302 303 304 305 After this law was enacted there have been seldom arrests charges 306 271 307 308 309 and convictions 310 311 with the most notable case being that of Opposition Leader Sam Rainsy 272 Prior to this legislative enactment the constitution did acknowledge the inviolability of the monarch and this constitutional provision was tested in 2017 when the Ministry of Interior pursued charges against a few individuals who were indignant towards the King on social media 312 nbsp King Sihamoni visiting Banteay Srei temple in 2005Personal life editThe King is a bachelor and has no children As Cambodia is not a hereditary monarchy but rather an elective monarchy his future successor will be determined by the Royal Council of the Throne chosen from the lineage of one of the two royal houses of Cambodia in accordance with the country s constitution 313 314 His parents King Father Norodom Sihanouk and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath were once questioned by journalists about Sihamoni s marital status and when he was planning to get married In response the Queen Mother replied that her son only feels Buddhist and that he confines himself to Buddhism The King Father added that because of this his son s affection for women is akin to that of as his sisters and that he dares not to make a deep relationship This reflects Sihamoni s adherence to a monastic way of life which is underpinned by his austere piety and devotion to faith 315 316 317 In some respects Sihamoni is regarded somewhat as an enigmatic figure with the available literature pointing to a reflective deliberate and cultured man who apparently had reservations in becoming King yet in spite of this humbly assumed the solemn responsibility of his position whilst holding his cards close to his chest 318 319 38 Interests edit Apart from his interest in the arts and culture which is well documented it is reported that the king is a man of simple tastes Purportedly in his free time he enjoys the peace of meditation reading exercising listening to classical music such as by the likes of Beethoven and observance to traditional Buddhist rituals In addition it is reported that he enjoys comedy films is the occasional fan of chocolates and likes to keep up with current events and news balancing his personal interests with that of his busy and rigid schedule as head of state 318 His commitment to the duties of a monarch could be seen in 2011 where he famously declined to attend the royal wedding of then Kate Middleton and Prince William which the British tabloids headlined as a snub This was quickly refuted by Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials who informed that a declination notification was indeed advised and that no snub occurred whatsoever 320 321 Moreover alongside having an interest in DVDs relating to ballet and opera in general he is also skilled at playing the piano and is reputedly a keen reader of reviews covering the Czech theatre scene 291 282 Wealth edit During speeches that Prime Minister Hun Sen delivered in November 2020 and August 2021 he made rare public references about the King s wealth by mentioning that compared to other monarchies in the world Cambodia s monarchy is amongst the poorest He further added that the King does not have his own private property However these factors Sen noted were irrelevant as more importantly Sihamoni has a generous heart towards his people as evident by his philanthropic contributions 322 323 Languages edit Besides his native Khmer Sihamoni speaks Czech fluently being the only ruling monarch in the world to do so 324 325 The king is also fluent in French and is a conversational speaker of English and Russian He has basic fluency in Mandarin as well 326 264 Filmography edit Main article Norodom Sihanouk filmography Then Prince Sihamoni during the 1960s and 1990s starred in a few films mainly directed by his father who was a prolific and accomplished film maker He has also been the subject of documentaries and directed a few films himself English title Other names Year Role Notes Ref The Curious History of Cambodia s Beloved Kings N A 2021 Subject Documentary part of a series called Asia s Monarchies made by Real Royalty 327 The Other Little Prince Jiny maly princ 1967 Subject A Czech Documentary film Directed by Vladimir Sis 14 My Village at Sunset Mon village au coucher du soleil 1992 Actor Film was the winner of the Prix Special at the Saint Petersburg Festival Directed by Norodom Sihanouk 328 The Little Prince Prachea Komar ព រ ប រជ ក ម រ 1967 Actor Film won the Golden Apsara Award at the 1968 Phnom Penh International Film Festival Directed by Norodom Sihanouk 329 Dream N A 1992 Director A ballet film by Prince Sihamoni during his time at the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation or Khemara Pictures 330 331 The Four Elements Four Seasons 1993 Director A ballet film by Prince Sihamoni during his time at the Royal Khmer Cinematic Corporation or Khemara Pictures 330 332 Norodom Sihanouk King and Film maker N A 1997 Guest appearance A French documentary film Directed by Jean Baptiste Martin and written by Frederic Mitterrand 333 334 Titles and styles editStyles of King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia nbsp Reference styleHis MajestySpoken styleYour Majesty nbsp The Royal Standard of the King of Cambodia or sovereign s personal flag Before he was crowned king his princely royal title granted to him in February 1994 by King Sihanouk was Sdech Krom Khun Khmer ស ត ចក រ មឃ ន or His Royal Highness Sdech Krom Khun Norodom Sihamoni equating him to the rank of Great Prince 335 2 In August 2004 King Sihanouk elevated the then Prince Sihamoni to the distinguished title of Samdech Preah Boromneath Khmer សម ដ ច ព រ បរមន ថ 2 As King his full regnal title is Preahkaruna Preah Bath Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni Samanphoum Cheatsasna Rakhatkhateya Khemrarothreas Puthinthrea Thoreamohaksat Khemreachnea Samophorpheas Kampuch Ekreachroatboranaksanteh Sopheakmongkulea Sereyvibolar Khemarasreypireas Preah Chao Krong Kampuchea Thipadey in romanized Khmer Khmer ព រ ករ ណ ព រ ប ទសម ត ចព រ បរមន ថ នរ ត តម ស ហម ន សម នភ ម ជ ត ស សន រក ខតខត ត យ ខ មរ រដ ឋរ ស ត រ ព ទ ធ ន ទ រ ធរ មមហ ក សត រ ខ មរ ជន សម ហ ភ ស កម ព ជឯករ ជរដ ឋប រណសន ត ស ភមង គល ស រ វ ប ល ខ មរ ស រ ព រ ស ត រ ព រ ច ក រ ងកម ព ជ ធ បត roughly translating to His Merciful Excellent Majesty Protector King Norodom Sihamoni who unites the nation religion realms and people of Khmer state the great king who is supported by Buddha and Indra the protector of independence unification and peace the Great King of the Kingdom of Cambodia 336 337 338 The King s shortened official title is His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni King of the Kingdom of Cambodia Khmer ព រ ករ ណ ព រ ប ទសម ត ច ព រ បរមន ថ នរ ត តម ស ហម ន ព រ មហ ក សត រ ន ព រ រ ជ ណ ចក រកម ព ជ 339 340 In June 2015 he was bestowed the honorary religious title Preah SriLoka Dhammika Raja Khmer ព រ ស រ ល កធម ម ករ ជ or Virtuous King for the Propagation of Buddhism in the World which was recommended for him at the Sixth Buddhist Summit in the year prior in December 2014 341 342 343 During an overseas trip in September 2015 he was conferred the academic title of Honorific Professor by the Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Nanchang China 344 On 24 June 2023 the World Fellowship of Buddhists WFB awarded the King the honorary title of Royal Patron in an event held at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh 345 In the military context one of his concurrent titular styles is Supreme Commander of the Royal Khmer Armed Forces which is in line with the country s constitution 346 Patronages editAs King Sihamoni has served as the patron of many causes and organizations as well as a range of NGOs and NPOs This includes but is not limited to the below list Heritage edit Honorary President of ICC Angkor International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of Historic Site of Angkor 238 Angkor Wat Western Causeway Restoration Project Patron 347 348 Baphuon Temple at Angkor Restoration Project Patron 349 Greater Angkor Collaborative Research Project Patron 350 Angkor Medieval Hospitals Archaeological Project Patron 351 Symposium Deux decennies de cooperation archeologique franco cambodgienne a Angkor Patron 352 Guimet Museum Patron of Angkor The Rise of a Myth Exhibition 353 Preah Norodom Sihanouk Angkor Museum Patron of inauguration ceremony 354 Koh Ker Temple Patron of successful bid for its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list 355 356 Preah Suramarit National Theatre Patron of attempted restoration efforts 357 358 Statue of St John of Nepomuk in Divina Slovakia Patron of the project of restoration 2017 359 Cultural edit nbsp US Ambassador Heidt King Sihamoni Queen Mother Monineath Mrs Heidt and Culture Minister Sackona at the US Air Force Band String Quartet special concert in 2016 Member of the High Council of French speaking Countries 2004 360 Foreign Associate Member of the Academie des Inscriptions et Belles Lettres 2008 361 362 International Dance Day Message Author 2006 214 363 Mozart at Angkor Project Patron 364 Center for Khmer Studies Library Siem Reap Patron 365 Nginn Karet Foundation for Cambodia Preah Ream Buppha Devi Conservatoire Patron of dance troupe The Sacred Dancers of Angkor 366 367 Nuits d Angkor Festival Patron 368 Cambodian Living Arts Patron 369 Cambodian International Film Festival CIFF Patron 370 Technicolour Foundation MEMORY International Film Heritage Festival 2014 Patron 371 Cie Cabaret des Oiseaux Patron 372 GoGo Cambodia world record setting Krama initiative Patron 373 374 Angkor Archaeological Park meditation centre Patron 375 Ricardo Casal s 90 Khmer Figures Art Exhibition in collaboration with Royal University of Fine Arts as part of 2013 French Week Patron 376 Kep Expo 2018 Patron 377 United States Embassy in Cambodia s Air Force Band String Quartet special concert 8 May 2016 Patron 378 Royal Thai Embassy in Cambodia s Choral Music for Friendship A Concert by Suanplu Chorus 21 June 2019 Patron 379 China Disabled Persons Performing Art Troupe Patron 380 Battery Dance Company Patron of performance on 21 October 2006 381 382 First They Killed My Father Patron of film 383 L ombrello di Beatocello Patron of film 384 385 The Perfect Motion Patron of film 386 Community edit Cambodian Red Cross Patron 192 387 Cambodian Children s Fund Patron 388 Samdech Euv Team Patron 389 Krousar Thmey Foundation 25th Anniversary Celebration Ceremony Honorary President 390 Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Cambodia Patron of 20th Anniversary Celebration and new Mental Health Treatment Center 391 Kantha Bopha Foundation Patron of 25th Anniversary new ward Kantha Bopha V surgery centre Kantha Bopha I amp major donor 189 392 393 394 Eye Care Foundation Patron 395 Samdech Techo Project for Mine Action STP MA Patron 210 Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University Establishing Patron 396 397 Sihanouk Hospital Center of Hope Patron 398 399 Calmette Hospital Neurology Center Centre De Neurosciences Patron 400 401 Teach Them To Fish Foundation Patron 402 Cambodian Day of Older People International Day of Older Persons Patron 403 International Children s Day Patron 404 KaisKids Orphanage Patron 405 Waltzing Around Cambodia Onlus Patron 406 AIP Foundation Patron of Cambodia Helmet Vaccine Initiative CHVI 407 House of Family Patron 408 409 Cambodian National Committee to Fight Covid 19 Patron 410 Royal University of Fine Arts Patron of transportation service through the donation of 3 minibuses to the university s north campus 411 412 Don Bosco Foundation Patron 413 Hurricane Katrina disaster relief Patron 414 General disaster relief in China Patron the King has made several donations in the aftermath of natural disasters 415 416 Sporting edit Royal Angkor Endurance Competition 2018 Patron of inaugural event 417 Norodom Sihanouk du Cambodge National Show Jumping Championships Patron 418 32nd Southeast Asian SEA Games Patron 419 Bokator Khmer martial art Patron of successful bid for its inclusion on the UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage list 420 421 Environmental edit Airavata Elephant Foundation Establishing Patron 422 423 National Arbor Day Patron 424 425 Rubbish Project Patron of Naga Sculpture in Siem Reap to mark 2008 World Water Day 426 427 Honours editNational honours edit nbsp Cambodia nbsp Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Cambodia 428 nbsp Grand Cross of the Royal Order of Monisaraphon 428 Foreign honours edit nbsp France nbsp Grand Cross of the Order of the Legion of Honour 2010 429 nbsp Grand Officer of the Order of the Legion of Honour 2004 428 nbsp Japan nbsp Collar and Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum 11 May 2010 430 Ecumenical orders edit nbsp Order of Saint Lazarus Grand Cross of Merit of the Order of Saint Lazarus 10 May 2008 431 Awards edit nbsp Czech Republic Gratias Agit Award of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2006 432 433 nbsp Prague Honorary Citizen of the City of Prague 2006 429 434 nbsp Paris Silver Medal of the City of Paris 428 Honorary degrees edit Academy of Performing Arts in Prague Honorary Doctorate 19 March 2010 435 Naresuan University Honorary Doctorate in Political Science 12 June 2015 436 St Elizabeth University of Health and Social Sciences Honorary Doctorate in Social Work 437 438 Honourific eponyms edit Dendrobium Norodom Sihamoni an orchid named in honour of the King 30 March 2006 439 440 Musee Preahbat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni Norodom Sihamoni Museum Royal Palace Phnom Penh 441 Sattapanniguha Auditorium named in honour of King Sihamoni Nenbutsushu Sampozan Muryojuji Temple Katō Hyōgo Prefecture Japan 442 Preah Norodom Sihamoni Primary School in Chhnuk Trou Commune Baribour district 443 Preah Norodom Sihamoni General and Technical Lycee in Kampot Province 444 Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni General amp Technical High School Aur Russei Commune Kampong Tralach District 445 446 Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University in Phnom Penh 396 397 Kantha Bopha Sihamoni Monineath Heart Surgery Centre II at Kantha Bopha I Children s Hospital in Phnom Penh 447 King Sihamoni Meditation Centre at Angkor Archaeological Park Siem Reap province 448 King Norodom Sihamoni Boulevard in Siem Reap Siem Reap province 449 King Norodom Sihamoni Avenue in Siem Reap Siem Reap province 450 King Norodom Sihamoni Road in Siem Reap Siem Reap province 451 Ancestry editAncestors of Norodom Sihamoni16 Norodom of Cambodia8 Norodom Sutharot17 Bossaba Yem4 Norodom Suramarit18 Norodom of Cambodia 16 9 Norodom Phangangam19 Socheat Bopha Nuon2 Norodom Sihanouk20 Sisowath of Cambodia10 Sisowath Monivong21 Van5 Sisowath Kossamak22 Norodom Hassakan11 Norodom Kanviman23 Sao Sambat1 Norodom Sihamoni6 Jean Francois Izzi3 Norodom Monineath14 Peang 452 7 Pomme Peang15 OukReferences edit People and Society Cambodia 6 January 2022 a b c d e f g h Biography of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia Official Website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 1 January 2013 Retrieved 5 September 2021 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute p 134 ISBN 9789924907855 The strange case of the King of Cambodia Financial Review 5 November 2004 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Naruttama Nara uttama Narottama 13 definitions Wisdom Library 7 August 2021 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Norodom BabyNamesCube com 2023 Retrieved 5 August 2023 The First Lady of the Kingdom The Royal House of Cambodia by Julio A Jeldres 2003 OCLC 54003889 King s biography Archived 27 April 2008 at the Wayback Machine Obituary Norodom Sihanouk former king of Cambodia BBC News 15 October 2012 Retrieved 23 April 2022 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute pp 198 201 ISBN 9789924907855 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute p 134 ISBN 9789924907855 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute pp 136 137 ISBN 9789924907855 King to visit alma mater in the Czech Republic The Phnom Penh Post 16 March 2010 Retrieved 31 March 2022 a b Jiny maly princ The Other Little Prince Cesko Slovenska filmova databaze Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute pp 139 141 ISBN 9789924907855 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute pp 139 141 ISBN 9789924907855 CAMBODIA BEFORE 1975 Holocaust Memorial Day Trust 2023 Retrieved 7 October 2023 40 Years After the Fall of the Khmer Rouge Cambodia Still Grapples With Pol Pot s Brutal Legacy TIME 7 January 2019 Retrieved 7 October 2023 Profile King Sihamoni BBC News 14 October 2004 Retrieved 5 September 2021 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute p 141 ISBN 9789924907855 Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 1st ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute p 80 ISBN 9789924907855 a b c Norodom Sihamoni king of Cambodia Encyclopaedia Britannica 10 May 2020 Retrieved 5 September 2021 Cambodia profile Timeline BBC News 10 May 2020 Retrieved 5 September 2021 a b c Jeldres Julio A 2017 The Royal House of Cambodia 2nd ed Cambodia The Sleuk Rith Institute p 142 ISBN 9789924907855 New god king ends Cambodia s pain The Sunday Times 17 October 2004 Retrieved 31 March 2022 a b Reign of the quiet king The Phnom Penh Post 29 October 2014 Retrieved 18 September 2021 The Weekend Australian 16 17 October 2004 Findlay Trevor 1995 SIPRI Research Report No 9 Cambodia The Legacy and Lessons of UNTAC PDF Report Stockholm International Peace Research Institute Cambodia king confirms abdication BBC News 10 October 2004 Retrieved 6 September 2021 Cambodia s succession riddle BBC News 8 October 2004 Retrieved 6 September 2021 Cambodia chooses new monarch BBC News 14 October 2004 Retrieved 6 September 2021 Profile King Sihamoni BBC News 14 October 2004 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Shuffling Heirs to Cambodia Throne New York Times 30 November 2002 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Royal trumps on the table aces up the sleeve Phnom Penh Post 22 March 1996 Retrieved 12 September 2023 Prince Opts For Politics Not Throne Cambodia Daily 14 November 2001 Retrieved 12 September 2023 Throne Council Selects Sihamoni to be the Next King Cambodia Daily 15 October 2004 Retrieved 12 September 2023 The Prince who didn t want to be King Khmer Times 27 October 2017 Retrieved 2 April 2022 a b Son of Cambodian king ready to accept crown Irish Examiner 11 October 2004 Retrieved 2 April 2022 a b King Sihamoni arrives Phnom Penh Post 22 October 2004 Retrieved 24 April 2022 WRAP Arrival of Cambodia s new King Norodom Sihamoni Archived from the original on 24 April 2022 Retrieved 24 April 2022 via YouTube a href Template Cite AV media html title Template Cite AV media cite AV media a Unknown parameter agency ignored help Sheridan Michael 17 October 2004 New god king ends Cambodia s pain The Sunday Times Retrieved 31 March 2022 Sheridan Michael 17 October 2004 New god king ends Cambodia s pain The Sunday Times Retrieved 31 March 2022 In Pictures King Sihamoni s coronation BBC News 29 October 2004 Retrieved 11 June 2012 Ceremonies of the coronation of HM King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia 28 30 October 2004 Monash University Research Repository Archived from the original on 22 December 2021 Retrieved 6 September 2021 via YouTube a b When Sihamoni became King The Phnom Penh Post 14 May 2009 Retrieved 4 September 2021 Cambodia s muted coronation BBC News 29 October 2004 Retrieved 24 April 2022 Cambodia s New King Gives First Address NBC News 30 October 2004 Retrieved 4 September 2021 Sihamoni crowned new King The Phnom Penh Post 5 November 2004 Retrieved 15 July 2022 Cambodia s king wins high marks after six months on throne Taipei Times 17 May 2005 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Willemyns Alex 29 October 2014 10 Years into Sihamoni s Reign A Changed Palace The Cambodia Daily Retrieved 29 October 2014 Cambodia s low key King Sihamoni celebrates 10 years on throne Archived from the original on 22 December 2021 Retrieved 6 September 2021 via YouTube a href Template Cite AV media html title Template Cite AV media cite AV media a Unknown parameter agency ignored help a b c More royals could face political exit The Phnom Penh Post 12 December 2008 Return of Ranariddh The Phnom Penh Post 25 February 2014 Retrieved 11 September 2021 Cambodian Princess Norodom Arunrasmy appointed as advisor to gov t Xinhua News Agency 21 November 2020 Retrieved 11 September 2021 Board of Directors Cambodian Institute for Cooperation and Peace 2021 Retrieved 11 September 2021 Strong is the Sangkum the stirrings of discontent Phnom Penh Post 27 February 1998 Retrieved 15 July 2022 Winner Loser agree to coalition in Cambodia The Washington Post 19 June 1993 Retrieved 15 July 2022 A Noren Nilsson 2022 The Demise of Cambodian Royalism and the Legacy of Sihanouk Sojourn Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia 31 1 1 36 11 26 http www jstor org stable 2477978 A New Royalist Party Would Have Little Hope Analysts Say VOA News 27 February 2014 Retrieved 15 July 2022 An end to an era as Hun Sen passes baton to son Manet Phnom Penh Post 26 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Cambodian Prince Ranariddh s body arrives home from France The Star 5 December 2021 Retrieved 28 July 2023 End of an era PM Hun Sen stepping down after helming nation for over 38 years Khmer Times 27 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Hun Sen made Privy Council President Khmer Times 23 August 2023 Retrieved 26 August 2023 Two veteran civil servants join the Supreme Privy Council Khmer Times 6 September 2023 Retrieved 6 September 2023 A King to unite the country gives the monarchy life after Sihanouk The Phnom Penh Post 14 May 2009 Retrieved 4 September 2021 a b Sihamoni Marks Reign With Praise for Stability The Cambodia Daily 30 October 2014 Retrieved 6 September 2021 Freedom in the World 2016 Cambodia Freedom House via UNHCR 14 July 2016 Retrieved 28 March 2023 a b Cambodian Opposition Member Urges King Sihamoni to Intervene in Political Deadlock Radio Free Asia 14 May 2020 retrieved 7 September 2021 a b Be a leader Sochua calls on king to intervene to ensure her return Southeast Asia Globe 5 January 2021 retrieved 17 April 2022 The Cambodian monarchy must step back from politics East Asia Forum 26 October 2013 Retrieved 19 April 2022 CONSTITUTION OF THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA ANNOTATED PDF International Labour Organization 4 March 1999 Retrieved 19 April 2022 New Cambodian king nervous BBC News 15 October 2004 Retrieved 7 September 2021 Meet Norodom Sihamoni the Far Eastern King who spoke Czech Kafkadesk 20 September 2021 Retrieved 19 April 2022 Cambodia s Sihanouk May Play Last Hand NBC News 11 October 2004 Retrieved 19 March 2022 a b A King to unite the country gives the monarchy life after Sihanouk The Phnom Penh Post 14 May 2009 Retrieved 19 March 2022 a b King Sihamoni Seeks Neutrality in a Deeply Divided Nation The Cambodia Daily 20 October 2013 Retrieved 19 March 2022 a b The Cambodian monarchy must step back from politics East Asia Forum 26 October 2013 Retrieved 17 April 2022 Former King Norodom Sihanouk Clarifies his Duties in Border Committee VOA News 11 May 2005 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Former King Sihanouk Corrects Border History VOA News 16 November 2005 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Politicized protection for Cambodian royalty Asia Times 3 February 2018 Retrieved 8 July 2022 a b Citizens Worry Over PM s Threat to Monarchy The Cambodia Daily 19 October 2005 Retrieved 8 July 2022 King Signs Off On Border Pact With Vietnam Border Treaty The Cambodia Daily 1 December 2005 Retrieved 3 August 2022 PM Thanks King for Signing Border Agreement The Cambodia Daily 2 December 2005 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia Opposition Politicians Arrested Forced to Flee Human Rights Watch 6 February 2005 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodian politicians pardoned Aljazeera News 6 February 2006 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodian King pardons opposition leader ABC News 6 February 2006 Retrieved 2 August 2022 Opposition leader flees Cambodia The Globe and Mail 4 February 2005 Retrieved 4 August 2022 Cambodia 1997 Grenade Attack on Opposition Still Unpunished Human Rights Watch 30 March 2009 Retrieved 2 August 2022 Channy a prisoner of conscience Phnom Penh Post 12 August 2005 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodian lawmaker gets 7 years in prison The New York Times 10 August 2005 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia Pardons of Opposition Leader and Parliamentarian US Department of State 6 February 2006 Retrieved 2 August 2022 AMNESTY INTERNATIONALPRESS RELEASE Cambodia Release of prisoner of conscience Cheam Channy PDF Amnesty International 6 February 2006 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Senate of the Philippines 19th Congress PRESS RELEASE Drilon hails granting of pardon to Cambodian opposition leader Senate of the Philippines 9 February 2006 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Media Groups Call for Editor s Release VOA News Cambodia 27 August 2009 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodian journalist released from prison in amnesty Committee to Protect Journalists 27 April 2010 Retrieved 3 August 2022 No help for Hang Chakra from council Phnom Penh Post 4 September 2009 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Thai jailed in Cambodia over Thaksin flight leak Reuters 9 December 2009 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Cambodian king pardons Thai jailed for spying Reuters 12 December 2009 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Thaksin back in Cambodia as Thai spy to be freed Reuters 14 December 2009 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Thailand s ex leader jumps bail Los Angeles Times 12 August 2008 Retrieved 1 April 2023 King makes appeal for resolution Phnom Penh Post 8 August 2013 Retrieved 9 October 2013 Cambodian opposition leader pardoned by king Al Jazeera 12 July 2013 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Cambodia s royal pardon for opposition leader a step towards reconciliation UN expert United Nations 15 July 2013 Retrieved 26 March 2022 Cambodia Rainsy Sentence Shatters Pretense of Democracy Human Rights Watch 24 September 2010 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia election Hun Sen s ruling party claims victory BBC News 28 July 2013 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Cambodia election Opposition party rejects results BBC News 29 July 2013 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Cambodian election protesters march through Phnom Penh The Guardian 15 September 2013 Retrieved 1 April 2023 In Pictures Cambodians take to the streets Aljazeera 15 September 2013 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Cambodia s King Invites Hun Sen Sam Rainsy to Talks Radio Free Asia 12 September 2013 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Cambodia PM and opposition leader fail to resolve election standoff The Guardian 14 September 2013 Retrieved 4 September 2021 Cambodian king urges opposition to join parliament Bangkok Post 18 September 2013 Retrieved 4 September 2021 Cambodia talks after election protest clashes BBC News 16 September 2013 Retrieved 5 August 2023 King makes appeal for resolution Phnom Penh Post 8 August 2013 Retrieved 9 October 2013 Cambodian political rivals reach deal to end deadlock DW 22 July 2014 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Cambodia opposition leader Sam Rainsy endorsed by parliament ends year long stalemate Reuters 28 July 2014 Retrieved 1 April 2014 King Swears In Opposition Lawmakers The Cambodia Daily 6 August 2014 Retrieved 5 August 2023 King Convenes Opening of Contested National Assembly The Cambodia Daily 23 September 2013 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Unity key in King s message The Phnom Penh Post 30 October 2014 Retrieved 4 September 2021 It s good to talk Cambodia s culture of dialogue Southeast Asia Globe 1 September 2015 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Cambodia Issues Arrest Warrant for Rainsy VOA News 13 November 2015 Retrieved 8 August 2022 a b Cambodia s main opposition party dissolved by Supreme Court Reuters 16 November 2017 Retrieved 26 March 2022 With CNRP gone minor parties take their National Assembly seats Phnom Penh Post 28 November 2017 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia s Sam Rainsy found guilty of defamation ordered to pay 1 million Reuters 29 December 2017 Retrieved 8 August 2022 Cambodia 150 opposition politicians and supporters face jail in mass trials Amnesty International 14 January 2021 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Controversial Party Law signed though King declines to ink changes Phnom Penh Post 31 July 2017 Retrieved 7 July 2022 a b King Wades Into Politics With Call for Fearless Vote Cambodia Daily 21 March 2017 Retrieved 3 August 2022 King Sihamoni Urges Cambodians to Vote in Upcoming Elections VOA News Cambodia 22 March 2017 Retrieved 3 August 2022 King Flies Out Of Country Dodging Party Law Signing Cambodia Daily 24 July 2017 Retrieved 27 March 2023 Cambodian King Leaves Signing of Controversial Constitutional Amendments to Ruling Party Radio Free Asia 22 February 2018 Retrieved 7 July 2022 B Lawrence 2022 The Symbolic Safeguard Royal Absence in Cambodia s Constitutional Monarchy Asian Journal of Law and Society 9 3 382 398 doi 10 1017 als 2022 31 Monarchy stuck in middle of Cambodia s conflict Asia Times 25 May 2018 Retrieved 7 July 2022 a b Does Cambodia have a puppet king Asia Times 11 January 2021 Retrieved 9 August 2022 King Departs for China Amid Coronavirus Pandemic and the Potential State of Emergency VOA News Cambodia 31 March 2020 Retrieved 13 August 2022 B Lawrence 2022 The Symbolic Safeguard Royal Absence in Cambodia s Constitutional Monarchy Asian Journal of Law and Society 9 3 382 398 doi 10 1017 als 2022 31 B Lawrence 2022 The Symbolic Safeguard Royal Absence in Cambodia s Constitutional Monarchy Asian Journal of Law and Society 9 3 382 398 doi 10 1017 als 2022 31 Human Rights NGOs Urge the Rejection of LANGO ADHOC Cambodia 31 July 2015 Retrieved 21 September 2023 Civil society organisations urge Cambodia s king not to sign NGO law IFEX 5 August 2015 Retrieved 21 September 2023 Cambodia King should reject Law on Associations and Non Governmental Organizations Amnesty International 23 July 2015 Retrieved 21 September 2023 King urges citizens to vote as Hun Sen says Sihamoni s message is a slap to Sam Rainsy s face Phnom Penh Post 7 June 2018 Retrieved 13 April 2023 Cambodia election Ruling party claims landslide in vote with no main opposition BBC News 30 July 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia Hun Sen re elected in landslide victory after brutal crackdown The Guardian 29 July 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia s Ruling Party Just Held Senate Elections It Won Every Seat TIME 26 February 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia king urges Senate dominated by ruling party to protect rights Reuters 23 April 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia s parliament holds first session since July vote Reuters 5 September 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia launches one party legislature Agencia EFE 5 September 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Unity urged by King as West boycotts opening Phnom Penh Post 6 September 2018 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Senior Cambodian opposition figure allowed back in politics ABC News US 4 September 2020 Retrieved 3 August 2022 King grants political rehab for Ham and Chansak Phnom Penh Post 20 May 2021 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Pol Ham and Sokha s lawyer granted political rehabilitation Khmer Times 20 May 2021 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Three more ex CNRP officials granted political rehabilitation Phnom Penh Post 22 February 2022 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia s King Grants Royal Pardon to Kem Sokha Radio Free Asia 12 February 2016 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodia resumes treason trial of opposition leader Kem Sokha The Guardian 19 January 2022 Retrieved 3 August 2022 Cambodian opposition figure Kem Sokha sentenced to 27 years of house arrest Reuters 3 March 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Cambodia Land rights activist Tep Vanny released from prison following royal pardon Amnesty International 20 August 2018 Retrieved 4 August 2022 Cambodian king grants pardons to land rights activists Channel News Asia 21 August 2018 Retrieved 4 August 2022 Australian filmmaker James Ricketson granted royal pardon in Cambodia Sydney Morning Herald 21 September 2018 Retrieved 4 August 2022 Vote without fear says King Khmer Times 11 May 2022 Retrieved 3 August 2022 King encourages subjects to vote Phnom Penh Post 10 May 2022 Retrieved 17 March 2023 Cambodia s ruling party wins local commune elections but new opposition gains Reuters 6 June 2022 Retrieved 17 March 2023 PM pledges further support to Cambodia s ASEAN Community building efforts VietnamPlus Vietnam News Agency 10 November 2022 Retrieved 21 December 2022 King PM seek parliamentary co op for ASEAN unity peace Phnom Penh Post 21 November 2022 Retrieved 21 December 2022 Myanmar crisis thwarts ASEAN dreams says King Sihamoni Khmer Times 22 November 2022 Retrieved 21 December 2022 King asks subjects to vote in general election Phnom Penh Post 18 February 2023 Retrieved 22 February 2023 King appeals to citizens to cast ballots in National Election Khmer Times 20 February 2023 Retrieved 22 February 2023 Rainsy comes under heavy flak over latest insult Khmer Times 20 February 2023 Retrieved 22 February 2023 Cambodia s ruling party says it won a landslide victory in elections Reuters 24 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Cambodia s Elections No Surprises but an Uncertain Leadership Future Council on Foreign Relations 25 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Cambodia Disqualifies Main Opposition Party Ahead of Election The New York Times 16 May 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 An end to an era as Hun Sen passes baton to son Manet Phnom Penh Post 26 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Asia s longest ruling leader to hand power to West Point trained son NBC News 26 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 King Agrees to Appoint Hun Manet as New Prime Minister in August Cambojanews 26 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 End of an era PM Hun Sen stepping down after helming nation for over 38 years Khmer Times 27 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 Hun Manet will become new Prime Minister on August 22 Khmer Times 26 July 2023 Retrieved 28 July 2023 King issues a Royal Decree appointing His Excellency Dr Hun Manet as Prime Minister of Cambodia Khmer Times 7 August 2023 Retrieved 7 August 2023 Cambodia PM s son Hun Manet appointed next ruler in royal formality BBC News 7 August 2023 Retrieved 7 August 2023 Cambodia ushers in new era as National Assembly inaugurated Phnom Penh Post 21 August 2023 Retrieved 22 August 2023 Cambodia son of long time ruler Hun Sen becomes PM in historic transfer of power The Guardian 22 August 2023 Retrieved 22 August 2023 New Faces in Cambodia s Parliament as King Welcomes Incoming Lawmakers VOA News 21 August 2023 Retrieved 22 August 2023 Hun Manet officially Cambodia s Prime Minister Phnom Penh Post 22 August 2023 Retrieved 22 August 2023 a b Norodom Sihamoni king of Cambodia Encyclopaedia Britannica 10 May 2020 Retrieved 4 September 2021 The Story of Cambodia s Ballet Dancing King The Culture Trip Ltd 17 January 2018 Retrieved 24 April 2022 The King visits people in Kratie Khmer Times 28 June 2023 Retrieved 16 July 2023 En Route to Long Distance Learning Cambodia Daily 10 May 2008 Retrieved 1 August 2023 Diamond Catherine 2012 Communities of Imagination Contemporary Southeast Asian Theatres Honolulu Hawaii United States University of Hawaii Press p 122 His Majesty the King visits the Royal University of Fine Arts Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 2 March 2006 Retrieved 1 August 2023 Royal support to Koh Pich Victims Families Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 22 November 2010 Retrieved 22 September 2021 Royal support for Koh Pich victims Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 22 November 2010 Retrieved 22 September 2021 Royal support to Koh Pich victims and their families end Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 22 November 2010 Retrieved 22 September 2021 a b c The unspoken truth of King Sihamoni s generous spirit Khmer Times 14 May 2021 Retrieved 4 September 2021 King gives to victims of flood The Phnom Penh Post 25 July 2018 Retrieved 4 September 2021 His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni visits flood victims Feel Great Archived from the original on 22 December 2021 Retrieved 6 September 2021 via YouTube a b c Citizens reflect on King Sihamoni s legacy on Coronation Day Khmer Times 30 October 2019 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Royal Grant to the population of Oral District Kampong speu province Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 2 February 2010 Retrieved 17 September 2021 School buildings granted to different provinces Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 10 September 2006 Retrieved 17 September 2021 Food distribution toKean Laing orphanage Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 13 May 2008 Retrieved 17 September 2021 Royal donation to the poor of Vat Champa Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 13 May 2008 Retrieved 17 September 2021 Offering to Preah Tvea Pagoda Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 7 January 2006 Retrieved 17 September 2021 Royal donation to Seiha Samien Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 20 April 2007 Retrieved 17 September 2021 Food distribution to Chaom Chao rehabilitation center Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 13 May 2008 Retrieved 17 September 2021 TPO Cambodia Newsletter 8 April 2015 Issue 6 PDF Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Cambodia 8 April 2015 Retrieved 15 April 2022 King Sihamoni and Queen Mother Donate to Sunday s Victims The Cambodia Daily 18 September 2013 Retrieved 16 July 2023 Royal contribution to the Initiative For Change NGO Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 6 July 2006 Retrieved 17 September 2021 US Embassy Issues a Statement Thanking King Sihamoni for Donation for Katrina Victims VOA News Cambodia 13 September 2005 Retrieved 27 March 2022 Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian s Regular Press Conference on June 27 2022 The Embassy of the People s Republic of China in New Zealand Cook Islands Niue 27 June 2022 Retrieved 21 September 2023 Assistant Foreign Minister Wu Jianghao Meets with Cambodian Ambassador to China Khek Caimealy Sysoda Ministry of Foreign Affairs the People s Republic of China 31 August 2021 Retrieved 21 September 2023 Their Majesties the King and Queen Mother donate 1 Million for COVID 19 vaccine purchase Khmer Times 11 December 2020 Retrieved 4 September 2021 King Queen Mother donate 2M for Covid 19 fight The Phnom Penh Post 24 June 2020 Retrieved 4 September 2021 A King who is poor but with a golden heart Khmer Times 2 August 2021 Retrieved 20 September 2023 Covid donations flow in from Monarchy business community The Phnom Penh Post 29 April 2021 Retrieved 4 September 2021 a b Royals chip in to aid demining efforts TheStar 27 July 2022 Retrieved 31 July 2022 Clearing Cambodia s leftover land mines A dangerous job DW 30 August 2018 Retrieved 31 July 2022 Sa Majeste Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni Roi du Cambodge 2006 PDF International Theatre Institute 2006 Retrieved 24 April 2022 a b King Norodom Sihamoni and his love for Arts Khmer Times 14 May 2021 Retrieved 4 September 2021 a b International Dance Day His Majesty King Norodom SIHAMONI of Cambodia International Theatre Institute 2016 Retrieved 24 April 2022 Sa Majeste Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni Roi du Cambodge 2006 PDF International Theatre Institute 2006 Retrieved 24 April 2022 L ombrello di Beatocello screened at festivities honouring Beat Richner s humanitarian work in Cambodia SWISS FILMS 25 September 2012 Retrieved 11 July 2022 Beatocello s Umbrella IMDB 2012 Retrieved 11 July 2022 Cambodian royalty to open Angelina Jolie s film on Khmer Rouge survivor USA Today 14 February 2017 Retrieved 4 September 2021 Cambodia The Power of Memory BBC Documentary 2017 teamajolie BBC Archived from the original on 22 December 2021 Retrieved 14 September 2021 via YouTube Angelina Jolie And Kids Make First Public Appearance Since Her Split From Brad Pitt Huffington Post 19 February 2017 Retrieved 13 March 2023 Ballet doco premiered for King Phnom Penh Post 27 March 2023 Retrieved 8 April 2023 King promotes cool shade of Buddhism Khmer Times 17 December 2020 Retrieved 15 April 2022 King Sihamoni and PM lauded on International Buddhist Day The Phnom Penh Post 11 April 2022 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Cambodian Culture Religion Cultural Atlas 15 April 2022 Retrieved 15 April 2022 Reign of the quiet king The Phnom Penh Post 29 October 2014 Retrieved 25 April 2022 a b King Norodom Sihamoni a morale model to the people Khmer Times 14 May 2019 Retrieved 20 March 2022 Cambodia s Water Festival Aljazeera 22 November 2010 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Bon Om Touk Cambodian water festival Cambodia Angkor Air 2022 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Cambodia celebrates 66th Independence Day Phnom Penh Post 9 November 2019 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Royal Ploughing Ceremony 2017 in Cambodia Embassy of the Czech Republic in Phnom Penh 12 May 2017 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Celebration of Khmer New Year 1st day Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 14 April 2021 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Celebration of Khmer New Year 2nd day Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 14 April 2021 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Celebration of Khmer New Year 3rd day Official website of His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni 14 April 2021 Retrieved 25 April 2022 SEA Games regional relay kicks off as King lights torch Asia News Network 23 March 2023 Retrieved 27 March 2023 French society lauds Sihamoni for supporting art archaeology The Phnom Penh Post 15 March 2010 Retrieved 4 September 2021 ICC Angkor 20 years of international cooperation for conservation and sustainable development UNESCO 2013 Retrieved 24 April 2022 King Sihamoni returns after ICC Angkor event in Paris Khmer Times 27 May 2019 Retrieved 24 April 2022 a b His Majesty NORODOM Sihamoni the King of Cambodia held audience with the ICC Angkor s delegation UNESCO 2 March 2020 Retrieved 5 September 2021 ICC Angkor 25 years of model international cooperation UNESCO 2021 Retrieved 24 April 2022 Celebration of the restoration of the Baphuon Temple Ecole francaise d Extreme Orient 3 July 2011 Retrieved 4 September 2021 King Sihamoni requests new addition to World Heritage list Khmer Times 15 November 2021 Retrieved 21 November 2021 King Sihamoni requests Bokator and Koh Ker on the World Heritage List Khmer Times 16 November 2021 Retrieved 21 November 2021 Cambodia s Bokator now officially in World Heritage List Phnom Penh Post 30 November 2022 Retrieved 17 September 2023 Koh Ker Listed As A World Heritage Site Ministry of Information of Cambodia 17 September 2023 Retrieved 17 September 2023 Angkor grand causeway reopens to public Phnom Penh Post 4 November 2023 Retrieved 5 November 2023 Restoration of the Western Causeway of Angkor Wat Completed Completion Ceremony to be Held on November 4 Sophia University 16 October 2023 Retrieved 5 November 2023 Hu meets Cambodia s new king in Beijing China Daily 18 October 2004 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Why Cambodia s royals need close China ties that are separate from Hun Sen s government South China Morning Post 29 November 2020 Retrieved 8 September 2021 King Sihamoni returns home after routine medical checkup Khmer Times 13 April 2022 Retrieved 4 August 2022 King Sihamoni calls for climate action at COP21 The Phnom Penh Post 2 December 2015 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Statement By His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni Leader Event of the United Nations Climate Change Conference 30 November 2015 PDF Ministry of Environment of Cambodia 30 November 2015 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations Beijing UNESCO 15 May 2019 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Foreign leaders speak during opening of Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations in Beijing China Today 16 May 2019 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Emperor meets Cambodia king The Japan Times 18 May 2010 Retrieved 8 September 2021 King Sihamoni of Cambodia receives warm welcome in Prague Radio Prague International 20 September 2006 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Cambodian King s Maiden Visit To India To Mark 70 Years Of Diplomatic Relations NDTV 28 May 2023 Retrieved 14 July 2023 Cambodian King Sihamoni to visit India after 60 years The Daily Guardian 26 May 2023 Retrieved 14 July 2023 French President Jacques Chirac R greets visiting Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni upon his arrival at the Elysee Palace in Paris ON November 20 2006 The king is in France on a five day official visit Alamy 20 November 2006 CO13030 Norodom Sihanouk His Mercurial Art of Preserving a Small State S Rajaratnam School of International Studies 9 September 2014 Retrieved 22 March 2022 Norodom Sihanouk dies at 89 former king led Cambodia through decades of strife The Washington Post 15 October 2012 Retrieved 22 March 2022 Profile Norodom Sihanouk BBC News 14 October 2004 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Delicate dance for Cambodia king The Christian Science Monitor 1 November 2004 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Cambodia s low key King Sihamoni celebrates 10 years on throne Archived from the original on 29 October 2014 Retrieved 27 March 2022 via YouTube a href Template Cite AV media html title Template Cite AV media cite AV media a Unknown parameter agency ignored help a b McPherson Poppy 29 October 2014 Reign of the quiet king The Phnom Penh Post Retrieved 22 March 2022 Post earns four awards at annual SOPA event Phnom Penh Post 16 June 2015 Retrieved 1 April 2023 PM praises King for strong humanitarian support Khmer Times 27 November 2020 Retrieved 22 September 2023 King Sihamoni s 14 year reign celebrated Khmer Times 29 October 2018 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Hun Sen No peace no hope The Phnom Penh Post 12 February 2022 Retrieved 19 March 2022 Unity key in King s message The Phnom Penh Post 30 October 2014 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Cambodia Stop backsliding and expand freedom UN expert United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 6 October 2021 Retrieved 7 July 2022 a b Cambodian opposition figure faces royal insult charge Yahoo News 20 June 2018 Retrieved 26 March 2022 a b Rainsy faces up to five years in prison for insulting King The Phnom Penh Post 28 December 2020 Retrieved 26 March 2022 Sam Rainsy in hot water again for lese majeste Khmer Times 24 June 2021 Retrieved 26 March 2022 10 Years Into Sihamoni s Reign a Changed Palace Cambodia Daily 29 October 2014 Retrieved 25 April 2022 Cambodia s publicity shy king forced into center of political fracas Radio Free Asia 6 November 2022 Retrieved 1 April 2023 A Kent 2022 Covenantal Pluralism Resonances and Dissonances in Cambodia The Review of Faith amp International Affairs 20 1 11 26 DOI 10 1080 15570274 2022 2031054 Never Again The Legacy of Cambodia s Khmer Rouge Trial United States Institute of Peace 3 October 2022 Retrieved 13 April 2023 Cambodia s King Under Criticism for Not Intervening in Election Dispute Radio Free Asia 10 September 2013 Retrieved 1 April 2023 Cambodia s quiet king must find his political voice Asia Times 15 January 2019 Retrieved 9 August 2022 Southeast Asia An introductory history Allen and Unwin Book Publishers 2002 Retrieved 18 September 2021 Milton Osborne LOWY INSTITUTE 2022 Retrieved 7 May 2022 a b Cambodia s king seen as a prisoner in his palace The Seattle Times 29 May 2011 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Cambodian monarchy fading into history Bangkok Post 2 February 2013 Retrieved 8 July 2022 The monarchy s future public role To reign but not to rule PDF An International Review of Peace Initiatives Accord Issue 5 Safeguarding Peace Cambodia s Constitutional Challenge November 1998 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Cambodian king speaks of suicide over nation s woes AP News 13 October 1997 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Cambodia Says It Thwarted Coup by Prince Ex Official Los Angeles Times 4 July 1994 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Hun Sen the worms that must die Phnom Penh Post 1 December 1995 Retrieved 8 July 2022 Harm King over my dead body Phnom Penh Post 25 October 2018 Retrieved 8 July 2022 We must protect the throne says PM Hun Sen Khmer Times 29 December 2021 Retrieved 8 July 2022 King bestows Samdech title on Hun Neng posthumously Phnom Penh Post 8 May 2022 Retrieved 8 July 2022 a b As His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni celebrates his 68th birthday Khmer Times spoke with Pannsastra University of Cambodia s history professor Sombo Manara to reflect on the King s influence in Cambodia the Land of Khmers Khmer Times 14 May 2021 Retrieved 20 March 2022 Cambodia s king wins high marks after six months on throne Taipei Times 17 May 2005 Retrieved 5 August 2023 Cambodia Moving Beyond The Frontier International Monetary Fund 4 December 2013 Retrieved 4 September 2021 ASEAN 14 May 2021 We wish the happiest birthday to King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia Cherished and well respected by the people of Cambodia King Sihamoni shows his dignified and humble leadership by reaching out through a series of visits to the rural and local villages Tweet via Twitter non primary source needed HM King Norodom Sihamoni surprise people for his visited Meng Lyhour Archived from the original on 22 December 2021 Retrieved 4 September 2021 via YouTube Public Holidays 2021 National Bank of Cambodia 2021 Retrieved 18 September 2021 New note to mark King s coronation The Phnom Penh Post 7 October 2019 Retrieved 18 September 2021 The 15 000 Riel Commemorative Banknote Issued 29 October 2019 PDF Landqart 2019 Retrieved 18 September 2021 Banknotes in Circulation National Bank of Cambodia 2021 Retrieved 18 September 2021 J Wolfarth 2019 Lineage and Legitimacy Exploring Royal Familial Visual Configurations in Cambodia Hampshire College Michigan Publishing Retrieved 18 September 2021 Freedom in the World 2016 Cambodia Freedom House via UNHCR 14 July 2016 Retrieved 28 March 2023 Cambodia Passes Lese Majeste Law Voice of America English 16 February 2018 Lese majeste law now in effect The Phnom Penh Post 5 March 2018 Retrieved 20 March 2022 Cambodia parliament adopts lese majeste law prompting rights concerns Reuters 14 February 2018 Retrieved 7 July 2022 Cambodia end efforts to introduce lese majeste law International Commission of Jurists 2 February 2018 Retrieved 7 July 2022 Arrest for lese majeste violation The Phnom Penh Post 14 May 2018 Retrieved 26 March 2022 Trial begins for duo accused of lese majeste Khmer Times 17 February 2021 Retrieved 7 July 2022 Cambodia charges environment activists with insulting the king BBC News 22 June 2021 Retrieved 26 March 2022 Two Cambodians held on rare royal insults charge after Facebook posts Reuters 23 March 2023 Retrieved 28 March 2023 Cambodia jails 70 year old in first conviction for royal insult Reuters 5 October 2018 Retrieved 26 March 2022 Cambodian man jailed for insulting king in Facebook posts The Guardian 9 January 2019 Retrieved 26 March 2022 Cambodia hunting suspects over doctored porn image of king BBC News 2 January 2017 Retrieved 1 April 2022 About Cambodia The King of Cambodia Tourism of Cambodia 10 May 2020 Retrieved 7 September 2021 Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia 1993 as amended to 2018 UN Women 1 January 2018 Retrieved 7 September 2021 King Sihamoni arrives The Phnom Penh Post 22 October 2004 Retrieved 26 April 2022 City Cheers The Arrival Of New King Cambodia Daily 21 October 2004 Retrieved 3 April 2023 Hutt David The Real Danger of Cambodia s Gay King Episode thediplomat com Retrieved 24 June 2020 a b Reign of the quiet king The Phnom Penh Post 29 October 2014 Retrieved 8 September 2021 The Story of Cambodia s Ballet Dancing King The Culture Trip Ltd 17 January 2018 Retrieved 24 April 2022 Kate Won t Obey Wills In Wedding Vows Sky News 22 April 2011 Retrieved 8 September 2021 King s wedding snub denied The Phnom Penh Post 25 April 2011 Retrieved 8 September 2021 A King who is poor but with a golden heart Khmer Times 2 August 2021 Retrieved 22 September 2023 PM praises King for strong humanitarian support Khmer Times 27 November 2020 Retrieved 22 September 2023 King Sihamoni of Cambodia receives warm welcome in Prague Radio Prague 20 September 2006 The Only Monarch in the World Who Speaks Czech Fluently Tres Bohemes Everything Czech by Tres Bohemes 2 May 2017 Retrieved 24 June 2020 The Artiste The Ambassador The Prince The Phnom Penh Post 21 April 1995 Retrieved 6 September 2021 The Curious History Of Cambodia s Beloved Kings Asia s Monarchies Real Royalty Archived from the original on 22 December 2021 Retrieved 18 September 2021 via YouTube My Village at Sunset IMDb 1994 Retrieved 8 September 2021 Prachea Komar IMDb 1967 Retrieved 8 September 2021 a b link, wikipedia, wiki, book, books, library,

article

, read, download, free, free download, mp3, video, mp4, 3gp, jpg, jpeg, gif, png, picture, music, song, movie, book, game, games.