(Phnom Penh): Samdech Moha Montrei Kuy Sophal, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Royal Palace, urged Cambodian youth delegation attending the World Youth Festival 2026 in the Russian Federation, as well as scholarship awardees leaving to pursue Master's and Doctoral degrees in France and the Czech Republic, to work diligently to acquire knowledge and sharpen their skills in order to leverage their expertise and experience to serve and develop the nation.
This advice was delivered during a get-together between Samdech Kuy Sophal and approximately 45 members of the youth delegation and scholarship awardees on Wednesday (Sep. 9) at the Royal Palace.
The minister highlighted the indispensable value of knowledge in building and developing the nation to this day, emphasizing that human capital serves as the core force driving national progress. He recalled the sacrifices and leadership wisdom of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, who paved the way and created a peaceful environment for younger generations to access educational opportunities both domestically and abroad under the shade of peace. These opportunities allow the youth to absorb knowledge, refine their skills, and deepen their understanding of culture, civilization, geopolitics, economics, technology, environment, and global developments.
Samdech Kuy Sophal advised the youth to strictly adhere to the traditional Khmer principle of “Su-Chi-Pu-Li” (Listen, Think, Ask, Record), an ancient Khmer doctrine and a vital key to acquiring genuine knowledge. This entails focusing intently on listening to teachings and guidance, reflecting deeply to comprehend the underlying rationale, asking questions to resolve doubts and expand understanding, and recording key takeaways as lifelong intellectual assets.
The minister also instructed the youth on the essence of learning: observing comprehensively, studying subjects broadly and deeply, and mastering specific skills. He underscored that beyond acquiring knowledge and expertise, one must cultivate true proficiency, echoing the traditional Khmer proverb: "Knowing ten things moderately is not equal to mastering one."
He further stated that accumulated knowledge forms the root foundation for "Sammā-diṭṭhi"—meaning Right View or Correct Thought—which serves as the cornerstone of all success.
Samdech Moha Montrei shared his personal experience of serving at the Ministry of the Royal Palace for nearly 40 years under the direct guidance and leadership of the late Samdech Chaufea Veang Kong Sam Ol, former Minister of the Royal Palace and Supreme Privy Councilor to His Majesty the King. A key takeaway he shared was that wherever one works, one must commit wholeheartedly, serve leadership with complete dedication, and perform so capably as to become indispensable to the organization.
Additionally, Samdech advised the youth to adapt to the culture and context of their host countries while steadfastly upholding Khmer culture and civilization. This approach enables them to preserve their national identity while actively promoting the Royal Government’s achievements and national progress to the international community. He urged all youth to study hard to achieve success and ensure they return to serve the nation, whether in the public or private sector.
Samdech Kuy Sophal extended his warmest wishes to the youth delegation and scholarship awardees for safe travels, academic success, and a triumphant return with knowledge, experience, and honor for the motherland, as well as continued success in their future life paths, careers, and families.
In response, the youth delegates and scholarship awardees listened with deep attention, utmost respect, and high admiration for Samdech Kuy Sophal's wisdom, professional experience, and dedication, particularly his high valuation of youth education and his unwavering commitment to Nation, Religion, and King.
Learn more about the IFY 2026: http://en.fna.asia/21d36 and https://wyffest.com/en/news
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