In the afternoon of October 11, 2008, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni presided over the traditional Water Festival opening ceremony attended by Samdech Akka Mohathammpothisal Chea Sim, Chairman of the Senate, Samdech Akka Mohaponheachakrey Heng Samrin, Chairman of the National Assembly, Samdech Akka Mohasenapadey Decho Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Cambodia, the Royal Family, the diplomatic corps, members of the Senate, of the National Assembly and of the Royal Government.