AKP Phnom Penh, February 27, 2026 --

His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, and Her Majesty Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk departed this morning for Beijing for their routine medical checkup. 

The monarchs were seen off at Techo International Airport by Senate President Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen and his spouse, Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Red Cross; National Assembly President Samdech Maha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary; Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet and his spouse, Lok Chumteav Dr. Pich Chanmony Hun Manet, and many other high-ranking officials. 

Chinese Ambassador to Cambodia H.E. Wang Wenbin was also present on the occasion.

In a royal message addressed to his compatriots yesterday, His Majesty the King stated that he and the Queen Mother would be absent from the country starting Feb. 27 to undergo medical examinations in the Chinese capital.

During the King's absence, Samdech Techo Hun Sen, also President of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King, will serve as the acting Head of State.

The Cambodian royals generally travel to China twice a year for medical checkups.

His Majesty the King expressed his gratitude to the nation’s Buddhist leadership and citizens, offering blessings of longevity and health before his departure.

By Heng Panha