PHNOM PENH: Cambodian runner Bou Samnang has gained international praise for her inspiring performance at the 2023 SEA Games, appearing in the New York Times and other major international news outlets.

Meeting with athletes who are set to compete in the 12th ASEAN Para Games in June, Prime Minister Hun Sen spoke about the international attention Cambodia gained by hosting the SEA Games in May, and lauded athletes such as Bou Samnang for their heroic efforts.

On the afternoon of May 26, he said, “Although [Bou Samnang] did not win a gold medal, she won a world-class medal from the people of the world.”

Bou Samnang's perseverance not only garnered a global audience, but also made the world aware of the high-performance level of ability of Cambodian athletes.