[2] In premodern times, Oknha were envoys appointed by the king, who were expected to perform a wide variety of duties, take elaborate oaths of loyalty, and present the monarch with regular gifts.
While some Oknhas have broken the news with scandal ranging from rape[8] to land grabbing[9] and picking on ethnic minorities,[10] many others continue to display a great generosity, as in helping to provide vaccines during the coronavirus epidemic through significant donations.
It aims to maintain and enhance the supremacy of the title of Oknha and join the Royal Government in the country's socio-economic development, and social and humanitarian activities.
[17] By a decree promulgated in from April 1994, wealthy benefactors who gave at least $100,000 to the government and directed their money toward initiatives to help society can obtain the title of Okhna this way.
In April 2017, Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a new sub-decree raising the minimum donation required to receive the honorific title of Oknha from $100,000 to $500,000.
The worthy candidates then receive a first class Sathapana Cheat medal, often in the Royal Order of Monisaraphon, from the King and the royally-bestowed title of Oknha.
His royal title, "Oknha" or "Lord" in English, was bestowed upon him by the King of Cambodia due to his extensive works in helping to preserve Khmer literature, his writings and his poetry skills.