Time will tell. In the meantime, however, he doesn't pay his own police and military, who are allegedly responsible for frequent robberies. Banditry and violence continue in Phnom Penh and the countryside, to supplement incomes rather than for political reasons. Much of Cambodia's wealth is still generated through corruption and illegal business, which flourished in the disarray of war. Khmers are not afraid to flaunt their wealth with fancy cars, clothes, and other status symbols.
Image is very important.
Khmers gain power, respect, and recognition with money. Urban, mainstream Cambodia is now becoming infatuated with Western materialism. The Khmer cultural fabric is woven in the countryside, not in Phnom Penh. Life in the provinces reflects the way most Khmers live. Traditional values prevail, and one witnesses none of the speed, stress, or pollution of Phnom Penh.