Caritas Australia has been awarded the Royal Order of Sahametrei from the Cambodian Government, presented by their partner organisation Caritas Cambodia.The Royal Order of Sahametrei recognises foreign parties who have done a great service to the people and Kingdom of Cambodia.

The Royal Order was presented to Ranmal Samarawickrama, Caritas Australia’s Asia Associate Director, by Rattana Kim, Executive Director of Caritas Cambodia.

The ceremony was attended by Vichheka Nay, Caritas Cambodia Deputy Director, Chanthea Nou, Asia Manager, Phaldyn Prum, Caritas Australia Program Manager and Joseph Komandachaly, Caritas Australia Regional Advisor.

“This award signifies deep gratitude from the Government and people of Cambodia towards the significant contribution of Caritas Australia in rural development and humanitarian aid,” said Rattana Kim, the Executive Director of Caritas Cambodia.

According to Chanthea Nou, “The Royal Order of Sahametrei is conferred primarily on foreigners who have rendered distinguished services to the King and to the people of Cambodia, particularly in the field of external relations and diplomatic services or, as a token of friendship.”

Caritas Australia is deeply honoured and thankful for the recognition that this award represents.

Pictured above: Vichheka Nay, Caritas Cambodia Deputy Director, Rattana Kim, Ranmal Samarawickrama, Chanthea Nou, Asia Manager, Phaldyn Prum, Caritas Australia Program Manager and Joseph Komandachaly, Caritas Australia Regional Advisor.

Photo coutesy of Caritas Cambodia

To find out more about our work in Cambodia you can visit our website: https://www.caritas.org.au/about/where-we-work/cambodia/