Quote: The former King of Cambodia granted advice to the new King, Norodom Sihamoni: Live a clean, uncorrupted life as a patriot and leader

Courtesy The Phnom Penh Post News May 16, 2009

 

<< Words of wisdom from the King-Father [Norodom Sihanouk] to the new King [his son Norodom Sihamoni]

During his cornonation address, King Norodom Sihamoni shared the advice he received from his father, King Norodom Sihanouk, when he was elected King.

The following is an extract:
"But, my son, what you should bear in mind above everything else is this: to be a pure patriot you must always be "clean," that is to say uncorrupted. In all that you do, you must only think of the higher and vital interests of the Homeland, the Nation and the people. You must banish favoritism and injustice, and prevent members of the family, courtiers and flatterers from using you for their own interests. You must always give priority to the poorer classes, those who suffer and truly deserve assistance. And last but not least, you must realize that to be a great King, you must be very humble before the People. As a King, one is never be the master of the country, the Nation and the People. One is - and always will be - their SERVANT in all circumstances."