Bun Rany Hun Sen Receives Honorary Doctorate

By Soy Sophea

The Cambodian Red Cross President, Bun Rany Hun Sen has been presented with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Cambodia, in recognition of Her tireless support for this humanitarian organization. The award ceremony took place on October 16, with Prime Minister Hun Sen in attendance to witness Her acceptance of the degree.

“We have achieved economic and social stability, but that does not mean that we have lifted all our peoples above the poverty line,” Bun Rany said after receiving the honor.

The First Lady continued, “We still face many issues that must be settled, and a priorities include poverty reduction, reducing the impact of climate change and combating deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS. These challenges cannot be confronted by any individual, community or single charitable institution.”

“What we should do is to strengthen the unity of humanity, work with the spirit of solidarity in our hearts and share the unity we find there to create a truly caring human culture. You see, a humane action is not preceded by scientific examination of the facts, nor a feasibility study into the technical aspects of generosity. For me, it is a simple act of enhancing the quality of life for the people of Cambodia.”

Bun Rany, a survivor of the worst ravages of the Khmer Rouge regime, was visibly moved as she knew that the intense pain in her heart was shared by many other Cambodians.

She added that the award recognized the work of the Cambodian Red Cross, a proactive and effective organization that strengthens all humanity by supporting its victims and weakest members.

The First Lady drew the clearest connection between a nation’s humanitarian drives and its claims to be truly civilized. In her work for the Cambodian Red Cross she said she found joy in interacting with intelligent people to strengthen the foundations of Cambodian culture and society; and in focusing on these goals, issues such as poverty, disease and inequality would necessarily fall away.

She stressed that encouraging the Cambodian’s natural tendency towards generosity, especially in these days of progress and stability was vital.

The ceremony also recognized two other recipients of honorary degrees from the University of Cambodia. They were Dr. Horst Posdorf, parliamentarian member of European Union and Jose. De Venecia, former president of Philippino Parliamentary, and Dr. Katsunari Nishihara. The three received honorary doctorate of International Relation.

Dr. Kao Kim Huorn, president of University of Cambodia and Dr. Haruhisa Handa, chancellor of University of Cambodia expressed his congratulations to the three new honorary doctors, all of whom are active in tackling social issues.//