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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 10, 2025

Cambodia has intensified its nationwide campaign against technology-related crimes, particularly online scams that have affected public trust and security. In this context, the Phnom Penh Municipal Court recently handled another major case that highlights the country’s determination to crack down ...Read more

Cambodia has intensified its nationwide campaign against technology-related crimes, particularly online scams that have affected public trust and security. In this context, the Phnom Penh Municipal Court recently handled another major case that highlights the country’s determination to crack down on cybercrime.

Phnom Penh Court Detains Chinese National for Online Scam Case

What Happened? When?

On October 7, 2025, Hok Pov, the investigating judge at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court, ordered the detention of Cai Jincheng, a Chinese national, on charges of aggravated fraud (as a designated group) under Articles 377 and 380 of Cambodia’s Criminal Code. Cai is being held at Correctional Center 1 while awaiting further legal proceedings.

Phnom Penh Municipal Court, ordered the detention of Cai Jincheng, a Chinese national, on charges of aggravated fraud (as a designated group) under Articles 377 and 380 of Cambodia’s Criminal Code
Phnom Penh Municipal Court, ordered the detention of Cai Jincheng, a Chinese national, on charges of aggravated fraud (as a designated group) under Articles 377 and 380 of Cambodia’s Criminal Code

Who Was Involved?

The arrest stemmed from a joint operation on October 3, 2025, targeting an illegal online scam network operating from a villa in Factory Village, Sangkat Kok Khleang, Khan Sen Sok, Phnom Penh. Cambodian authorities apprehended 18 Chinese nationals, including two women, believed to be involved in the online scam. Following the investigation, 17 suspects were deported, while Cai Jincheng was remanded in custody for further legal action.

Authorities confiscated 16 passports, 16 all-in-one computers, and 11 laptops during the operation—key evidence pointing to organized cybercrime activity.

Solutions

This arrest is part of Cambodia’s ongoing nationwide campaign against online fraud, launched on July 14, 2025, under the guidance of the Commission for Combating Cybercrime (C.B.C.). Between June 27 and October 2025, Cambodian authorities cracked down on more than 3,000 suspects, mostly foreigners, deporting around 2,500 individuals and referring 70 key ringleaders to the court for prosecution.

These efforts demonstrate Cambodia’s commitment to maintaining public safety and order by addressing the root causes of cross-border technology crimes.

Read more: Cambodia Strengthens Cybersecurity to Protect Digital Society

What Can You Learn and How to Protect Yourself?

This case serves as a reminder for the public to remain vigilant against online fraud. Avoid sharing personal or banking information on unverified websites, and always verify the authenticity of digital platforms before making transactions. Report suspicious online activities to local authorities or the Cybercrime Commission for prompt action.

Conclusion

The detention of Cai Jincheng underscores Cambodia’s zero-tolerance policy toward cybercriminal networks and its active cooperation with international partners in combating online fraud. The government’s continued vigilance and enforcement efforts aim to make Cambodia’s digital environment safer for citizens and investors alike.

Source: https://www.information.gov.kh/articles/171700?

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 10, 2025In:

Cambodia Targets 5% Economic Growth in 2025: Deputy PM. Cambodia’s economy is projected to grow by 5 percent in 2025, a slight decrease from 6 percent in 2024, according to Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth. Speaking at the official launch ...Read more

Cambodia Targets 5% Economic Growth in 2025: Deputy PM. Cambodia’s economy is projected to grow by 5 percent in 2025, a slight decrease from 6 percent in 2024, according to Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth.

Speaking at the official launch of the National Strategic Development Plan on Thursday, Vissoth explained that the slower pace of growth is linked to external pressures, notably, the ongoing border tension with Thailand and the 19-percent tariff recently imposed by the United States on Cambodian exports.

“On Aug. 1, the United States imposed a 19 per cent tariff on all goods imported from Cambodia,” he noted, emphasizing how such trade measures have dampened the nation’s economic momentum.

What’s Driving Cambodia’s 5% Economic Growth Forecast for 2025?
What’s Driving Cambodia’s 5% Economic Growth Forecast for 2025?

Despite these challenges, Cambodia’s GDP per capita is expected to increase from $2,520 in 2023 to $2,713 in 2024, reaching nearly $3,000 by 2025.

The deputy prime minister reaffirmed that the economy’s main drivers remain consistent — garment, footwear, and travel goods exports, along with tourism, agriculture, real estate, and construction.

A report by the Ministry of Economy and Finance projects that in 2025, the industrial sector (including garments, non-garment manufacturing, and construction) will expand by 7.1 percent. The service sector, covering tourism, transport, telecommunications, trade, and real estate, is expected to grow by 3.8 percent, while agriculture is set to rise by 0.9 percent.

Source: Xinhua

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 10, 2025In:

Picasso City Garden’s upcoming initial public offering (IPO) is shaping up to be more than a routine listing—it could become a defining moment for the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX). The debut will test whether the local bourse can reignite investor ...Read more

Picasso City Garden’s upcoming initial public offering (IPO) is shaping up to be more than a routine listing—it could become a defining moment for the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX). The debut will test whether the local bourse can reignite investor enthusiasm or continue its struggle with stagnation.

Cambodia’s stock exchange has long faced challenges, marked by limited listings and sluggish trading activity. Now, the spotlight is on Picasso City Garden, a real estate developer preparing to list on the CSX Growth Board at USD 1.20 (KHR 4,800) per share. The timing aligns with the launch of the ACLEDA Sub-Bond 2.0, leaving many investors wondering whether these new offerings can inject fresh life into a market still grappling with weak momentum.

Picasso City Garden’s IPO

A Market Waiting for Its Moment

Since its inception more than a decade ago, the CSX has yet to achieve the traction seen in neighboring markets. According to the Securities Market Statistics report, only 11 companies have gone public, raising a total of USD 128.9 million. The exchange’s most active period was between 2018 and 2019, fueled by Cambodia’s rapid growth across construction, real estate, credit, and tourism. However, the pandemic disrupted this progress, halting much of the earlier momentum.

Even amid economic uncertainty, there were bright spots. In 2020, ACLEDA Bank (ABC) successfully went public, attracting significant investor attention. More recently, Cellcard and Mengly J. Quach Education joined the exchange in 2023, signaling continued interest but still short of the robust activity needed to strengthen the CSX’s foundation.

New Listings Amid Persistent Challenges

The Picasso City Garden IPO is part of renewed efforts to revitalize the stock market. The CSX currently operates two boards: the Main Board, which hosts nine companies, and the Growth Board, where Picasso will make its debut. The IPO offers 10 million shares—representing 20% of the company’s equity—and promises a guaranteed annual dividend yield of 7% for the first five years.

Picasso follows in the footsteps of JSL, which listed in 2022 at USD 0.467 (KHR 1,900) per share and has since seen its price rise by nearly 46% to KHR 2,770. That success suggests potential for real estate firms on the Growth Board. Still, questions remain: will Picasso sustain this upward trend or encounter the same obstacles that have restrained overall market growth?

A Mixed Economic Landscape

The broader economic environment adds uncertainty. The World Bank projects Cambodia’s GDP growth at just 4.0% in 2025, far below the double-digit expansion of past years. Foreign direct investment (FDI) has declined to USD 630 million, restricting capital flows to key sectors such as infrastructure and real estate. Although tourism is showing signs of recovery with 1.3 million arrivals so far, the figures remain below pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, non-performing loans have risen to 7.9% in the banking sector and 9.0% in microfinance, while inflation stands at 3.7%. For investors, these indicators suggest a cautious outlook—particularly for real estate-linked ventures.

Investor Sentiment and Market Outlook

Investor reactions to Picasso’s IPO could take several forms. On one hand, a soft economic backdrop and cooling property market may temper enthusiasm. On the other, the new listing could energize a market hungry for momentum—much like ACLEDA Bank’s listing did in 2020, when it attracted strong participation despite economic headwinds.

Market analyst Seang Bot offered a cautiously optimistic view, noting, “These IPOs could encourage other companies to list, boosting trading volumes and attracting new investors.” Yet he also warned that ongoing uncertainty and border tensions with Thailand might lead to more conservative investor behavior. “Despite these challenges, if Picasso City Garden can demonstrate solid growth potential and offer reliable dividends, it will likely find a pool of buyers willing to take the risk,” he added.

A Defining Test for CSX

Picasso’s IPO marks a crucial inflection point for the Cambodia Securities Exchange. Its success or failure could set the tone for the future of Cambodia’s capital markets in 2025 and beyond. A strong debut could restore investor confidence and usher in a new wave of listings. Conversely, if the IPO falters, the CSX may continue to lag behind its regional peers.

The next few months will determine whether Cambodia’s stock market can turn the corner or remain stuck in a prolonged wait for revival.

Source: Khmer Times

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 7, 2025

Cambodia is enhancing its official food safety inspection systems in preparation for a European Union (EU) audit next year. This effort aims to facilitate the registration of Cambodian fisheries enterprises for exports to the EU and to expand access to ...Read more

Cambodia is enhancing its official food safety inspection systems in preparation for a European Union (EU) audit next year. This effort aims to facilitate the registration of Cambodian fisheries enterprises for exports to the EU and to expand access to other international markets.

A major priority is preparing for the audit by the European Union’s Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), scheduled for 2026. This assessment will play a crucial role in enabling Cambodian fisheries enterprises to meet EU export requirements.

How Will EU Audits Boost Cambodia’s Fisheries Exports?

The Fisheries Administration (FiA) of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries is also holding discussions on signing memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with other ASEAN member states to strengthen regional trade cooperation.

These developments were highlighted in a joint press release by the Fisheries Administration, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the European Union following a project closing workshop for the initial outcomes of the Post-harvest Fisheries Development Project (CAPFISH-Capture) held on Monday, October 6.

Mr. Khuon Evirat, Acting Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Cambodia, emphasized the significance of the upcoming DG SANTE audit, stating:
“Successfully passing this audit will open up new market opportunities for fisheries products and strengthen Cambodia’s reputation as a supplier of quality and safe fisheries products.”

The workshop, chaired by Mr. Prak David, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Agriculture, highlighted the remarkable achievements of the CAPFISH-Capture project and its transformative impact on Cambodia’s fisheries sector.

As the project nears completion in December 2025, it has made notable progress in establishing and implementing a robust food safety monitoring system within the fisheries sector. The Ministry of Agriculture reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring food security, community well-being, and inclusive economic growth.

Funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by the Fisheries Administration and UNIDO, the project aligns with international food safety standards. This alignment opens the door for Cambodian fisheries products to reach more international markets, thereby contributing to national economic growth.

Mr. Pum Sotha, Royal Government Delegate in Charge and Head of the Fisheries Administration, stated that the project’s outcomes extend beyond certification systems and technical guidelines:
“The project leaves a legacy of change and a symbol of hope for a bright future for Cambodia’s fisheries sector.”

UNIDO has pledged continued support for Cambodia in achieving global standards and expanding market access.

Mr. Sok Narin, UNIDO Country Representative in Cambodia, noted that Cambodia’s progress reflects strong leadership and collaboration across all levels of stakeholders.
“We are building a resilient and thriving fisheries sector, capable of competing in the international market, driven by a spirit of solidarity,” he said.

Even after the project concludes, efforts to improve food safety compliance in the fisheries processing sector and enhance export readiness will continue. With sustained focus, Cambodia has the potential to become a regional leader in responsible fisheries management.

The project also supported the development and implementation of an official inspection system for Cambodian fisheries products, along with several technical guidelines to strengthen industry-wide quality assurance.

As a result, 22 Cambodian fisheries enterprises have been certified under the Cambodian Quality System (CQS), boosting consumer confidence in both domestic and international markets. Additionally, nine enterprises are utilizing the CamTrace digital traceability system, which meets international traceability standards.

Further legislative and regulatory progress is expected soon. Notably, the new Fisheries Law, adopted in June 2025, aims to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine resources, reinforcing Cambodia’s commitment to environmental sustainability and international trade readiness.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 6, 2025

Department of Anti-Technology Crimes Cracks Down on Bank Account Fraud Involving QR Code Currency Conversion. According to the directive of His Excellency General Sar Thet, Commissioner-General of the National Police, and under the instructions of His Excellency Lieutenant General Sar Thet, ...Read more

Department of Anti-Technology Crimes Cracks Down on Bank Account Fraud Involving QR Code Currency Conversion.

According to the directive of His Excellency General Sar Thet, Commissioner-General of the National Police, and under the instructions of His Excellency Lieutenant General Sar Thet, Deputy Commissioner-General of the National Police, on October 3, 2025, the Department of Anti-Technology Crimes, in cooperation with representatives from several banks, successfully suppressed a case of bank account fraud involving the falsification of QR codes from Riel to U.S. Dollars.

Department of Anti-Technology Crimes Cracks Down on Bank Account Fraud Involving QR Code Currency Conversion
Department of Anti-Technology Crimes Cracks Down on Bank Account Fraud Involving QR Code Currency Conversion

With the coordination of the Prosecutor Attached to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court, the department arrested one suspect, identified as Mr. Sor Sor, a Cambodian male. Investigation revealed that the suspect, who worked as a tricycle driver, had manipulated QR codes by altering the currency from Riel to U.S. Dollars in order to defraud foreign visitors, changing 7,200 riels into 7,200 dollars.

The suspect has been referred by the Department of Case Preparation to the Prosecutor Attached to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court for further legal proceedings.

The Department would like to remind the public to remain vigilant and thoroughly verify details when transferring or receiving money and making payments via QR codes in either Riel or U.S. Dollar accounts, to avoid confusion and potential financial loss.

Source: Anti Cyber Crime Department

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 6, 2025In:

Cambodia’s Digital Social Protection Platform: A Leap Toward Smarter, Inclusive Social Welfare In a landmark move toward a more connected and transparent social welfare system, Cambodia has officially unveiled its Digital Social Protection Platform (DSPP), a transformative digital ecosystem designed to ...Read more

Cambodia’s Digital Social Protection Platform: A Leap Toward Smarter, Inclusive Social Welfare

In a landmark move toward a more connected and transparent social welfare system, Cambodia has officially unveiled its Digital Social Protection Platform (DSPP), a transformative digital ecosystem designed to unify and modernize the country’s social protection services. The launch ceremony, held in Phnom Penh on October 6, 2025, was presided over by Professor Aun Pornmoniroth, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economy and Finance, and Chairman of the National Council for Social Protection. The event drew over 350 key stakeholders in person from ministers and ambassadors to civil society leaders and was virtually joined by more than 5,000 local officials and program officers nationwide.

Cambodia’s Digital Social Protection Platform
Cambodia’s Digital Social Protection Platform

The DSPP marks a critical step in Cambodia’s ongoing journey toward a digital government, one that bridges technology with social equity. Dr. Chan Narith, Secretary-General of the National Council for Social Protection, explained that the initiative stems from a long-term vision to make social protection “more efficient, integrated, and user-friendly,” emphasizing a “harmonization” approach instead of rigid “standardization.” Over years of development, this concept evolved into the platform launched today the Cambodia Digital Social Protection System, a unified mechanism designed to simplify access, enhance coordination, and eliminate duplication across the country’s diverse social programs.

What is Digital Social Protection Platform (DSPP)?

The Digital Social Protection Platform (DSPP) is Cambodia’s unified digital system that integrates all social protection programs into one platform. It manages citizen registration, verifies beneficiary identities, and streamlines cash assistance and welfare services using technologies like digital IDs, facial and fingerprint scans, and real-time data sharing, making social support more efficient, transparent, and accessible nationwide.

At its core, the DSPP serves as a centralized, interoperable platform for registering and verifying citizens’ identities under the nation’s social protection framework. It brings together multiple government-led programs from cash assistance for pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, to scholarship and HIV support programs. It also integrates systems for poor household identification, disability ID cards, and veteran social benefits. This harmonized approach not only ensures that assistance reaches the right people at the right time but also strengthens accountability and transparency in public service delivery.

A key innovation of the DSPP is its “Fast Search” function, which allows officers to instantly verify individuals using a Social Protection Identification Number (SPID). This feature can cross-check information using various ID sources the national ID card, Equity Card, disability ID, or National Social Security Card and even through facial or fingerprint scans. The platform also leverages optical character recognition (OCR) technology to automatically extract information from Khmer national ID cards, cutting down manual data entry and improving accuracy. Commune and sangkat officials now receive real-time notifications of registration updates, enabling faster review and approval of applications a milestone in digital efficiency at the grassroots level.

Reflecting on the achievement, Professor Aun Pornmoniroth described the platform as “a joint achievement that has built an important foundation in the development and implementation of the Royal Government’s National Social Protection Policy.” He highlighted that the project not only provides digital tools for program officers at the sub-national level but also empowers local administrations through a nationwide distribution of modern equipment from laptops and fingerprint scanners to mobile printers and tablets. This rollout represents Cambodia’s tangible progress in modernizing its welfare administration from the ground up, ensuring that digital transformation reaches even the most rural communities.

Ultimately, Cambodia’s Digital Social Protection Platform is more than a technological upgradet it’s a symbol of progress, equity, and innovation. It aligns with the nation’s vision of inclusive growth, where every citizen, regardless of their background, can access support through a system that is faster, fairer, and future-ready. The platform stands as a bold statement that Cambodia is not just digitizing data, it is digitizing dignity, ensuring that social protection keeps pace with the country’s aspirations for a smarter, more compassionate society.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 2, 2025In:

Marriage proposals are among the most memorable milestones in a couple’s journey together. Choosing the right place not only sets the tone but also transforms a simple question — “Will you be mine?” — into an unforgettable story that can ...Read more

Marriage proposals are among the most memorable milestones in a couple’s journey together. Choosing the right place not only sets the tone but also transforms a simple question — “Will you be mine?” — into an unforgettable story that can be cherished forever. Over the years, Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, with its timeless beauty and cultural significance, has stepped into the spotlight as one of the world’s most enchanting backdrops for proposals.

From awe-inspiring sunrises to its legendary status in film and folklore, Angkor Wat is no longer just a temple complex, it has become a stage where love stories unfold. Here are the top five reasons why Angkor Wat is emerging as the ultimate spot for marriage proposals.

1. A Timeless Symbol of Love and Heritage

Standing as the crown jewel of Khmer civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor Wat exudes a sense of permanence, grandeur, and sacredness. For couples, proposing at Angkor Wat is not just about the physical beauty of the temple but the meaning it carries.

The temple represents endurance, strength, and serenity, qualities that mirror the essence of a lifelong commitment. To stand in front of the centuries-old temple while making a promise of eternal love is deeply symbolic. It’s as though history itself becomes a witness to one of life’s most personal and emotional moments.

2. The Magical Sunrise Backdrop

Few sights in the world rival the breathtaking spectacle of sunrise at Angkor Wat. As the first rays of light break through the spires of the temple, the reflection in the lotus-filled pond creates a surreal and dreamlike scene. It’s no surprise that social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are filled with emotional clips of couples proposing against this majestic backdrop.

These golden-hour moments are not just visually stunning; they embody a sense of new beginnings. Just as the sun rises to mark a new day, a proposal at dawn here symbolizes the start of a new chapter in a couple’s life together.

3. Romance in Cinema and Folklore

The romance of Angkor Wat has been immortalized not only in history but also in global culture. The temple famously featured in Wong Kar-Wai’s celebrated film In the Mood for Love, where the poignant closing scene shows Chow whispering his secrets into a stone wall, inspired by a Cambodian folktale about sealing secrets away forever.

This cinematic moment has captured the imagination of millions worldwide, giving Angkor Wat a unique identity as a place where love, longing, and destiny converge. For couples, a proposal here isn’t just a private exchange, it connects them to a universal narrative of romance that transcends time.

4. A Rising Trend in Romantic Travel

Romance-driven tourism is on the rise, and Angkor Wat is quickly becoming one of Asia’s premier destinations for couples. Data from Booking.com shows that nearly 70 percent of Siem Reap’s bookings in late 2024 were made by couples, highlighting its growing appeal not just as a cultural treasure, but as a romantic escape.

Beyond proposals, Angkor Wat and its surrounding sites like Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm have also become hotspots for pre-wedding photoshoots. Couples are increasingly drawn to the symbolic beauty of these ancient structures, which embody endurance and timeless commitment, the very essence of marriage itself.

5. A Global Stage for Love Stories

Angkor Wat’s newfound popularity as a proposal destination places Cambodia alongside global romantic hotspots like Santorini, Paris, Venice, and Bali. Tourism experts see this as an exciting new dimension of Cambodia’s aspirations, with the potential to carve out a niche in the global destination wedding and romantic tourism market.

As tourism consultant Vivian Goh puts it, “If this trend gathers more momentum, Siem Reap will soon join the likes of the world’s most celebrated romantic destinations.” For many couples, choosing Angkor Wat means their love story becomes part of something far greater, an intertwining of personal memory with world heritage.

The Beginning of Forever at Angkor Wat

To the world, Angkor Wat stands as a monument of history, culture, and faith. But today, it has also become a canvas where couples paint the beginning of their forever. Whether it’s whispered under the soft glow of sunrise, framed by the ancient ruins of Ta Prohm, or sealed in a moment captured on camera, a proposal here carries a weight that few places in the world can match.

In the end, proposing at Angkor Wat is not just about asking a question. It’s about creating a story that blends the magic of Cambodia’s timeless beauty with the personal promise of a shared future. A moment here isn’t just lived, it’s etched into history.

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 2, 2025In:

The ancient wonders of Cambodia continue to draw the world’s attention. From January to September 2025, Angkor Archaeological Park received 705,269 international visitors, a small but steady increase of 0.77 percent compared to last year, according to an official release ...Read more

The ancient wonders of Cambodia continue to draw the world’s attention. From January to September 2025, Angkor Archaeological Park received 705,269 international visitors, a small but steady increase of 0.77 percent compared to last year, according to an official release on Wednesday.

This UNESCO World Heritage treasure generated $32.7 million in ticket sales over the nine-month period, reflecting a 0.57 percent rise year-on-year, figures from Angkor Enterprise revealed.

International tourists to Cambodia 2025

September, however, saw a quieter period, with 35,650 foreign tourists bringing in $1.64 million. Compared to the same month last year, arrivals dropped 25.7 percent while revenue decreased by 25 percent.

Nestled in the heart of Siem Reap Province, the Angkor complex boasts 91 awe-inspiring temples, built between the ninth and 13th centuries. Each year, millions of travelers come to marvel at its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.

Yet, as Thourn Sinan, chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association Cambodia Chapter, pointed out:
“Considering the current geopolitical climate and various crisis issues impacting global travel, I did not expect a significant increase in tourist arrivals to the Angkor complex in 2025.”

He further noted:

“Unless there are initiatives such as free visas or special incentive packages for destination management companies or travellers, arrivals might remain relatively flat.”

Despite these challenges, Angkor remains one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic destinations, a place where history, culture, and timeless beauty continue to inspire travelers from across the globe.

(Xinhua)

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: October 1, 2025In:

Despite global uncertainty, Cambodia’s economy is proving resilient. The Asian Development Bank ...Read more

Despite global uncertainty, Cambodia’s economy is proving resilient.

The Asian Development Bank has revised its forecast growth is now set at nearly 5 percent for 2025, slightly lower than earlier estimates, but still a sign of strength.

Why?
Falling food and fuel prices have eased inflation.
Garment exports jumped over 22 percent.
Agriculture and tourism continue to recover.

Experts say Cambodia’s fundamentals remain solid — low public debt, strong reserves, and a growing industrial base.

The report highlighted that inflation eased significantly from 6.0 percent in January to 1.6 percent in June, due to falling food and fuel prices. Inflation is projected to average around 2.0 percent in both 2025 and 2026, providing relief to households and businesses alike.

Yes, border tensions with Thailand and US trade risks pose challenges. But with smart fiscal policies, skilled workers, and reforms in tourism, energy, and digital economy, Cambodia is positioning itself for balanced, sustainable growth.

Nearly 5 percent growth in tough times? That’s resilience in action.”

Source: https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501764844/adb-pegs-cambodias-growth-at-nearly-5-percent-for-fy2025/

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Angkor Times
Angkor TimesExperienced
Asked: September 30, 2025In:

A Digital Push from the Senate President In Cambodia’s fast-changing digital world, where millions are connected through social media and mobile data, Senate President Hun Sen has once again made headlines not for politics, but for technology. Speaking at the ...Read more

A Digital Push from the Senate President

In Cambodia’s fast-changing digital world, where millions are connected through social media and mobile data, Senate President Hun Sen has once again made headlines not for politics, but for technology. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the extraordinary congress of the Cambodia Veteran Association (CVA), where he also serves as President, Hun Sen urged members to start embracing Telegram’s live-streaming feature. His message was simple yet powerful: Telegram Live is more efficient than Facebook Live, using less internet data and allowing more people, especially in rural areas, to connect and engage. This call reflects more than a preference for one app over another; it highlights a broader strategy for digital inclusivity, organizational outreach, and even business growth in Cambodia.

Senate President Hun Sen presides over the extraordinary congress of the Cambodia Veteran Association (CVA)
Senate President Hun Sen presides over the extraordinary congress of the Cambodia Veteran Association (CVA), photo: Khmer Times

Why Telegram and Why Now?

Hun Sen pointed out that while Facebook has been the dominant platform for years, it comes with limitations. Broadcasting on Facebook Live consumes more internet data and requires stronger connections luxuries not always available to ordinary Cambodians. Telegram, on the other hand, offers live streaming with lower data requirements, making it easier for viewers in provinces and rural areas with weaker connectivity to participate.

For Hun Sen, this is not just a matter of convenience; it’s about access. If government institutions, associations like CVA, and even businesses want to reach people in every corner of the country, they must use platforms that are affordable and inclusive. By championing Telegram Live, Hun Sen is signaling that digital communication should be accessible to all citizens, not just those with high-speed internet or expensive data packages.

The Problem with CVA’s Online Presence

Hun Sen’s remarks also carried a dose of frustration. He noted that CVA’s presence online, especially on Facebook, was weak. Activities were rarely posted or promoted, and when they were, they didn’t capture much attention. To address this, Hun Sen created a special working group to collect and distribute updates from Bayon TV, his social media channels, and CVA events so that government activities could reach more people.

More importantly, he highlighted that many Telegram channel operators did not even know how to use the live-streaming function. This lack of digital literacy is a barrier not only for CVA but for countless other organizations across Cambodia. His message was clear: if you don’t know how to go live on Telegram, learn. For Hun Sen, failing to adapt to these tools is no longer acceptable in today’s connected society.

Falling Behind Means Losing Followers

Hun Sen also revealed a telling statistic about his own Telegram channel. Once boasting over one million subscribers, it has now dropped to around 700,000 because of passive performance and limited engagement. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hun Manet’s channel continues to grow, currently with around 470,000 subscribers.

This shift demonstrates a universal truth of the digital age: audiences are not permanent. Whether you are a politician, an association, or a business, if you fail to engage your followers regularly with fresh and interactive content, they will leave. Telegram Live is therefore more than just a new feature it’s a tool to sustain attention, loyalty, and influence in a crowded digital environment.

Telegram Live: Features That Matter

Hun Sen’s recommendation is rooted in the advantages Telegram Live offers over competing platforms. Current features include:

  • Low Data Consumption: Telegram requires less internet bandwidth than Facebook Live, making streams smoother even with weaker connections.
  • Direct Broadcasting to Channels: Live streams can be broadcast directly to channel subscribers without relying on complex group structures or algorithm-driven feeds.
  • Real-Time Audience Interaction: Viewers can send comments and reactions, creating a more interactive experience.
  • Replay Options: Those who miss a broadcast can easily rewatch it later, extending the reach of the event.
  • Event Scheduling: Channels can schedule live streams ahead of time, giving followers reminders and improving attendance.
  • Audience Analytics: Basic data tools allow hosts to measure engagement and refine strategies.

These features make Telegram a practical choice for organizations and businesses that want affordable, reliable, and interactive communication with their audiences.

A New Trend in Data Consumption

Hun Sen’s promotion of Telegram Live also hints at broader economic consequences. If more people begin using Telegram instead of Facebook, data consumption patterns in Cambodia could shift dramatically. Telecom operators and internet service providers may need to adjust pricing models as users no longer require expensive data bundles just to watch live streams.

This change could reshape the digital economy, especially considering Cambodia already has around 11.65 million social media users about 68 percent of the population. If even a fraction of those users switch to Telegram for live streaming, the platform could become a significant player in the Cambodian digital space, creating ripple effects across business, government, and society.

Inclusivity: Reaching Every Corner of Cambodia

Socio-economic researcher Chey Tech described Hun Sen’s call as a “positive initiative” precisely because it benefits people in rural provinces. With Telegram Live, ordinary citizens can join digital conversations without paying high internet costs. For a country where many families must carefully manage mobile data, this is an important step toward inclusivity.

For the government, inclusivity translates into better transparency and public engagement. For businesses, it opens doors to previously unreachable customers. Whether it’s promoting a new product, hosting a customer Q&A, or delivering live tutorials, Telegram Live allows businesses to connect with consumers more effectively while breaking down the barriers linked to high data consumption.

Lessons for Business Owners

Hun Sen’s message should not be seen as relevant only for CVA or government institutions. Business owners in Cambodia can learn several critical lessons from this push toward Telegram:

  1. Digital Literacy is Essential: Just as CVA operators struggled to use Telegram Live, many businesses risk falling behind if they do not invest in training staff to master digital tools.
  2. Engagement is Key: Losing subscribers or customers due to inactivity or lack of fresh content is a risk every business faces. Consistency in communication keeps audiences loyal.
  3. Platform Diversification Protects Reach: Depending solely on Facebook or TikTok is risky. Businesses should explore multiple platforms, including Telegram to avoid overreliance on a single channel.
  4. Affordability Expands Markets: By using platforms that require less data, businesses can reach more customers, especially in rural areas where affordability is critical.
  5. Interactive Features Build Trust: Real-time interaction during live streams allows businesses to build stronger relationships with consumers, enhancing brand credibility.

A Broader Vision for Cambodia’s Digital Future

Hun Sen’s call for Telegram Live should also be viewed as part of Cambodia’s broader journey toward digital modernization. The Senate President envisions a future where platforms like Telegram become hubs for government transparency, public engagement, and community building. For organizations like CVA, it’s a way to stay relevant; for businesses, it’s a way to grow; and for citizens, it’s a way to feel included in national conversations without facing digital exclusion.

This vision emphasizes that technology is not just about convenience but about empowerment. By urging Cambodians to embrace Telegram Live, Hun Sen is advocating for a more connected, inclusive, and innovative society.

The Opportunity of Telegram Live

Hun Sen’s advocacy for Telegram Live is more than a preference for one app it is a wake-up call. For CVA, it means modernizing communication to engage members effectively. For government agencies, it means reaching citizens with greater transparency and inclusivity. For business owners, it means recognizing new opportunities to connect with consumers affordably and interactively.

The future of digital engagement in Cambodia will not belong to those who cling to outdated habits but to those who adapt quickly, learn new tools, and diversify their platforms. Telegram Live, with its low data requirements, user-friendly features, and growing influence, represents an opportunity too valuable to ignore. Hun Sen’s words should be heard not just by CVA members but by anyone government, business, or individual who seeks to thrive in Cambodia’s fast-changing digital landscape.

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