Kep Province Expands Digital Access at Key Tourist Attractions

The Kep Provincial Government, working through the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with MekongNet to introduce free public Wi Fi hotspots at major tourist locations across Kep City, including the well known Crab Market or Psar Kdam. This collaboration reflects a practical step toward improving digital access for both residents and visitors, while reinforcing Kep’s appeal as a modern and visitor friendly coastal destination that supports connectivity as part of the tourism experience.

Free Wi Fi to Strengthen Tourism and Community Engagement

According to an official statement, the initiative is designed to enhance the overall tourism environment by providing reliable internet access in public spaces. By enabling visitors to easily access travel information, transportation details, and local services, the project is expected to contribute directly to tourism development. Provincial authorities also emphasized that improved connectivity can strengthen local businesses, encourage online promotion of services, and foster greater engagement between visitors and the local community.

MekongNet’s Role in Delivering Secure and Reliable Connectivity

Under the terms of the agreement, MekongNet will provide the technical expertise and infrastructure needed to ensure stable, secure, and high quality internet service at selected tourist hotspots. Once fully operational, the free Wi Fi service will allow travelers to stay connected, share their experiences in real time, and navigate Kep more easily. The company views the project as an opportunity to demonstrate how digital infrastructure can directly support tourism growth and public convenience.

Supporting Smart Tourism and Digital Inclusion

Provincial officials noted that the project aligns closely with the government’s broader strategy to promote smart tourism and digital inclusion, especially in emerging destinations beyond major urban centers. By extending digital services to popular but smaller tourist locations like Kep, authorities aim to ensure that the benefits of Cambodia’s digital transformation are shared more widely and contribute to balanced regional development.

Private Sector Commitment to National Digital Growth

“We are honoured to support the Kep Provincial Government through this initiative,” said Eng Dara, Deputy Head of Sales at MekongNet. “At MekongNet, connectivity is about more than internet access — it is about creating meaningful digital experiences. This project allows us to support tourism while delivering reliable connectivity for everyone visiting Kep.” MekongNet further highlighted that the rollout reflects its ongoing commitment to expanding digital infrastructure nationwide, particularly in areas with strong tourism potential.

Local Businesses Welcome Improved Connectivity

Kep, widely recognized for its seaside scenery and fresh seafood, has experienced steady growth in both domestic and international tourism in recent years. Local business owners have welcomed the introduction of free public Wi Fi, noting that better connectivity can help attract more visitors, improve online visibility, and support the use of digital and cashless services that are increasingly expected by modern travelers.

Conclusion

The MoU between the Kep Provincial Government and MekongNet highlights the growing importance of public private collaboration in advancing Cambodia’s digital transformation agenda. By combining tourism development with practical digital infrastructure, the initiative supports inclusive and sustainable economic growth while positioning Kep as a smart, connected destination ready to meet the evolving expectations of today’s travelers.

GDT Introduces Beauramei as a New Digital Gateway for Taxpayers

The General Department of Taxation has taken a significant step toward digital public service delivery with the official launch of a new tax chatbot named ‘Beauramei’, designed to help taxpayers easily access tax related information and guidance. Introduced on Saturday, the chatbot currently operates in the Khmer language and allows taxpayers and the general public to ask questions about GDT services through simple text based conversations. By offering faster and more convenient access to information, Beauramei reduces the need for in person visits and manual responses, making tax related support more accessible to a wider audience.

Aligning Tax Administration with Government Digital Transformation Goals

According to a GDT press release, the rollout of the ‘GDT Chatbot called – Beauramei’ aligns closely with the Royal Government’s broader policy direction on modernising public service delivery. The initiative reflects a growing emphasis on using digital tools to improve transparency, efficiency, and access to government services, particularly in areas that directly affect businesses and citizens. By integrating Artificial Intelligence into tax administration, GDT aims to modernise how taxpayers interact with authorities while supporting national efforts to strengthen digital governance.

AI Driven Support to Improve Compliance and Reduce Administrative Burden

Beauramei is designed to simplify how users obtain guidance on taxation matters, including tax laws, legal regulations, and relevant supporting documents. The chatbot can also suggest follow up questions, enabling users to receive more targeted and detailed information based on their needs. This automation of routine inquiries is expected to reduce administrative workloads for tax officials, improve response times, and ensure more consistent service delivery. Easier access to accurate tax information is also expected to encourage voluntary tax compliance, particularly among small and medium sized enterprises that play a vital role in employment and economic growth.

Supporting Revenue Mobilisation and Economic Stability

The launch of Beauramei comes at a time when the Royal Government continues to prioritise domestic revenue mobilisation as a foundation for sustainable economic growth, public investment, and fiscal stability. By improving access to tax information and services, GDT aims to support a broader and more compliant tax base. Over time, clearer guidance and improved taxpayer services could contribute to stronger revenue collection and a more resilient economic framework for Cambodia.

Early Stage Deployment with Gradual Intelligence Development

GDT has acknowledged that Beauramei is currently deployed as Version 1, meaning its ability to respond comprehensively to all user questions remains limited. The chatbot’s intelligence will be developed gradually, similar to human learning from an early stage, with continuous improvements planned over time. User feedback will play a crucial role in enhancing accuracy, expanding knowledge coverage, and improving overall performance. Regular system upgrades are expected to address shortcomings and enable Beauramei to handle a wider range of inquiries more effectively.

Limitations and Responsible Use of Chatbot Information

At this initial stage, GDT has cautioned that responses generated by Beauramei may contain spelling, grammatical, or technical inaccuracies and may not always be complete or comprehensive. As a result, information provided by the chatbot cannot be used as legal evidence. The chatbot is also not yet capable of operating in foreign languages, limiting its reach to Khmer speaking users. Despite these constraints, the initiative demonstrates a clear commitment to innovation and responsible digital adoption within public administration.

Conclusion

The introduction of Beauramei marks an important milestone in Cambodia’s journey toward digital transformation in tax administration. While still in its early stages, the AI powered chatbot signals a forward looking approach to improving taxpayer services, enhancing compliance, and supporting long term economic resilience. As its capabilities expand through continuous learning and user feedback, Beauramei has the potential to become a valuable tool in building a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive tax system for Cambodia.

Smart Axiata Launches Cambodia 5G Era in Partnership With Government

In close coordination with the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, Smart Axiata has officially launched Cambodia’s first nationwide fifth generation mobile network, marking a decisive milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. The launch signals Cambodia’s readiness to embrace next generation connectivity and positions the nation to unlock new opportunities for social progress, economic resilience, and digital inclusion. More than a symbolic upgrade, the rollout reflects a shared commitment between the private sector and government to build a future ready digital ecosystem that benefits individuals, families, enterprises, and communities across the country.

5G as a Catalyst for Inclusive Digital Lifestyles

Rather than focusing solely on technical performance, Smart Axiata frames 5G as an enabler of everyday digital life. The technology enhances how Cambodians connect, learn, work, and entertain themselves by delivering smoother video calls, more reliable streaming, faster downloads, and stable connectivity for online education, remote work, and digital entertainment. By improving the quality and reliability of digital access, 5G supports more connected households and contributes to a higher standard of living while helping bridge gaps in digital participation.

Phased Rollout Strategy Starting From Urban Centers

The introduction of Smart 5G begins in Phnom Penh and Kandal, supported by more than 283 installed network sites, with gradual expansion planned for other strategic provinces. This phased deployment reflects a long term and responsible rollout strategy designed to ensure service quality and network reliability as coverage expands. Customers are encouraged to check availability through the SmartNas App, which provides real time coverage information and allows users to verify device, SIM, and overall 5G compatibility for a seamless transition to the new network experience.

A Brand Identity That Reflects Limitless Possibility

The newly introduced Smart 5G logo draws inspiration from the infinity symbol, representing continuous progress and boundless opportunity. The visual identity reinforces the idea that 5G is not simply a faster network but a platform for innovation, creativity, and richer digital experiences. It reflects Smart Axiata’s vision of empowering every Cambodian to participate in and benefit from the evolving digital economy.

Empowering Businesses and the Digital Economy

For businesses, entrepreneurs, and startups, Smart 5G opens the door to more agile and competitive operations. Faster speeds and lower latency support MSMEs expanding online, freelancers serving international clients, and digital startups scaling innovative services. Enhanced connectivity enables smarter workflows, broader market reach, and more effective participation in Cambodia’s growing digital economy, reinforcing the role of connectivity as a core business enabler rather than a utility.

Incentivizing Adoption With a 50 Percent Bonus Data Offer

To accelerate adoption and encourage hands on experience, Smart Axiata is offering a 50 percent bonus data promotion for eligible customers from 1 January to 31 March 2026. Users with a 5G compatible device and an active Smart plan can access 5G services without changing their SIM card. The bonus data, available with selected plan subscriptions or renewals, is dedicated exclusively to Smart 5G usage, allowing customers to fully explore next generation digital experiences across work, learning, gaming, and entertainment.

Leadership Perspective on Cambodia Digital Readiness

“5G is a crucial step in preparing Cambodia for the future digital economy—it is not just about faster speeds,” said Ritesh Kumar Singh, CEO of Smart Axiata. “What matters most to us is seeing every Cambodian truly utilize and maximize the benefits of 5G, whether to power innovation, support businesses, or enhance everyday digital lifestyles. Our rollout will be phased and responsible, expanding gradually to ensure reliable, nationwide coverage that meets the needs of people, families, and businesses across the country.” His remarks underscore Smart Axiata’s emphasis on meaningful adoption and sustainable network development.

Extending 5G Impact Beyond Mobile Connectivity

Beyond personal use, Smart 5G is positioned as a foundation for enterprise and industrial transformation. High speed connectivity and low latency enable advanced applications such as real time data analytics, automation, and remote monitoring. Manufacturing firms can transition toward smart factory models using IoT driven predictive maintenance, while logistics and distribution companies can optimize fleet management and supply chains through real time tracking and automated systems, strengthening productivity across key sectors of Cambodia’s economy.

Smart Axiata Role in National Digital Transformation

With the launch of 5G, Smart Axiata reinforces its position as a strategic partner in Cambodia’s digital development. Working closely with regulators, industry partners, and communities, the company aims to ensure that 5G adoption is inclusive, transparent, and future oriented. Backed by Axiata Group Berhad and supported by regional expertise and global standards, Smart Axiata continues to invest in network excellence while contributing to long term economic and digital progress for the Kingdom.

Conclusion

The introduction of Smart 5G marks more than a technological milestone for Cambodia. It represents a forward looking commitment to inclusive growth, digital empowerment, and economic modernization. By focusing on people, businesses, and long term national readiness, Smart Axiata’s 5G rollout lays a strong foundation for Cambodia’s next chapter of digital growth, where connectivity becomes a powerful driver of opportunity, innovation, and shared prosperity.

TRC Launches New Year Directive to Reinforce Consumer Protection

The Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia has issued a New Year directive urging all mobile network operators to fully comply starting from the first day of the year, signaling a firm commitment to strengthening consumer rights and ensuring fair treatment across Cambodia’s telecommunications market. This regulatory move underscores the authority’s role in setting clearer rules that protect users while improving overall service standards in a fast growing digital economy.

Simplified Reactivation for Expired Mobile Numbers

Under the new directive, mobile subscribers whose numbers have expired for no more than 180 days can now reactivate their services simply by topping up their main account balance. This change removes the previous requirement for users to physically re register at operator offices or branches, significantly reducing inconvenience and saving time for customers, particularly those in remote or busy urban areas.

Protection of Remaining Account Balances

To further safeguard consumer interests, the TRC has instructed mobile operators to retain any remaining main account balance for up to 180 days after a service expires. If a user tops up within this period, the operator must fully restore the retained balance. This measure directly addresses long standing complaints about lost credit and reinforces fairness and transparency in billing practices.

Mandatory Customer Notifications for Transparency

The directive requires operators to notify customers at least twice via SMS and through their mobile applications before the balance retention period ends. These notifications must clearly state the final termination date and explain how users can recover their remaining balance, ensuring customers are properly informed and able to act before losing their credit.

Clear Channels for Consumer Complaints

To strengthen accountability, the TRC has encouraged users to report any irregularities in telecommunications services through official channels. Complaints can be submitted via the TRC hotline 6789 during business hours, by email at [email protected], or through the regulator’s official Facebook page. These mechanisms are designed to give consumers direct access to regulatory support when issues arise.

Broader Regulatory Commitment and Market Oversight

This directive reflects the TRC’s broader mandate to protect consumers by enforcing penalties for service violations, regulating SIM registration, managing service quality, and addressing illegal charges or unwanted auto subscriptions. The regulator continues to monitor and investigate breaches while maintaining complaint systems that promote ethical competition among operators.

A Growing Sector Under Stronger Regulation

As Cambodia’s telecommunications sector continues to expand rapidly, the role of the TRC has become increasingly critical. The industry is projected to reach billions of dollars in value by the mid 2030s, driven by digital inclusion and rising economic contributions. Established under the 2015 Law on Telecommunications, the TRC operates as an independent public entity overseeing one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic telecom markets, where mobile penetration exceeds the population and internet subscriptions surpass 16 million.

Conclusion

Through this New Year directive, the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia has taken a decisive step toward modernizing consumer protection in the telecom sector. By simplifying number reactivation, safeguarding balances, enforcing transparency, and strengthening complaint mechanisms, the TRC is positioning Cambodia’s telecommunications industry for sustainable growth, fair competition, and stronger public trust in the digital era.

AI Powered Startups Accelerate Revenue Growth in Cambodia

Cambodian startups and local digital applications that integrate AI powered features are experiencing a sharp rise in revenue as the country’s digital economy enters a phase of exceptional expansion, reflecting growing confidence among consumers and businesses in intelligent technologies that enhance efficiency, personalization, and decision making across multiple sectors.

Strong Market Momentum Driven by Regional Digital Transformation

Cambodia’s artificial intelligence market is gaining notable traction, with local startups reporting strong financial performance as AI adoption deepens nationwide, according to the ‘e Conomy SEA 2025’ report jointly compiled by Google, Temasek and Bain and Company, which positions Cambodia as an emerging contributor to Southeast Asia’s rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.

Revenue Growth Signals Cambodia’s Rising Digital Role

The report highlights that Cambodian startups offering AI powered features recorded an 86 percent increase in revenue between the first half of 2024 and the first half of 2025, underscoring how the country is transitioning from early adoption to tangible commercial returns within the broader ASEAN digital economy.

Next Wave ASEAN Markets Gain Investor Attention

Cambodia is classified among the region’s next wave ASEAN markets, defined by relatively low user penetration but rapidly increasing AI related revenues, a combination that signals strong upside potential as digital infrastructure improves and consumer familiarity with advanced technologies continues to expand.

High Awareness and Daily Use Among Cambodian Consumers

Survey data from the report shows widespread awareness and frequent use of AI tools in Cambodia, with 82 percent of respondents stating they had learned about AI through multiple channels and 75 percent reporting daily interaction with AI features, demonstrating how quickly intelligent tools are becoming embedded in everyday digital behavior.

Chatbots and Decision Support Drive Practical Adoption

More than one third of users, representing 38 percent of respondents, regularly converse with AI chatbots to ask questions or seek information, while 47 percent expect AI to help them make decisions faster and with less mental effort, highlighting the growing perception of AI as a practical productivity enhancer rather than a novelty.

What Motivates Users to Pay for AI Features

Key motivations for adopting or paying for AI powered services include saving time on research and product comparisons, receiving more personalized recommendations, and benefiting from improved security and fraud protection, all of which directly align with consumer priorities in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Regional Digital Economy Growth Reinforces Local Gains

Cambodia’s AI performance mirrors broader Southeast Asia trends, with the regional digital economy projected to surpass 300 billion dollars in gross merchandise value, supported by steady year on year growth of around 15 percent driven by deeper digital participation and new monetization strategies such as tiered services and diversified revenue streams.

AI Reshapes How Consumers Discover and Buy

The report notes that traditional linear search journeys are being replaced by dynamic AI powered discovery processes, as consumers rely on enhanced search tools and multimodal inputs to handle complex queries, compelling businesses to rethink how they guide customers from initial interest to final purchase.

Trust and Regulation Remain Key Challenges

Despite strong enthusiasm for AI, consumer trust remains a critical hurdle, with users cautious about allowing AI to manage high impact decisions due to privacy, data security, and reliability concerns, prompting the report to stress the importance of transparency, user control, and trustworthy system design.

A Decade of Digital Expansion Sets the Stage for the Future

Over the past decade, Southeast Asia’s digital economy has grown from about 40 billion dollars in gross merchandise value to more than 300 billion dollars in 2025, with a decisive shift toward monetization since 2024 expected to push digital economy revenue to 135 billion dollars, an eleven fold increase despite challenges such as the pandemic and inflation.

Conclusion

Cambodia’s rapid AI driven revenue growth reflects a broader transformation underway in the country’s digital economy, where rising consumer awareness, practical use cases, and regional momentum are converging to create new opportunities, and while trust and regulatory clarity remain essential priorities, the trajectory suggests that AI powered innovation will play an increasingly central role in shaping Cambodia’s economic future.