Cambodia has announced a major step in its digital future by officially setting 2026 as the launch year for commercial fifth generation mobile telecommunications services. The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications revealed the timeline following strategic collaborations with friendly nations and development partners. The plan was formally unveiled at a ceremony presided over by Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth, underscoring the Royal Government’s strong commitment to accelerating digital transformation. Officials view this rollout as a critical milestone that will open the door to faster, more reliable, and more innovative digital services across the nation.

Transformational Economic and Social Impact of 5G Technology

According to the MPTC, the arrival of 5G is expected to generate wide ranging benefits for Cambodia’s economy and society. With data speeds projected to reach up to ten times faster than 4G, the technology will significantly enhance digital experiences such as download speeds, high definition video streaming, and real time applications. Lower latency will support critical functions like intelligent traffic management and emergency response systems. The expanded connectivity capacity will allow millions of devices to operate within a single square kilometre, establishing a strong foundation for Smart Cities, Digital Agriculture, and Smart Manufacturing. Authorities believe this advancement will drive productivity, strengthen digital ecosystems, and support key sectors including manufacturing, fintech, logistics, e commerce, and tech startups.

Strengthening Public Services and Boosting Investment Appeal

The nationwide introduction of 5G is also expected to raise the quality of public services by making e health, e education, and e government platforms more accessible, efficient, and citizen friendly. By strengthening digital readiness and enhancing service reliability, the Royal Government anticipates attracting increased foreign direct investment. This investment influx would support high value job creation and improve Cambodia’s competitiveness in regional and global markets. As the MPTC stated, “5G is not merely faster internet. It is a foundational digital infrastructure that will underpin Cambodia’s future innovation, modernisation, and inclusive digital growth.” The ministry confirmed that extensive studies have been completed to ensure smooth deployment, with domestic telecom operators preparing for the technical transition ahead of 2026.

Cambodia to Develop First 100 Hectare Digital Hub

Alongside the 5G rollout, Cambodia is advancing another major initiative with the establishment of its first 100 hectare digital hub. Announced by Minister of Post and Telecommunications Chea Vandeth at the Digital Government Forum 2025, the project aims to position the country as a regional centre for digital innovation. Representing Prime Minister Hun Manet, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth presided over the event where the government emphasized its vision of reducing paper usage, expanding digital transformation, and strengthening Cambodia’s reputation on the global stage. Minister Vandeth noted, “The project aims to transform Cambodia into a digital hub to promote transformation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development in the digital sector. It is designed to support startups, modernize education, provide robust data infrastructure, and attract investment companies, particularly by creating an ecosystem that links education and training with industries in the digital sector.”

Building a Skilled Digital Workforce for the Future

The new digital hub is planned to become a dynamic centre for entrepreneurship, advanced digital infrastructure, and integrated digital industry development. It aligns with the government’s commitment to developing a technology ready workforce. Currently, around 1,650 students and civil servants are receiving digital skills training, while more than 3,500 top performing students are benefiting from digital scholarships at partner universities. The ministry has also trained approximately 13,000 officials nationwide and is preparing a financial aid programme to support students without scholarships. Investments in education include pilot digital classrooms in 60 primary schools, community technology centres in high schools, and upgraded facilities in higher education institutions. The ministry continues to champion digital literacy, curriculum development, and youth participation in digital initiatives. Under the Digital Skills Development Roadmap, Cambodia aims to train at least 100,000 digital professionals over the next decade, reflecting a national commitment to building an inclusive and innovative digital economy.

Cambodia is taking a bold leap toward becoming a regional technology powerhouse with plans to develop its first-ever 100-hectare digital hub, a landmark initiative announced by Minister of Post and Telecommunications Chea Vandeth. Revealed during the opening of the “Digital Government Forum 2025 and Related National and International Events,” the project, presided over by Vongsey Vissoth, Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Minister-in-Charge of the Office of the Council of Ministers, underscores the government’s long-term commitment to digital transformation, reduced paper dependency, and enhanced global competitiveness. According to Minister Vandeth, “The project aims to transform Cambodia into a digital hub to promote transformation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development in the digital sector. It is designed to support startups, modernize education, provide robust data infrastructure, and attract investment companies, particularly by creating an ecosystem that links education and training with industries in the digital sector,” emphasizing the strategic intent behind the initiative.

A Strategic Vision for Innovation, Startups, and Digital Readiness

The upcoming digital hub is envisioned as a multi-purpose ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurship, encourages innovation, and supports new business growth. Its advanced infrastructure and integrated approach will directly connect digital industries with education and training institutions, creating a seamless pipeline for digital skills development and job creation. By attracting investors and providing a modern environment for startups, the government aims to build a dynamic digital economy capable of competing on a global scale.

Strengthening Human Capital Through Digital Skills Training

To support this vision, the government is heavily investing in human capital. Currently, around 1,650 students and civil servants are enrolled in digital skills training aligned with national policy, while more than 3,500 top-performing students, those earning A, B, and C grades, have been awarded scholarships for digital programmes at partner higher education institutions. Minister Vandeth noted that the ministry has already trained approximately 13,000 officials nationwide and is preparing a financial-aid programme to ensure students without scholarships can still access essential digital courses at the higher-education level.

Expanding Digital Learning Infrastructure Across Cambodia

Infrastructure development is another major pillar of the digital transformation strategy. The ministry is implementing pilot digital classrooms in 60 primary schools, establishing technology centres in public high schools, and creating digital technology hubs within partner universities. These efforts are complemented by digital literacy campaigns, curriculum upgrades, and youth engagement programmes designed to ensure the next generation is fully equipped to thrive in the digital economy.

Long-Term Goal: Training 100,000 Digital Professionals

With the Digital Skills Development Roadmap as a guiding framework, Cambodia aims to produce at least 100,000 digital professionals over the next decade. This long-term target reflects the government’s recognition that skilled talent is the backbone of any successful digital economy. The new digital hub is expected to play a central role in achieving this ambition by serving as both a skills incubator and an innovation catalyst for Cambodia’s future workforce.

Metfone and Cisco Forge Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Cambodia’s Digital Future.

In a major milestone for Cambodia’s technology landscape, Metfone has officially entered a strategic partnership with Cisco, one of the world’s leading technology innovators to deliver next-generation ICT solutions to businesses, organizations, and government institutions nationwide. This collaboration marks a defining shift in Metfone’s evolution, transitioning from a traditional telecommunications operator into a fully integrated technology solutions provider capable of supporting Cambodia’s fast-growing digital ecosystem.

A New Technology Distribution Era for Cambodia

Under this strategic agreement, Metfone will take on a central role in distributing a full suite of Cisco’s advanced enterprise products and specialized technology solutions throughout Cambodia. This includes everything from high-level networking systems to industry-specific solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency across sectors. This expanded distribution power positions Metfone to offer a wider and more sophisticated product ecosystem than ever before.

Strengthening Customer Support Through Consulting and Deployment Services

A second major pillar of the partnership centers on Metfone’s commitment to providing top-tier consulting, deployment, and ongoing technical support to customers adopting Cisco technologies. This ensures Cambodian businesses receive world-class service quality from onboarding to long-term lifecycle management fully aligned with global standards. This enhanced support system will enable organizations to integrate new technologies more smoothly and maintain reliable digital operations as they scale.

Building a Nationwide Network of Partners and Distribution Channels

The third pillar focuses on expanding accessibility. Metfone will develop a robust network of distribution channels and local partners, enabling customers across all provinces and major cities to quickly and transparently access Cisco’s authentic products. With this decentralized market reach, even remote areas can benefit from reliable digital infrastructure, contributing to more inclusive national development.

Cisco’s Contribution: Technology, Training, and Market Development

In return, Cisco will equip Metfone with its latest portfolio of products, ensuring that Cambodian customers gain access to cutting-edge global innovations. Cisco will also implement comprehensive training programs to enhance Metfone’s workforce capabilities, including internationally recognized certifications. Beyond technology and training, Cisco will collaborate with Metfone on marketing strategies, market development initiatives, and national programs supporting Cambodia’s broader digital transformation agenda.

A Boost for Businesses, Government Agencies, and Consumers

The partnership offers tremendous value for Cambodia’s business community, government institutions, and end users. With stronger local expertise and faster access to world-class solutions, organizations can implement scalable, synchronized, and secure digital systems more efficiently. Consumers will also benefit from reliable, high-quality products backed by professionally trained local teams, ensuring authenticity, transparency, and trust.

Driving Cambodia’s Digital Transformation Forward

For Metfone, this collaboration represents a bold strategic leap forward, strengthening its competitive edge and positioning it as a leading national driver of digital transformation. By expanding its technology ecosystem, Metfone is now better equipped to support modern digital infrastructure demands, from enterprise modernization to nationwide digital government initiatives. More importantly, the partnership sets the stage for accelerated technological progress, helping Cambodian businesses and institutions embrace sustainable, efficient, and future-ready digital solutions.

A Testament to Metfone’s Long-Term Vision

Ultimately, the Metfone–Cisco alliance reflects Metfone’s enduring commitment to delivering high-value technology to Cambodian customers. More than a business agreement, this partnership underscores Metfone’s pioneering role in shaping Cambodia’s technological advancement and supporting the nation’s journey toward a more dynamic digital economy.

Source: https://www.information.gov.kh/articles/175575

MAFF Launches FARMBOOK App and Equips Agricultural Officials with Digital Tools.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has taken a major step toward digital transformation in Cambodia’s agricultural sector. To strengthen data-driven decision-making and improve service delivery, MAFF officially launched the FARMBOOK App – Android, & IOS) distributed digital tablets, and initiated orientation and digital training programs for local agricultural officers. This initiative represents the government’s ongoing efforts to modernize agriculture and ensure that local officials can effectively respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.

Read more: “Visit Angkor” Mobile App! Who Should Use it?

What Is the FARMBOOK App?

The FARMBOOK App is an innovative digital platform created to enhance agricultural data collection, reporting, planning, and decision-making, particularly in rural and remote communities. Designed to serve as a bridge between farmers and government agencies, the app enables commune agricultural officers to gather real-time data, evaluate regional production trends, and support evidence-based agricultural strategies.

The launching ceremony took place at the Royal University of Agriculture (RUA) and was presided over by Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Distinguished guests included Kong Marry, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF); Igor Driesmans, Ambassador of the European Union to Cambodia; Stefan Messerer, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Cambodia; and more than 1,200 commune agricultural officials.

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What You Need to Know

Minister Dith Tina congratulated newly appointed commune agricultural officers and reminded them of the importance of understanding national agricultural policies to better serve their communities. He highlighted that the digital tools and training would enhance their ability to assist farmers efficiently and improve agricultural outcomes.

“Commune agricultural officers must use these resources with a high sense of responsibility in providing advisory services to farmers in agricultural techniques, marketing, and economics,” Tina said.

The minister also encouraged officers to motivate farmers to form modern agricultural communities that focus on reducing production costs, improving livelihoods, and securing stable market prices.

Regarding the FARMBOOK App, Tina emphasized that the system’s development remains ongoing. MAFF is actively seeking additional funding to expand and upgrade the app to meet Cambodia’s evolving agricultural needs.

The digital training program, according to MAFF, aims to strengthen the capacity of local officials in data analysis and agricultural planning. With this training, officers can identify farmers’ needs, estimate input requirements, assess geographical conditions, and evaluate production volumes at the regional level.

Read more: What is the CHAKRA STEM App for? Cambodia’s Digital Tool for a Greener Future

All collected data will be consolidated at the national level, enabling the government to prepare strategic agricultural plans and implement timely interventions to address sector-wide challenges.

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.

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.