Samdech (Khmer: សម្តេច, UNGEGN: Sâmdéch, ALA-LC: Samṭec [sɑmɗac]) is a Cambodian honorific bestowed by the King of Cambodia to individuals deemed to have made significant contributions to the nation. It roughly translates as "lord".[1] It is often accompanied by a longer title; for instance, Prime Minister Hun Sen's full title is Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen (meaning "Lord Supreme Military Commander Hun Sen").[2] Some members of the royal family and religious leaders also have "Samdech" as part of their title.[3][4] In July 2016, the government ordered the media to use leaders' full titles.[1]
The title used to be a rarity as under King Norodom Sihanouk's first reign (1941–1955), only four politicians had received the title including Penn Nouth, Nhiek Tioulong, Son Sann, and Chau Sen Cocsal Chhum, all of whom have served as prime minister.[5]
- ^ a b "In a Title Fight, Phnom Penh Orders the Press to Use 'Samdech' for Top Government Officials". Radio Free Asia. 12 May 2016. Retrieved 27 June 2020.
- ^ "Welcome, Lord Prime Minister: Cambodian media told to use leader's full royal title". The Guardian. 12 May 2016. Retrieved 27 June 2020.
- ^ "Statement by His Royal Highness Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh The First Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia". asean.org. Retrieved 27 June 2020.
- ^ "Chuon Nath: Guardian of Cambodian culture". Phnom Penh Post. 8 April 2011.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
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