Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen recently showcased his affable nature by graciously inviting himself to any upcoming weddings of couples who met on the free buses provided by the Royal Government during Khmer New Year celebrations. The announcement was made while the PM presided over the inauguration ceremony of a new maternity building within the National Children’s Hospital on April 20, 2023.
Highlighting the success of the free bus initiative, the Prime Minister revealed that over 50,000 people utilized the public buses from Phnom Penh to their home provinces at no cost. He expressed his delight in seeing citizens take advantage of the Phnom Penh Capital Hall’s bus service, which aids in reducing transportation expenses.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to emphasize that the Phnom Penh Capital Administration has been offering free bus transportation for several years, beginning when Mr. Pa Socheatvong was the Governor of Phnom Penh. He noted that these bus rides had enabled some young men and women to meet and form connections, potentially leading to marriage in the future.
In a lighthearted moment, Samdech Hun Sen requested invitations to any weddings that result from couples meeting on these free bus rides, jokingly saying, “It is said that some people know each other on the bus when they go home together…if someone gets married, send me an invitation.”
To further commemorate these budding relationships, the Prime Minister dedicated the classic Sinn Sisamouth song “Moonlight on the Bus” as a symbol of unity between brides and grooms who first encountered one another on the buses during the New Year festivities.
This heartwarming gesture by the Cambodian Prime Minister demonstrates his close association and engagement with the nation’s citizens. His friendly demeanor and genuine connection with common people contribute to his widespread popularity and the continued peace and stability within the Kingdom.
Source: Khmer Times
