Cambodia Embraces Digital Transformation with Four New Digital Government Programs

In a groundbreaking move to advance public service delivery and ensure digital security, the Royal Government of Cambodia, through the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT), has introduced four innovative Digital Government Products (DGPs). These tools promise to elevate the nation’s technological infrastructure, boost efficiency, and reinforce trust in digital public services.

Each of these programs has undergone rigorous technical compliance and cybersecurity evaluations, ensuring they are robust, secure, and capable of resisting potential cyber threats. These efforts are in alignment with Cambodia’s Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021-2035 and the Digital Government Policy 2022-2035, aimed at positioning the nation at the forefront of the 4.0 Industrial Revolution.

Let’s explore the four advanced digital solutions now officially recognized and rolled out by the government:

1. GO.GOV.KH: Secure Repository for Public Documents

Purpose:
GO.GOV.KH serves as a centralized repository for official public documents. It is designed to streamline the dissemination of accurate information while eliminating risks associated with fake documents, fraudulent links, or misinformation. Link: https://go.gov.kh/

Key Features:

• Provides ministries and institutions a secure platform for sharing official announcements and resources.
• Reduces the spread of phishing scams and counterfeit documents by ensuring authenticity.

Impact:
This tool enhances transparency and public trust in government communications, ensuring that citizens can access reliable and verified information. Link: https://form.gov.kh/

2. FORM.GOV.KH: Modern Online Form Builder

Purpose:
This platform provides a digital space for creating and managing online forms tailored to surveys, registrations, monitoring, and feedback collection.

Key Features:

• Functions as a Cambodian alternative to global tools like Google Forms and Microsoft Forms.
• All collected data is encrypted and secured with unique secret keys, ensuring privacy and security.

Impact:
FORM.GOV.KH fosters digital participation and feedback, enabling ministries and institutions to engage directly with citizens in a secure manner.

3. NOMSA.GOV.KH: Trusted Short Message Sending Platform

Purpose:
Designed to securely send short messages or notifications, this tool replaces services like SMS and Twilio with a localized, authentic platform. Link: https://nomsa.gov.kh/

Key Features:

• Sends notifications that clearly indicate their origin, ensuring they are legitimate.
• Strengthens public confidence in communication from ministries, institutions, and private entities.

Impact:
By eliminating doubts about message authenticity, NOMSA.GOV.KH creates a seamless channel for trusted communication.

4. K.A.T. SARIKA: AI-Powered Text-to-Speech Tool

Purpose:
SARIKA is an artificial intelligence program integrated into Telegram that converts text into spoken Khmer.

Key Features:

• Converts text into natural-sounding Khmer voice for content creation and document reading.
• Operates via a Telegram Bot, making it easily accessible for users.

Impact:
SARIKA opens doors for visually impaired users, facilitates digital content creation, and promotes the use of Khmer in the digital space.

Driving the Digital Revolution in Cambodia

These programs are part of a broader initiative to promote digitalization in public services. They aim to:

• Enhance work efficiency in government and private institutions.
• Strengthen digital participation among citizens.
• Build trust in public digital services by ensuring security and reliability.

The MPT has emphasized that its technical working group will continuously monitor and improve these programs, guaranteeing their quality, sustainability, and resilience against cybersecurity threats.

Aligning with Cambodia’s Vision

The introduction of these programs reflects Cambodia’s commitment to advancing its digital economy and fostering an inclusive digital society. By integrating cutting-edge technology, the Royal Government is paving the way for a tech-driven future, strengthening the nation’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Your Thoughts Matter

What are your opinions on these new Digital Government Programs? Do you think they will significantly impact Cambodia’s digital transformation journey? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Read less

Why Cambodian People Prefer Telegram Over Other Messenger Apps: A Comprehensive Analysis

In recent years, Telegram has surged in popularity across Cambodia, standing out as the go-to app for communication, information sharing, business promotion, and even community-building. For Cambodians, Telegram isn’t just another messaging app—it’s become a vital all-in-one platform for personal and professional interactions, providing a versatile and secure alternative to other messaging services.

In this blog, we’ll dive into why Cambodians prefer Telegram, covering its growth, usage demographics, and the top reasons it stands out over other messenger apps. We’ll explore the unique features that make Telegram an indispensable tool for Cambodian users, both in daily life and professional scenarios.

When Did Telegram Become Popular in Cambodia?

Telegram’s rise in Cambodia began around the late 2010s, gaining steady momentum due to its encrypted messaging capabilities, which appealed to a population that values privacy. Telegram became even more popular in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people sought reliable digital tools to stay connected and informed. With its fast, ad-free, and secure interface, Telegram quickly became a favorite for Cambodians, and it hasn’t slowed down since.

Total Number of Telegram Users in Cambodia in 2024

As of 2024, the estimated number of Telegram users in Cambodia is close to 4 million. This growth highlights the significant shift in communication preferences among Cambodians, especially as they gravitate towards Telegram’s robust features for secure messaging, media sharing, business, and community-building. The user base includes individuals from diverse age groups, backgrounds, and professional sectors, making Telegram an integral part of Cambodian digital life.

Who Uses Telegram in Cambodia?

Telegram is popular among various segments of Cambodian society, including:

• Young adults and professionals: They use Telegram for quick and reliable communication, both in personal and professional contexts.
• Business owners and marketers: These individuals leverage Telegram’s group and channel features for product promotion, customer engagement, and brand building.
• Government and nonprofit organizations: They utilize Telegram channels to broadcast information, disseminate news, and engage with the public on a wide scale.
• Educators and trainers: Teachers, trainers, and education centers use Telegram for virtual classes, workshops, and sharing learning resources, creating a productive learning environment.

Top Reasons Why Cambodian People Prefer Telegram Over Other Messenger Apps

Telegram’s popularity in Cambodia is driven by several key features that make it distinct from other messaging apps. Let’s explore the top reasons why it has become a preferred platform for Cambodians.

1. User-Friendly Interface and Easy Navigation

Telegram’s simple and intuitive interface makes it accessible to users of all ages and tech literacy levels. The app’s layout is easy to navigate, and its minimalist design allows users to locate important features without hassle. Telegram’s setup and onboarding process are straightforward, so new users can get started quickly, enhancing its appeal among all age groups.

2. Fast, Easy-to-Use, and Secure Communication

Telegram stands out for its speed and security. Unlike some other messaging apps that might experience lag or server issues, Telegram maintains smooth, fast connections even in areas with unstable internet. Additionally, Telegram’s focus on security through end-to-end encryption is a major plus, especially for Cambodians who prioritize privacy. The app’s “Secret Chat” feature ensures conversations remain private, and the option to set self-destruct timers on messages adds an extra layer of security.

3. Promotion of Products and Services

With Telegram, business owners and marketers have access to valuable promotional tools. Telegram channels allow businesses to share updates, promotional content, and offers directly with subscribers. The platform supports large audiences, so marketers can reach more people compared to traditional social media platforms. Features such as push notifications ensure that followers don’t miss out on important updates, and businesses can even boost posts to gain visibility. These features make Telegram a powerful tool for Cambodian businesses to grow and engage with their audience.

4. Community Building, Networking, and Learning

Telegram has transformed how Cambodians connect and collaborate. The app enables users to form large groups and channels, making it easy to establish communities based on shared interests or professional networks. Whether it’s a business network, a support group, or an online classroom, Telegram’s group features are perfect for creating connections and building strong community ties. Moreover, with the rise of online learning, educators use Telegram to manage groups, provide resources, and conduct discussions, making it an ideal educational platform in Cambodia.

5. Data and Document Transfer

Telegram’s data transfer capabilities surpass those of many other apps. The platform allows users to share large files (up to 2GB per file), which is beneficial for both personal and business use. This feature is particularly useful in professional settings where users need to send high-quality media, presentations, or other large documents without compromising on file integrity. For Cambodians in business or academia, Telegram’s data-sharing capacity has been a game-changer, offering a reliable way to exchange files without needing email or cloud storage.

6. Private Group Storage for Data/Documents

Telegram offers a unique advantage with its private groups that users can use as personal data storage spaces. Cambodians utilize this feature to store documents, media, and other files, accessible whenever they need them. These private groups serve as a cloud storage alternative, allowing users to keep important files organized and readily available. This is especially beneficial for those managing a business or studying, as they can easily save and retrieve relevant information.

7. Calls, Livestreaming, and Meeting Capabilities

Telegram provides diverse communication options, from voice and video calls to livestreaming and group meetings. These features are essential for Cambodians, especially during times when face-to-face interactions aren’t possible. Professionals and businesses benefit from these functionalities for virtual meetings and presentations. The call quality is consistently reliable, and with the option for group calls and video, users find it an ideal platform for conducting meetings or attending events remotely.

Key Points on Why Telegram Has Become a “Must-Use” App in Cambodia

1. Personal and Professional Communication on Telegram
   Telegram has become a preferred channel for quick, convenient communication. The app’s speed, reliability, and ease of use make it ideal for short, direct messages, as well as extended conversations. Professionals and individuals alike enjoy the seamless experience Telegram offers, facilitating both personal chats and work-related discussions.
2. Government and Non-Profit Organizations’ Use of Telegram Channels
   Many Cambodian government agencies and non-profit organizations use Telegram to broadcast services, share news, and provide updates to the public. The platform’s broad reach and ease of sharing important information have made it an essential tool for public communication. Telegram’s channel feature allows these organizations to engage directly with the community, ensuring that crucial information reaches those who need it.
3. Business Owners, Educators, and Trainers
   Cambodian business owners have discovered that Telegram’s group and channel options are excellent for networking, promoting services, and sharing job announcements. Trainers and educators also utilize these features to facilitate discussions, manage learning groups, and provide resources. For many Cambodians, Telegram has become a virtual hub for business networking and professional growth.
4. Telegram Groups for Business Networking
   Cambodian business owners, organizations, and even government bodies utilize Telegram groups to promote their services, expand their reach, and connect with like-minded professionals. These groups foster networking opportunities, helping members stay updated on industry trends, attend events, and share valuable insights.

Final Thoughts

Telegram’s popularity in Cambodia continues to grow as the app provides a range of features that make communication easy, secure, and productive. Whether for personal use, professional growth, or business promotion, Telegram has become the platform of choice for millions of Cambodians. Its versatility, coupled with an emphasis on privacy and ease of use, makes Telegram a unique and valuable tool in the digital landscape.

In Cambodia, Telegram is more than just a messaging app—it’s a platform that empowers individuals and businesses, supports community-building, and fosters secure, effective communication.

Read less

UNDP Launches Anti-Scam Handbook with Global Coalition Partners: A Collaborative Effort Against Digital Scams

In response to the escalating global crisis of digital scams, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a groundbreaking tool—the Anti-Scam Handbook (v1.0)—designed to combat the pervasive threat of digital fraud. This resource was unveiled at the Global Anti-Scam Summit Asia held in Singapore, with support from global coalition partners including Mastercard, INTERPOL, ThinkPlace, and others. The handbook is crafted to provide actionable strategies and foster high-impact collective responses that include public, private, and civil society partnerships on both national and global scales. In attendance were notable speakers, including Mr. Joe Hooper, Director of UNDP’s Global Centre in Singapore, and Ms. Alissar Chaker, UNDP Resident Representative in Cambodia, who highlighted the urgency of curbing digital scams that undermine economic and social development across the world.

With cybercriminals exploiting technology at an alarming pace, scams now account for over $1 trillion in financial losses annually—a figure that continues to climb as scams become increasingly complex and far-reaching. This article will explore the details of the Anti-Scam Handbook, the key players and their roles in combating digital scams, and the profound impact of scams on development, focusing on how the UNDP’s new initiative can shape anti-scam responses globally.

The Escalating Threat of Digital Scams: A Trillion-Dollar Crisis

Digital scams have reached a critical juncture, costing individuals and economies over $1 trillion annually, equivalent to more than 1% of the global GDP. According to the Anti-Scam Handbook, scams are no longer isolated events but have evolved into sophisticated networks that exploit technological advances. This surge has led to severe economic, social, and emotional repercussions, affecting approximately one in four people worldwide. In many regions, particularly in developing countries, scams threaten to reverse digital gains, creating obstacles to economic and social progress.

Key Types of Scams Addressed by the Handbook

The Anti-Scam Handbook sheds light on several types of digital scams prevalent across regions, including but not limited to:

1. E-commerce Fraud: Fake online stores and deceptive product listings.
2. Credit Card Schemes: Unlawful acquisition and use of credit card information.
3. Social Engineering Tactics: Manipulative schemes targeting personal information.
4. Phishing Attacks: Fraudulent emails or messages posing as legitimate entities.

These scams are especially devastating in regions with limited resources, where they can hinder the development of digital economies. The handbook underlines that the loss of public trust in digital systems is one of the most significant barriers to economic progress in these regions, as citizens and businesses become hesitant to engage with online platforms and services due to fear of exploitation.

Disproportionate Impact on Developing Nations

While digital scams are a global issue, the Anti-Scam Handbook highlights that they can be particularly detrimental to developing countries, where digital literacy and regulatory frameworks may be limited. According to the handbook, data on digital scams is often skewed toward developed countries, leaving the true scope of the issue in less-resourced nations underreported. The Anti-Scam Handbook seeks to bridge this information gap, sharing insights from coalition members and ethnographic studies conducted in developing countries like Cambodia and Kenya.

In Cambodia, for instance, digital scams have seen an alarming rise, affecting businesses and individuals alike. A recent ethnographic study conducted by UNDP in Cambodia identified the types of scams most prevalent in the country, such as e-commerce and phishing scams, and highlighted their effects on Cambodian society. It was found that many Cambodians avoid reporting scams due to a lack of confidence in authorities, often turning to informal networks for information and support.

UNDP’s Global Coalition Against Digital Scams

The UNDP’s initiative to launch the Anti-Scam Handbook was a collaborative effort, drawing on the expertise and resources of a global coalition. Some of the key partners in this initiative include:

• Mastercard: Provided insights into secure financial transactions and digital payment security.
• INTERPOL: Assisted with international cooperation and intelligence to track and prevent cross-border scam operations.
• ThinkPlace: Contributed design-thinking solutions to make the handbook accessible and actionable for diverse audiences.

UNDP’s commitment to combating digital scams involves harnessing the collective strengths of these partners. Mr. Joe Hooper, Director of UNDP’s Global Centre in Singapore, underscored the importance of this coalition, stating that “our strength lies in bringing together a global coalition of partners… the success of our recent workshop in Cambodia is a testament to the power of collective action.” The workshop in Cambodia brought together over 40 experts from 20 organizations, underscoring the importance of joint efforts in addressing this global crisis.

Case Study: Cambodia’s Fight Against Digital Scams

The UNDP’s focus on Cambodia as a case study provides an illustrative example of the challenges and potential solutions in combating digital scams in developing nations. With digitalisation rapidly transforming Cambodia’s economy, the risks associated with scams have become a critical concern for authorities. According to Touch Sokhak, spokesperson for Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior, scams in Cambodia reflect a larger, international trend that requires collaboration beyond national borders.

In recent years, Cambodia has intensified its efforts to address scams, often coordinating with foreign embassies to crack down on scam networks and repatriate perpetrators and victims alike. However, combating scams in Cambodia remains a significant challenge due to several factors:

• Lack of Resources: Limited funding and personnel make it difficult for authorities to tackle the ever-evolving tactics of cybercriminals.
• Technological Gaps: Authorities struggle to keep pace with technological advancements that scammers exploit.
• Limited Digital Literacy: Many Cambodians lack the knowledge needed to identify and avoid scams, making them more susceptible to fraud.

Insights from Ethnographic Studies

In Cambodia, UNDP’s ethnographic studies found that many individuals choose not to report scams, often feeling disempowered or doubting the effectiveness of law enforcement. Instead, Cambodians often rely on informal networks for information about scams, which can lead to inconsistent or inaccurate advice.

Collaborative Initiatives and Educational Efforts

To counter these challenges, UNDP and Cambodian authorities have initiated several programs to improve digital literacy, raise public awareness, and strengthen institutional frameworks. These programs include government-led campaigns that educate the public on safe online practices, encourage scam detection, and foster a cautious approach to online transactions.

The Anti-Scam Handbook: Key Recommendations and Preventative Strategies

One of the Anti-Scam Handbook’s core objectives is to provide actionable recommendations that can be implemented across various levels of society, including governmental bodies, corporations, and civil society organizations. Here are some of the handbook’s main recommendations:

1. Strengthening Public Awareness and Digital Literacy

The handbook emphasizes the importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge needed to identify and avoid scams. Through public awareness campaigns, governments can help individuals adopt safer online practices and recognize scam tactics. Programs like these can be tailored to target different demographics, ensuring that people from all age groups and educational backgrounds are informed.

2. Enhancing Cross-Border Collaboration

Digital scams often operate across national borders, making international cooperation essential. The handbook recommends strengthening partnerships between countries to facilitate the sharing of intelligence and resources. By collaborating with global law enforcement agencies like INTERPOL, countries can better track and dismantle scam networks that operate internationally.

3. Implementing Regulatory Frameworks and Policy Reforms

One of the handbook’s key points is the need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks that can respond to the ever-evolving nature of digital scams. These frameworks should include measures for monitoring digital platforms, removing fraudulent content, and enforcing penalties against perpetrators. Developing countries may need support from global partners to establish and enforce these frameworks effectively.

4. Investing in Cybersecurity Infrastructure

As scams become increasingly sophisticated, so too must the technology used to combat them. The handbook advocates for investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, particularly in developing nations that may lack the resources to defend against advanced scams. This includes tools for detecting fraudulent activity and protecting user data, as well as cybersecurity training for law enforcement officials.

Building a Global Movement Against Digital Scams

The Anti-Scam Handbook marks a significant step forward in the global fight against digital scams, but it is only the beginning. UNDP’s coalition underscores the importance of ongoing partnerships, as Mr. Joe Hooper remarked, “While this is a significant first step, we remain humble in acknowledging that there is much more to be done.” UNDP’s commitment to fostering collaboration across public, private, and civil society sectors is essential for maintaining momentum and creating a sustainable, long-term impact.

Expanding the Handbook’s Reach

To maximize its impact, UNDP aims to make the Anti-Scam Handbook widely accessible, with future versions potentially incorporating new findings and region-specific strategies. By updating the handbook based on the latest research and trends, UNDP and its partners can ensure that it remains a relevant and effective resource for combating digital scams worldwide.

Encouraging Global Participation

UNDP has called for greater participation from governments, corporations, and non-governmental organizations, urging them to contribute their expertise and resources to the global anti-scam movement. By fostering a culture of shared responsibility, UNDP hopes to create a world where digital scams are no longer a pervasive threat.

Conclusion

The launch of the Anti-Scam Handbook represents a monumental step in combating the global crisis of digital scams. Through collective action and sustained partnerships, UNDP and its coalition partners have laid the groundwork for a safer digital landscape. The handbook’s emphasis on public awareness, cross-border collaboration, and regulatory reform provides a comprehensive approach to tackling scams and restoring trust in digital economies. By empowering individuals and institutions with the tools and knowledge to identify and prevent scams, UNDP aims to create a future where the benefits of digitalization can be enjoyed without fear of exploitation.

 Full press release: https://go.undp.org/o8o
 Anti-Scam Handbook: https://go.undp.org/o8i

Read less

Overview of 5G in Cambodia

The journey toward 5G in Cambodia has been marked by key partnerships and government initiatives. Since 2021, Cambodia has made strides toward becoming a digitally connected nation, with Japanese tech leaders NTT Docomo and Nippon Electric Company (NEE) recently partnering to accelerate 5G adoption. The joint venture, Orex Sai, introduced in early 2024, has already laid out plans to establish a robust 4G infrastructure as the precursor to a broader 5G rollout, expected in the coming years.

These efforts not only indicate a technological leap for Cambodia but also align closely with Cambodia’s national goals as outlined in the Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035.

Is 5G Widely Used in Cambodia?

While 5G is a promising addition to Cambodia’s telecommunications sector, widespread adoption is still in its infancy. There are several factors that contribute to the delayed availability and use of 5G across the nation:

• Infrastructure Challenges: Unlike urban areas, rural regions face inconsistent network coverage, which poses a challenge for equitable access to high-speed internet.
• Cost Factors: 5G infrastructure is resource-intensive, and many local telecom providers are still investing in upgrading existing 4G networks before rolling out full-scale 5G services.
• Consumer Readiness: While smartphones and internet access have grown in popularity, not all Cambodians currently have 5G-compatible devices, and awareness about the benefits of 5G remains limited among the general population.

Why 5G is Important for Cambodia’s Digital Economy?

5G is more than just faster internet; it represents a foundation for a tech-driven economy.

Cambodia’s government has recognized this through the Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035, which focuses on advancing a knowledge-based economy.

• Economic Transformation: The transition to 5G will enable industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and agriculture to integrate advanced digital tools, thereby promoting productivity and efficiency.
• Investment Attraction: Stronger connectivity draws foreign investors who prioritize digital infrastructure, potentially boosting Cambodia’s position as a desirable destination for businesses.
• Inclusion and Growth: High-speed internet access can help bridge the rural-urban digital divide, enabling citizens in remote areas to access essential services and opportunities in the digital economy.

How 5G Benefits Individuals and Organizations in Cambodia

The impacts of 5G will be transformative, touching multiple facets of daily life, business, and community interactions. Here’s a closer look at how 5G could impact various sectors:

• Education: 5G opens up access to real-time, interactive online learning and virtual classrooms. Students in remote areas will have access to digital libraries, language learning apps, and live streaming of educational events.
• Healthcare: Telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, and virtual consultations require stable, high-speed connectivity. In Cambodia, 5G can bring healthcare to underserved areas, allowing for quicker diagnoses and continuous patient care.
• Business: From retail to finance, 5G will improve customer experience with fast transaction speeds, and it can enhance operations by supporting IoT (Internet of Things) devices that streamline inventory and logistics.
• Daily Life: With faster speeds, people will enjoy smoother video streaming, more interactive social media experiences, and enhanced smart home systems, bringing more convenience and connectivity into daily routines.

The Future of 5G in Cambodia

As Cambodia gears up for a 5G-enabled future, several developments are anticipated:

• Smart City Initiatives: Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, may soon see smart city projects integrating IoT, which depends on 5G for real-time monitoring of traffic, air quality, and public safety.
• Growth in Digital Services: A robust 5G network is likely to give rise to digital services across sectors such as telemedicine, remote education, and online banking, creating new avenues for economic growth.
• Digital Workforce: 5G’s introduction could bring jobs in network management, cybersecurity, and software development, providing opportunities for skilled Cambodian professionals to engage in high-tech fields.
• Regional Competitiveness: As other Southeast Asian countries continue to advance digitally, Cambodia’s adoption of 5G will help it stay competitive, potentially positioning it as a tech-friendly nation ready to attract businesses and investments.

Conclusion

The journey to 5G is an exciting one for Cambodia, with potential benefits that could reshape the economy, enhance education, healthcare, and everyday life, and foster a more connected and inclusive society. With careful investment and planning, Cambodia is on the path to becoming a digitally resilient nation.

What are your thoughts on 5G in Cambodia? Have you had any experiences using it yet, or are you excited about the upcoming possibilities? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!

Read less