Cambodia is at a critical juncture in its development as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes a transformative force shaping industries, societies, and economies worldwide. Senior Minister Chhem Kieth Rethy, a leading expert in AI and humanities, has called for proactive measures to harness the benefits of AI while addressing its potential risks. His recent keynote at the National Assembly Palace underscored the urgency of preparing for this technological revolution through inclusive regulation, public education, and capacity-building.
The Double-Edged Sword of AI
Minister Chhem Kieth Rethy, who also serves as Chairman of the Economic, Social, and Cultural Council and Distinguished Professor at Camtech University, highlighted the dual nature of AI. “Text from ChatGPT is text without context or knowledge as it has no heart,” he remarked, cautioning that while AI offers immense potential, it also poses significant challenges.
He stressed the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration to establish a regulatory framework that balances innovation with ethical considerations. “Cambodia needs to invest more efforts and resources in building national capacity in adapting to the technological revolution and making use of AI for social and economic development,” he said.
Educating and Empowering Society
One of the minister’s key messages was the importance of educating the public about AI’s risks and benefits. Public awareness campaigns and targeted educational initiatives are essential to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to responsibly use AI tools.
In the education sector, AI holds the promise of revolutionizing learning experiences. By personalizing instruction to meet individual students’ needs, AI can enable learners to progress at their own pace and style. Furthermore, AI-powered tutoring systems can provide continuous support, ensuring students receive assistance whenever required.
However, Minister Kieth Rethy emphasized that these advancements must be accompanied by a strong focus on critical thinking, skilling, and reskilling. Preparing students and workers for an AI-driven society requires adaptive education systems that remain relevant amidst rapid technological change.
Ethical AI Development
Ethical considerations are pivotal in shaping AI’s impact on society. Minister Kieth Rethy proposed integrating moral frameworks derived from Buddhist teachings and Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. These principles can guide the responsible and ethical use of AI, aligning its development with societal values and well-being.
This approach can help Cambodia build a unique foundation for AI governance, rooted in cultural and moral values that promote fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Call for Legislative Action
Lawmakers play a crucial role in preparing Cambodia for an AI future. Minister Kieth Rethy called on parliamentarians to enact inclusive and forward-looking laws that protect human interests while fostering innovation. He emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder dialogue, ensuring that policies reflect diverse perspectives and priorities.
“Cambodia needs to inform and educate the public about the risks associated with AI and help prepare them to responsibly use AI tools,” he said, urging a collective effort to build the nation’s capacity for technological adaptation.
Collaborative Efforts for a Smarter Future
The lecture, coordinated by Chheang Vannarith, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Assembly, drew over 50 lawmakers and 60 Secretariat-General staff. It marked a significant step in initiating dialogue on Cambodia’s AI preparedness.
As AI continues to redefine the global landscape, Cambodia’s ability to harness its potential will depend on strategic investments in education, infrastructure, and regulation. By addressing the challenges and opportunities of AI proactively, the nation can position itself as a competitive player in the digital economy.
Share Your Thoughts
What do you think about Cambodia’s readiness for an AI-driven future? How can the government, educational institutions, and businesses collaborate to ensure AI benefits all Cambodians? Share your opinions and ideas in the comments below!