PHNOM PENH: Prime Minister Hun Sen and First Lady Bun Rany praised the efforts of Bou Samnang, who finished last in the 5,000 meter race during a torrential downpour at the SEA Games this week. Despite her clear exhaustion and high emotions, the athlete’s commitment to finish the race has garnered attention from the public and officials for her display of determination.

Bou Samnang ran with tears in her eyes as a group of spectators cheered her on. The moment was watched by PM Hun Sen and his wife, who were moved to give the athlete $10,000 for her efforts. The PM said in a telegram message, "Even though I am attending the ASEAN Summit in Indonesia, I continue to watch the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia. The interesting thing is that Bou Samnang ran in the rain until the end, even though she was not ranked. My wife and I want to encourage her dedication by donating $10,000.” He then asked his assistant Seng Teang to personally deliver the money to Bou Samnang.

In addition to the donation from the Prime Minister on the morning of May 10, Minister of Information, Khieu Kanharith paid Bou Samnang a courtesy call during which he personally gave her one million riels in addition to seven million riels donated by various institutions. Okna Srey Chanthan also gave the athlete five million riels to show his appreciation.