It’s official. The first woman outside of the royal family to receive the honorary “Samdech” title, joining the likes of Prime Minister Hun Sen, is Hun Sen’s wife, Bun Rany.

Or to go by her new full name, granted by Royal Decree by King Sihamoni yesterday to mark International Red Cross Day, Samdech Kite Phretibandit Bun Rany Hun Sen.

“She has lead the CRC with the support of national and international communities and has an ability to provide relief to victims of natural disasters on time,” Sihamoni’s decree read.

About 10,000 government officials, diplomats, business owners, and students gathered at the CRC headquarters in Phnom Penh to mark the 150th  anniversary of the International Red Cross. At the event, Hun Sen thanked Sihamoni for bestowing the title, and reminisced on their modest roots.

 “I would like to express an appreciation, along with my lovely wife who received this highest title. And it may be the  first time in history that a husband and wife from farmer families have received the highest title in the country.”