The event aimed to inform the stakeholders in Cambodia about the global AI Impact Summit being hosted by India in February 2026 and encourage dialogue on the transformative role of artificial intelligence in building an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable future.

The event was opened by the Ambassador of India to Cambodia, H.E. Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, who in his remarks spoke about the focus of the AI Impact Summit 2026 to amplify the voice of the Global South, ensuring that technological advancements and opportunities are shared broadly, not concentrated in a few regions. He underscored that “The Pre-Summit event, centered on the theme of People, Planet, and Progress, intends to highlight the Summit’s objectives and the potential of transformative AI to support inclusive growth, sustainable development, and innovation.”

The event was also attended by H.E. Hul Seingheng, Under Secretary, Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Cambodia. The speakers from Cambodia included Oknha Dr. CHHIN Ken, President of the Cambodia Digital Tech Association, and Dr. En Sovann, Director of the Digital Government Transformation Department, Digital Government Committee, Ministry of Post and Telecommunications. They spoke on the existing AI landscape in Cambodia and potential areas for AI-related cooperation between India and Cambodia.

The event also saw other distinguished speakers from India, including Mr. Ankit Bose, Head of NASSCOM AI, who presented the industry perspective on the AI scenario in India, and Mr. Anirban Sarma, Director of the Digital Societies Initiative, Observer Research Foundation (ORF), India, who discussed AI policy and the academic landscape in India.
Dr. Tanu Priya from the Embassy of India, Phnom Penh, delivered a presentation on the AI Impact Summit 2026 and its vision of shaping AI for humanity, ethics, and global impact.

The presentation discussed India’s efforts to make the AI Summit impactful by building upon the three foundational Sutras of people, planet, and progress. It was mentioned that the deliberations at the AI Impact Summit will be organized around seven interconnected chakras, areas of multilateral cooperation designed to channel collective energy toward holistic societal transformation.

These seven chakras represent focused domains of international collaboration that translate the broader principles of People, Planet, and Progress into concrete areas of action: Human Capital, Inclusion for Social Empowerment, Safe and Trusted AI, Resilience, Innovation and Efficiency, Science, Democratizing AI Resources, and AI for Economic Growth and Social Good. Together, they offer a comprehensive framework that enables countries, international organizations, and stakeholders to coordinate AI deployment strategies that enable the maximization of collective benefits while still addressing shared challenges.

The event witnessed participation from more than 60 attendees, including representatives from the Royal Government of Cambodia, various universities, technology associations, and several technology- and AI-based companies in Cambodia, as well as presidents of Indian Chambers of Commerce in Cambodia. Anchored around the overarching theme of People, Planet, and Progress, the event reflected India’s commitment to promoting AI that supports human-centered development, environmental sustainability, and equitable technological advancement.

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The unprecedented alliance unites three major agreements running through 2028, positioning Cambodia as a regional hub for world-class performing arts while pioneering environmental accountability across all aspects of production, logistics, and audience experience.

The three-year collaboration with NagaWorld from 2025 to 2028 provides exclusive access to the 2,000-seat NABA Theatre at NagaWorld 2 for a series of cultural and entertainment events, beginning with Mozart’s Don Giovanni on December 12 and 14, 2025. The agreement includes venue support, hospitality services, and a revenue-sharing model that ensures sustainable growth for Cambodia’s opera scene.

In alignment with the festival’s carbon neutrality commitment, the Phnom Penh International Opera Festival has signed agreements with Vireak Buntham Express and TADA Cambodia to maximise the use of electric vehicles (EVs) for artist, technician, and VIP guest transportation throughout the production period. Vireak Buntham, operating Cambodia’s first electric luxury vans and buses between major cities, and TADA, with its expanding fleet of electric vehicles and zero-commission ride-hailing model, will provide low-emission ground transportation solutions that significantly reduce the festival’s mobility carbon footprint.

Under the artistic direction of His Royal Highness Prince Sisowath Ravivaddhana Monipong and renowned Italian director Vincenzo Grisostomi Travaglini, the festival will present three major productions: Don Giovanni (2025), La Bohème (2026), coinciding with the XXth Francophonie Summit, and La Traviata (2027).

The December 2025 production of Mozart’s Don Giovanni will be the world’s first opera to calculate and offset its complete carbon footprint—including not only staff and performers but also the travel and accommodation of the entire audience.

As part of this ambition, the Phnom Penh International Opera Festival is a proud signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, formally committing to measure, reduce, report, and offset its emissions in line with international best practice in sustainable travel and events. The 2025 edition will mobilise over 100 artists, musicians, technicians, and creative professionals from Cambodia and abroad, making it one of the largest and most environmentally engaged performing arts initiatives ever staged in the Kingdom.

“For what should be the first time worldwide, the total carbon footprint of the event will be measured comprehensively,” explains Jacques Guichandut, Production Director.

“This sets a new benchmark by covering all sources of impact, proving that world-class performance and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”

The production brings together over 100 international and local artists and technicians, including an Italian, French, Japanese, Korean, and Malaysian; a 40-member symphony orchestra featuring musicians from the Angkor Youth Orchestra Association; and circus and dance artists from Phare Ponleu Selpak.

The production has received the support of His Majesty Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, who wrote, “En me réjouissant de l’avancée de votre projet Don Giovanni, je vous félicite pour vos efforts constants pour la promotion de la musique et de l’amitié entre les peuples.”

The festival enjoys backing from the Institut Français du Cambodge, the Italian Business Chamber Cambodia (ITACHAM), EuroCham, and multiple tourism and cultural associations.

The transportation agreements with Vireak Buntham Express and TADA Cambodia demonstrate the festival’s holistic approach to sustainability. By maximising electric vehicle usage for ground transportation during the production and performance period, the festival significantly reduces emissions from one of the largest carbon sources in event logistics. Vireak Buntham’s electric luxury coaches and TADA’s EV fleet ensure that artists, technicians, VIP guests, and staff travel in comfort while minimising environmental impact.

The annual opera series at NABA Theatre aims to position Cambodia as a hub for high-level cultural events in Southeast Asia, attracting international audiences through exclusive packages with airline partners and engaging specialist press and cultural influencers.

“This festival is fully aligned with Cambodia’s strategy for cultural diplomacy and supports the nation’s emergence as a regional cultural platform,” the festival documentation states. The initiative contributes to Cambodia’s cultural soft power while providing sustainable development for local arts infrastructure and talent.

The three-year partnership establishes an annual cultural calendar at NABA Theatre, with plans to expand beyond opera to include international choral competitions in collaboration with INTERKULTUR, including a National Choir Contest during the 2026 Francophonie Summit and the Royal Choral Awards in 2027.

Profit distribution from productions prioritises sustainability, with 15% allocated to future performance reserves, 15% to training projects, and 10% to NGO and community initiatives, alongside fair compensation for producers (40%) and artists (20%).

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Cambodia is a country of origin, transit, and destination for migrant workers. In recent years, the incidence of transnational organized crime (TOC) has been increasing throughout Southeast Asia, including Cambodia. A growing number of migrant workers are being lured into countries under false pretenses and forced to work in illegal industries, including online scam centers.

In addition to human trafficking, money laundering, drug smuggling, and other activities are deeply intertwined in transnational crime, requiring coordinated efforts across the government.

The project’s primary focus is on improving the capacity of frontline officials at border points to identify, assess, and manage risks, including those that may be related to transnational crime. Additionally, the project will enable the provision of immediate assistance, such as shelter, food, and medical care, to vulnerable migrants in Cambodia.

Japan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Cambodia, UENO Atsushi, said, “Transnational organized crime, including human trafficking and online scams, is a serious and imminent challenge to this region today. It affects the country’s reputation as well as its social and economic activities. We need to address this challenge by enhancing cooperation among concerned parties and by strengthening the capacity of Cambodian authorities.”

“The Government of Japan believes that IOM’s expertise and know-how will contribute significantly to the prevention of transnational organized crime, the protection of human rights, and the safety in the region. We hope that the Cambodian side makes the best use of this program,” added Ambassador UENO.

Welcoming the project, Nellie Ghusayni, Chief of Mission of the International Organization of Migration (IOM) in Cambodia, said, “This project will not only enable us to provide urgent assistance to vulnerable migrants in Cambodia but will directly support the Royal Government of Cambodia in strengthening border governance. This is essential for enhancing border security, protecting the rights of all travelers, and addressing the increasing threats of transnational crime. IOM Cambodia is grateful to the Government of Japan for their generous support and commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.”

The project will run for 12 months and provide support to the General Department of Immigration and the General Commissariat of National Police of the Ministry of Interior, the General Department of Customs and Excises of the Ministry of Economics and Finance, the Ministry of Social and Veteran Affairs, and the National Committee for Counter Trafficking, among other key stakeholders.

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This event also marks two major milestones for BBC Media Action: 25 years of global impact and 21 years of dedicated service in Cambodia. These anniversaries underscore BBC Media Action’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities, promoting youth participation, and driving meaningful change. The BBC Media Action is thankful to audiences, local partners, funders, and the BBC who have been with this journey.

Empowering Young Cambodians Through Innovative Multimedia for Youth Initiative and Partnership Approach:
Since its inception in May 2021, Klahan9 SPACE has supported young Cambodians to get involved in public life and influence decision-making by equipping them with skills, knowledge, confidence, motivation, and networks and shifting negative attitudes about young people’s capabilities.

This youth-led project is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Embassy of Sweden Section Office in Phnom Penh (Sida) and uniquely combines the media and communication expertise of BBC Media Action with the long-standing and deeply rooted community experience of three local organizations—Youth Council Cambodia, Youth Resource Development Program, and Bophana Center—and is on target to make a positive contribution to youth participation in Cambodia. The project also works with local media outlets1 and broadcasting partners to disseminate positive messages that support young people at scale. With the guidance of the National Youth Policy and the support of the Ministry of Education Youth and Sports (MoEYS), SPACE continues to promote an environment where young people can thrive and lead.

Highlight of Insights Klahan9 SPACE has successfully reached over 2.4 million people across Cambodia through engaging media content and dynamic outreach activities. Survey results indicate that the project helped to promote civic participation and empower a new generation of young Cambodians to participate in civic life. The project audiences/ beneficiaries with higher exposure reported being significantly more likely to participate in civic life than those who had not been exposed to any Klahan9 media content or outreach intervention.

Negative gender and generational norms also evolved—young people reported feeling more supported, while elders began shifting their attitudes and behaviors, showing greater recognition of young people’s capabilities.

“I was not interested in sending my daughter to any meetings because I thought she was too young. After watching the drama, I realised that my daughter is at Kdep Ampil’s age too. Later, I encouraged her to join (community meetings), and she has attended twice already.” Mother, 42 years old, Takeo province.

An external evaluation conducted by an independent evaluator found that the Klahan9 SPACE project is a relevant, innovative, and unique programme in Cambodia in terms of its focus on strengthening youth’s civic engagement through media and communication. The project’s innovative approach and set of four mutually reinforcing workstreams, or ‘pillars’: media production, community outreach, media support and training, and research, were effective in engaging a broad spectrum of youth, including those from traditionally underserved communities.

BBC Media Action is the BBC‘s international charity harnessing the transformative power of media and communication to help deliver more connected and inclusive societies and a safer and more inhabitable planet. Working with partners around the world, BBC Media Action brings together a unique blend of creative, research, and international development expertise; deep local knowledge of our audiences in the places we work; and strong networks of local partners.

BBC Media Action has been delivering creative communication projects in Cambodia since 2003, addressing a range of development issues including climate change adaptation, risk communication, sexual and reproductive health, women’s entrepreneurship, youth economic security, youth empowerment, and civic engagement. BBC Media Action have done this through our popular and trusted brands Loy9 (Cool9), Love9, and Klahan9 (Brave9)—engaging young people and achieving impact through TV, social media, and community outreach work. We partner with civil society, local media, and government to deliver our work in the country.

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From 10 AM to 5:30 PM, the market will showcase over 75 local, sustainable brands spanning fashion, beauty, home decor, culinary arts, and more. Each vendor is carefully selected to align with CUL T’s mission to promote conscious living through products that are ethically designed and made with love right here in Cambodia.

Event Highlights

Sustainable Shopping: Discover handmade, ethical products for women, men, kids, beauty, home decor, and culinary arts, all produced by emerging local designers.
Meet the Makers: Engage with the creative minds behind the products and learn the inspiring stories that make each piece unique.
Live Performances: Enjoy festive tunes from the **Musica Felice choir** and DJ **Sound Advice**, adding to the lively holiday atmosphere.
Food & Beverages by Sofitel: Indulge in delicious Christmas-inspired snacks and drinks at the market’s Bar & Food Corner, and explore a selection of Sofitel’s renowned restaurants perfect for hungry shoppers and their families.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift or simply want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, CUL T’s Christmas Market is the place to be. Bring your friends and family, soak in the festive vibes, and celebrate the spirit of local craftsmanship and sustainability this holiday season.

• Date: Sunday, December 8th
• Time: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
• Location: Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
• Entry: Free
• Shops: 75+ sustainable brands
• Event link

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to support local businesses and find unique, ethical gifts for your loved ones this Christmas.

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Key representatives attended the signing ceremony, including Mr. Andrew Tay, President of SCC; Mr. Sandeep Majumdar, Founder and President of INCHAM; and Mr. Seng Bunvriak, President of the Cambodia Investor Contractor and Architect Association (CICAA), who spoke about the significance of this collaboration.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Andrew Tay, President of SCC, expressed enthusiasm for the new relationship, stating that he is excited to collaborate with the Cambodia Investor Contractor and Architect Association (CICAA) to address areas of focus in a way that is consistent with the vision and aims. The goal is to use each organization’s strengths to generate new opportunities and make a significant impact. By formalizing this relationship, SCC, INCHAM, and CICAA hope to bring two countries’ investors to Cambodia and effect constructive change.

“Through these MOUs, we are not simply signing documents; we are building the groundwork for a future in which our businesses may thrive together. We can build on each other’s skills, share insights, and create possibilities for our members and the communities we serve.” Andrew Tay stated.

He said, “As we embark on this journey together, let us embrace the spirit of Diwali—bringing light into our joint efforts and kindling the potential that exists within our associations. Together, we can accomplish amazing things.”

Sandeep Majumdar stated that the main goal of the MoUs will be to see how INCHAM can collaborate to bring in business for each other from the two respective countries, and he emphasizes that the main objective of this MOU is to arrange information of delegate between both countries to in hand business and how can collaborate to bring business closer together.

“We will organize business networking events as normally is done, and the purpose of these networking events is basically to get together, exchange cards, meet people who are in the same industry, and decide how we can cooperate together in the future,” he said.

Mr. Seng Bunvriak, President of the Cambodia Investor Contractor and Architect Association (CICAA), stated at the signing ceremony that the purpose of the MoUs was to foster collaboration among the three partners, allowing them to get to know each other better and work together to provide services and products.

“I feel that this Memorandum of Understanding is a crucial beginning step. While we have previously collaborated extensively, we aim to enhance our relationship and form a strategic collaboration based on mutual trust.” Bunvirak believes that linking investors to opportunities in Cambodia can boost investment in new ventures. “Through this memorandum, we anticipate more new investment projects, whether small, medium, or large.”

ABOUT

The Cambodia Investor Contractor and Architect Association (CICAA) represents Cambodian construction and architecture professionals. Its principal goal is to promote its members’ interests, facilitate networking opportunities, and contribute to the industry’s development. CICAA may also engage in advocacy, provide training and resources, and encourage collaboration among investors, contractors, and architects to promote construction industry standards and practices.

The Singapore Club Cambodia/Singapore Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (SCC) is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports Singaporeans and their families in Cambodia. The SCC fosters economic growth and strengthens bilateral ties between Singapore and Cambodia by facilitating trade and investment opportunities.

INCHAM is a private, non-profit organization established in February 2012. It offers a forum for Indian firms in Cambodia and India to interact and discover suitable partners, hence promoting mutual economic interests. INCHAM works with key business organizations in India and international chambers in Cambodia to organize business delegations, B2B meetings, and promote trade between the two nations. INCHAM has been led by its founder and president, Mr. Sandeep Majumdar, over the past decade.

Photo by: Engly Tuy

“The United States is a committed and reliable partner for protecting the cultural heritage of Cambodia,” Chargé Walker said. “Returning looted artifacts to their rightful home is the right thing to do.”

As of today, the United States government has facilitated the return of over 150 antiquities, including previous returns of the Hindu elephant god Ganesh statue and the 10th century “Skanda on a Peacock,” both on display at the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh.

These returns are possible under the bilateral cultural property memorandum of understanding between Cambodia and the United States, which both countries renewed in August 2023 for an additional five years. Since signing the first agreement in 2003, the United States has helped train heritage protection professionals, prevented pillaging of antiquities, and facilitated the return of looted artifacts from private collections and galleries throughout the United States.

U.S. cultural cooperation with Cambodia also includes $6 million in total investment for cultural preservation through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation and other projects. Activities have included restoring the 9th century temples of Phnom Bakheng in Angkor Archaeological Park and Preah Vihear Temple in northern Cambodia.

Photo by: U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh, Cambodia

To return to the present to celebrate the New Year, Ambassador Murphy and friends must learn to weave krama. This iconic Cambodian scarf has become a symbol of unity, resilience, and versatility. They are assisted on their journey by an Apsara, a celestial being from Khmer mythology, played by Chumvan Sodhachivy (Belle), an alumna of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).

Produced in partnership with Chef Nak Productions, the video features the music of D-Man and SmallWorld SmallBand.

U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh wishes our friends in Cambodia and across the world joy, prosperity, and health in the Year of the Dragon! We invite you to enjoy and share the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L444cLOoGKE

Photo by: U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The six organizations are The Alliance of Independent Journalists/AJI (Indonesia), National Union of Journalists of the Philippines/NUJP (Philippines), Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association/CamboJA (Cambodia), The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) and Gerakan Media Merdeka/GeramM (Malaysia), and Journalist Association Timor Leste/AJTL (Timor Leste).

The collaboration was launched through a Regional Conference on Monday, December 12, 2022, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, themed “Strengthening collaboration, defending press freedom in Southeast Asia”. The conference was also part of the commemoration of International Human Rights Day. The event was attended by around 100 participants from six countries involving journalist organizations, researchers, and international organizations.

The deterioration of the press freedom climate is shown by the strengthening of impunity for crime against journalists. According to the CPJ Impunity Index (2022), the Philippines and Myanmar are among the eleven countries considered “worst” in pursuing journalist killers. Media outlets in Southeast Asia face pressure from increasingly authoritarian governments, increased digital attacks, and a number of draconian laws that make it easy for journalists to be dragged to jail.

With the exception of Timor Leste, the press freedom rankings of most Southeast Asian countries according to RSF (2022) are above 100 or in ‘dangerous’ situations. Myanmar has the lowest ranking after the military coup in 2021, the Philippines is ranked 147th and Cambodia is 142nd after continuous attacks by the government. Indonesia is 117th, Thailand is 115th and Malaysia 113th.

Amid the growing threats to journalists’ safety, a number of journalist organizations in Southeast Asia still have the power to fight back. They play an important role in anti-impunity campaigns, advocating for journalists and media outlets targeted by attacks and driving the quality of independent journalism.

Secretary General of AJI Indonesia, Ika Ningtyas, said we must continue to see opportunities to work together despite the difficulties. Journalist organizations in Southeast Asia have a long experience of collaboration and this initiative must be revived immediately.  “Only by strengthening solidarity and collaboration, we can support each other to fight for press freedom in the region and in each country.”

Nop Vy, Executive Director of CamboJA said, “The regional collaboration is building strong prevention, protection and brings a strong voice to end impunity of crime against journalists.”

“Strengthened collaboration and shared experiences are critical for the region at a time when the media face numerous challenges from the State and non State actors,” CIJ Executive Director, Wathshlah G Naidu.

President of AJTL, Zevonia Vieira added that strengthening the networking in Southeast Asia to fight for the freedom of the press. “Also to collaborate in capacity building to develop to achieve the quality of journalism in each country.”

Jonathan De Santos, Chairman of the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines, highlighted that the work of solidarity within the journalism community and with underreported sectors in the Philippines, NUJP recognizes that the struggle for press freedom is not confined to borders. “Journalism organizations across Southeast Asia need to work together to keep each other safer and make each other stronger.

Photo by: CamboJA Facebook Page 

OCIC has partnered with Spectrum KH to bring together the country’s prominent fashion mavericks, Armada by Abello, The Privé, & Natacha Van to present Alta Moda a night of glamour, fashion, and a showcase of the architectural developments for Cambodia by OCIC as complementary to the craftsmanship and the artistry of three of the most prominent fashion brands.

The designers also interpreted and translated some projects of OCIC into fabulous outfits fit for the glamorous and stylish property investors. Alta Moda was a parade of glamourous luxe wear, and A-list guests proving that fashion and real estate naturally mix. Where to live and what to wear are indeed fundamental to everyone.

Ms. Lenen Mar Porras, Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) Head of Marketing and Creative said, “For many years, real estate wasn’t something to partner for a Fashion Show. The obvious ones were makeup and jewelry.”

She adds, “We are proud to share to all the guests and all the clients of Armada by Abello, The Privé, and Natacha Van that OCIC’s developments and projects can provide the perfect blend of an attractive investment and a desirable lifestyle and carry a distinct merit of confidence, particularly in markets where buyers don’t know who to trust for their investments.”

Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) is currently the largest and leading property developer in Cambodia by its investment size and several projects developed. The company’s core expertise is in real estate development, satellite city, and property management, with notable projects such as the New Phnom Penh International Airport, Diamond Island City, Norea Island, and Chroy Changvar Satellite City and Olympia City Complex.

Photo by: Engly Tuy (Sakura)