The Italian Cambodian Business Association (ItaCham) is deeply honoured to announce the appointment of His Royal Highness Prince Sisowath Ravivaddhana Monipong as an Honorary Member.
Prince Ravivaddhana Monipong, born in Phnom Penh and raised in France, has dedicated his life to promoting Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage, with a particular focus on Italy. A refined scholar of Southeast Asian history and culture, Prince Ravi has worked tirelessly with international organizations such as the United Nations and with the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism. His profound knowledge, unwavering commitment, and elegant diplomacy have made him an extraordinary ambassador of Cambodian culture to the world.
Throughout his career, Prince Ravi, affectionately known as the ‘Italian Prince’, has embodied a rare combination of intellectual brilliance, cultural sensitivity, and personal grace. His tireless efforts to build bridges between nations have been marked not only by his education and expertise but also by his remarkable ability to connect people with warmth, wisdom, and impeccable elegance. His work stands as a testament to the enduring power of culture as a means of fostering dialogue and understanding between countries.
Among his many contributions, we are proud to highlight his pivotal role in the realization of Madama Butterfly — the first ever full opera production staged in Phnom Penh. As Artistic Director of this historic event, Prince Ravi worked alongside Gabriele Faja, Chairman of ItaCham and currently Chairman of EuroCham Cambodia, who led the production. The opera, performed at Koh Pich Theatre in December 2023, brought together over 70 international and Cambodian artists and symbolized a unique encounter between Italian operatic tradition and Cambodian cultural expression, including a performance by the Royal Ballet of Cambodia. This exceptional project would not have been possible without Prince Ravi’s vision, hard work, and deep commitment to excellence.
Thanks to his guidance, the production of Madama Butterfly became more than a performance — it became a cultural milestone, fulfilling a long-held dream of Princess Norodom Buppha Devi to integrate Cambodian dance and Western opera. The event attracted more than 1,800 attendees and left an indelible mark on Cambodia’s cultural landscape. Today, Prince Ravi continues to support and inspire initiatives that strengthen the bonds between Italy and Cambodia. His enduring dedication, wisdom, and gracious spirit are a source of pride and inspiration for ItaCham and for all those who believe in the power of cultural diplomacy.
We are truly privileged to welcome His Royal Highness Prince Sisowath Ravivaddhana Monipong into the ItaCham family and we look forward to working together to further deepen the friendship between Italy and Cambodia.
