Her Majesty Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk generously presented 10 historically significant books to The Phnom Penh Poston January 11, 2024.

Including  biographies, journals, photography and chronicles of Her Majesty, the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk and current King Norodom Sihamoni,the publications cover various aspects of their lives, such aspublic appearances,diplomatic engagements and royal functions.

They also detailtheir humanitarian efforts,support of the arts, cultural preservation efforts, promotion of education and environmental advocacy, as well as their healthcare initiatives and commemorative activities.
These books are not only incredible sources of information and inspiration, but also symbols of Her Majesty's dedication to the nation and its heritage. 

They also showcase the friendship and cooperation between the Kingdom and other countries, as well as reflect the history and culture of Cambodia,and the royal family's role and its achievements.

This gracious gesture not only underscores the Queen Mother's dedication to the nation's heritage, but also provides invaluable insights into the Royal Family's pivotal role in shaping modern Cambodia.

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The Queen Mother: An Eventful Life

"The Queen Mother: An Eventful Life," penned by Ambassador Julio A Jeldres,is an affectionate look back at the life and times ofQueen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk as she celebrated her 80th birthday in 2016.
Available in English at 76pages and Khmer at 80, itspublication intwo languages allows for a wider audience to delve into the intricate details of the life of Her Majesty. 

The author in his foreword says the book, rather than being just a biography,is rather "an attempt to portraythe devotion and commitment toduty of this remarkable lady" as she reached such an impressive milestone.

"Age hasn't dimmed Her Majesty's effervescence nor diminished her remarkable achievements", he writes about the Queen Mother, who despite "despite war and social upheaval ... remained resolute in her loyalty, devotion and commitment to the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk ... and to Cambodia and her people".

With her life reflecting dignity with the common touch, national attention has been drawntowards her both in moments of grief and joy, Jeldres adds, while in today's fast-paced society, the Queen Motherreassures as sheembodies the gracious confidence of the old Cambodia.

Her "dignified style ... exemplifies the beauty of the Cambodian national dress", while following the passing of the King Father in 2012, Her Majesty's presence outside the Royal Palacenotably"encapsulated the somber mood of the entire country", her presence "render[ing] a moment of profound poignancy".

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"Witness to History – The Journal of Cambodia’s Queen Mother"

Compiled by the Documentation Center of Cambodia,"Witness to History – The Journal of Cambodia’s Queen Mother", is a profound account of the Queen Mother's observations and experiences. 

The 99-page English and 118-page Khmer editions document her life alongside the late King Father Norodom Sihanouk during their time in the National United Front of Kampuchea'sliberated zone in 1973. 

Providing a personal perspective of Cambodia during a time of conflict, Her Majesty's writings capture the essence of a journey she undertook at the time with the King Father.

"Witness to History"is available free of charge, with plans for 35,000 copies to be printedannually from 2023 to 2025​.

1922-2022 Centenary of the Birth/2012-2022 Tenth Anniversary of the Passing Away 

Aphotographic journey honouring King Father Norodom Sihanoukcommemorates the 100th anniversary of his birth. A centennial tribute,the 132-page book features mostly photographs with captions in Khmer, English and French. 

It ably captures one memorable eventorganised by Vice President Wang Qishan of China and held on September 15, 2022, in Beijing that celebrated the King Father's revered status in both Cambodia and China, and his contributions to China-Cambodia relations. 

King Norodom Sihamoni and Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk expressed gratitude for China's support and eagerness to enhance cooperation, with hope for an enduring friendship between the two countries.

The Cambodian King and the Queen Mother also presided over a religious ceremony commemoratingthe 100th anniversary of thebirth and 10th of the passing of the revered King Father Norodom Sihanoukat the Royal Palace on October 15, 2022. 

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"Royal Activities and Achievements"

The most extensive part of the donation comprises four volumes of "Royal Activities and Achievements of Her Majesty QueenMother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk of Cambodia". 

These books, covering the periods from 2013 to 2022, are a testament to the Queen Mother's unwavering commitment to Cambodia. 

Each edition, meticulously compiled, highlights her engagements and contributions both in the capital and across the provinces, serving as a chronicle of her dedication to the Kingdom and its people. 

Her Majesty's continuous involvement in avariety of charitable and humanitarian initiatives across Cambodia, supporting healthcare, education and welfare programmes are spotlighted, as is her active promotionof and participation in events aimed at preserving and celebrating the Kingdom's culture and heritage.

The books record the Queen Mother's numerous public appearances at national events and ceremonies, reinforcing her role as a figure of national unity and continuity, while her many diplomatic engagements, including meeting with foreign dignitaries and representing Cambodia at international forums, are also highlighted.

QueenMother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk participated in significant royal ceremonies, including traditional festivals and celebrations, maintaining the cultural and historical traditions of the Cambodian monarchy.

She encouraged and supported the arts in Cambodia, including traditional Khmer performances and contemporary artistic expressions, and advocated for educational development, with initiatives to improve literacy andaccess to education, especially for underprivileged communities.

Her Majesty's involvement in conservation efforts reflect a growing global awareness of environmental issues, while healthcare initiatives focused on improving health services and access, particularly in rural areas.

These activities – including the commemorating of significant historical events and anniversaries contributing to the national narrative of Cambodia –demonstrate the QueenMother's commitment to the welfare and cultural heritage of Cambodia.

They alsohighlight her important role in diplomatic relations, and her contributions to the social and economic development of the country.

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The 70th Birthday of His Majesty Norodom Sihamoni 

This101-page book commemorating the 70th birthday of King Norodom Sihamoni, celebrated on May 13-14, 2023, primarily features a stunning collection of photographs from the festivities. 

These images vividly capture the grandeur and spirit of the celebrations, offering readers a visual journey through the events that marked this significant milestone in the King's life.

Withthese booksholding suchsignificant value, The Phnom Penh Post – the oldest independent newspaper in Cambodia – would like to express profound gratitude to Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanoukfor her generous donation.

The books serve as a living and inspiring testament to Her Majesty'sdedication, with her devotion and commitment toduty resonating beyond Cambodia to havean effect on political leaders, intellectuals and people worldwide.

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