Birthday of the Queen Mother
June 18, Wednesday
Who is Queen Mother Norodom Monineath
The Queen Mother was born on June 18, 1936, in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) under the name Paule-Monique Izzi. Her father was a French banker, and her mother was a native of Phnom Penh. In 1951, she met Prince Norodom Sihanouk at a beauty contest, where she won first prize. They began living together in 1952 and officially married in 1955. From 1993 to 2004, she served as the Queen Consort of Cambodia, and after her husband’s abdication in 2004, she became the Queen Mother.
The Queen Mother is actively involved in charitable work, supporting organizations focused on healthcare, education, and social welfare. She is also known for her participation in cultural and public events aimed at promoting national unity and preserving Cambodia’s cultural heritage.
Celebration traditions
On this day, various events take place across the country:
* ceremonial prayers in Buddhist temples;
* cultural performances and concerts;
* charity drives and community initiatives.
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, becomes the center of the celebration, where the main events take place with the participation of the royal family and government officials.
The Queen Mother's Birthday is not only a time to show respect and gratitude for her contributions to the nation but also a moment for Cambodians to come together in celebration of national pride and cultural heritage.