King Sihamoni to return after cancer care

Cambodia’s King Norodom Sihamoni is set to return home next week following successful medical treatment in Beijing, bringing relief to a nation that has closely followed his health.

Senate spokesperson Chea Thyrith confirmed on Friday that the monarch, accompanied by Queen Mother Norodom Monineath, will arrive back in Phnom Penh on 3 July. He said the King’s condition has “improved and returned to normal” after months of care in China, describing the news as reassuring for Cambodians.

The King, 72, travelled to Beijing on 27 February for routine medical examinations, a practice he has followed for years. His frequent trips to China reflect both the country’s advanced medical facilities and the close ties between the Cambodian royal family and Beijing.

During his stay, senior leaders including Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet monitored his progress. Hun Sen’s recent visit to China underscored the importance of the King’s recovery, with officials emphasising the stability of the monarchy.

King Sihamoni’s health has long been a matter of public concern. Earlier this year, he revealed he was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, prompting widespread messages of support from citizens and foreign embassies alike. His absence during major national holidays heightened anxiety, though palace officials consistently reassured the public.

The King, who ascended the throne in 2004, is widely respected for his ceremonial role and dedication to cultural affairs. His return marks not only a personal recovery but also a symbolic moment for Cambodia, reinforcing continuity at the heart of its constitutional monarchy.

As the country prepares to welcome him back, the episode highlights both the vulnerability of ageing leaders and the enduring bond between Cambodia and China, where the monarch has repeatedly sought medical care. For Cambodians, the King’s safe return is a moment of relief and renewed confidence in the stability of the nation.

-2026-06-29