• My Saves
  • My Feed
  • My Interests
  • Advertise
  • Governing Body
  • From The Founder's Desk
  • Contact Us
The Better Cambodia
  • News
    NewsShow More
    Cambodia and Germany Launch Green Growth Initiative in Battambang, Marking 25 Years of Environmental Cooperation
    Cambodia and Germany Launch Green Growth Initiative in Battambang, Marking 25 Years of Environmental Cooperation

    Battambang, Cambodia – The Ministry of Environment and the German Embassy in…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia Attracts $4.2 Billion in Investments in First Five Months of 2025, Says PM Hun Manet
    Cambodia Attracts $4.2 Billion in Investments in First Five Months of 2025, Says PM Hun Manet

    Phnom Penh, June 20 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet announced a…

    By
    TBC
    Car Tyre Exports Surge 80% in Early 2025 Amid Manufacturing Expansion
    Car Tyre Exports Surge 80% in Early 2025 Amid Manufacturing Expansion

    Phnom Penh, June 21 — A robust increase in car tyre exports…

    By
    TBC
    UK Joins Mekong River Commission as Development Partner, Strengthens Regional Climate Resilience Efforts
    UK Joins Mekong River Commission as Development Partner, Strengthens Regional Climate Resilience Efforts

    Phnom Penh – In a significant move to address climate vulnerabilities in…

    By
    TBC
    CCDYA and Influencers with 10 Million Followers Join Hands to Promote “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” Campaign
    CCDYA and Influencers with 10 Million Followers Join Hands to Promote “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” Campaign

    Phnom Penh — The Cambodia-China Digital Youth Association (CCDYA), in collaboration with…

    By
    TBC
  • Editors Pick
    Editors PickShow More
    Cambodia’s Steady Commitment to Peace and Law in the Face of Border Challenges

    In recent days, changes along the Cambodia–Thailand border have drawn regional attention.…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Fiscal Discipline Builds Confidence for Growth and Investment

    Cambodia is steadily earning a reputation for sound financial management and disciplined…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Trade Resilience: Turning U.S. Tariff Hikes into Regional Growth Opportunities
    Cambodia’s Trade Resilience: Turning U.S. Tariff Hikes into Regional Growth Opportunities

    On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariff increases…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Rise as a Manufacturing and Investment Hub: A Global Perspective

    In recent years, Cambodia has emerged as a preferred destination for manufacturing…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Cambodia’s Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

    Cambodia is taking remarkable strides towards environmental conservation, as demonstrated by the…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • Stories
    StoriesShow More
    The Timeless Tale of Vorvong and Sorvong: A Glimpse into Khmer Folklore

    The epic Khmer folklore of Vorvong and Sorvong stands out, weaving a…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Empowering Cambodian Youth: Anjali House’s Mission to Shape Futures

    In the heart of Siem Reap, Anjali House, a community learning center…

    By
    Nadalena DeJulio
    Life’s Journey: A Bike Ride Around Tonle Sap Lake

    In a remarkable display of strength and determination, Pheak Keo embarked on…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Phare Creative Studio: 15 Years of Cambodian Creations for Social Good

    Phare Creative Studio (PCS) is a social business that has been operating…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Dieng Dorm: The Muffin Man of Siem Reap

    Have you ever heard of the Muffin Man, SiemReap? He lives in…

    By
    Pisey Roeurm
  • Business
    BusinessShow More
    Starbucks Isn’t Just Brewing Coffee It’s Running a Bank in Disguise

    When you think of Starbucks, you probably imagine friendly baristas, cozy interiors,…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    PM Hun Manet Reinforces Pro-Business, Pro-Environment Agenda at Ford Plant Opening

    PURSAT, April 22 – Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet reiterated…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia’s Economy to Grow by 6.1% in 2025 and 6.2% in 2026, Says ADB Report
    Cambodia’s Economy to Grow by 6.1% in 2025 and 6.2% in 2026, Says ADB Report

    Phnom Penh, Apr. 9 – Cambodia’s economy is set to maintain a…

    By
    TBC
    EU and IFAD Announce €80 Million Investment to Modernise Cambodia’s Agricultural Sector
    EU and IFAD Announce €80 Million Investment to Modernise Cambodia’s Agricultural Sector

    The European Union (EU), in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB)…

    By
    TBC
    Cambodia’s Rise as a Manufacturing and Investment Hub: A Global Perspective

    In recent years, Cambodia has emerged as a preferred destination for manufacturing…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • Opinion Piece
    Opinion PieceShow More
    Cambodia’s Automotive Rise: A New Chapter in Industrial Transformation

    Over the past few decades, Cambodia has undergone a remarkable transition from…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    How Cambodian Entrepreneurs Can Successfully Set Up a Business in the United Kingdom, A Strategic Guide to Growth and Bilateral Benefits

    The United Kingdom continues to be a global leader in business, innovation,…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Trade Framework: A Gateway to Global Markets

    Over the past two decades, Cambodia has methodically established a robust regulatory…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    Cambodia’s Cashew Industry, A Future of Growth and Prosperity

    Cambodia’s agricultural sector is experiencing a strong rise in cashew production, making…

    By
    Jas Sohl
    INDO-PACIFIC IN SHARP FOCUS

    Conventional wisdom among scholars and diplomats is that the world cannot afford…

    By
    Dr Mohan Kumar
  • Press Release
    Press ReleaseShow More
    Ucare Expands Footprint With New Pharmacies at the Techo International Airport and in Koh Pich
    Ucare Expands Footprint With New Pharmacies at the Techo International Airport and in Koh Pich

    June 2025, Koh Pich, Phnom Penh – Ucare Pharmacy, Cambodia’s leading pharmaceutical…

    By
    TBC
    Wing Bank Launches a Branch in Koh Kong
    Wing Bank Launches a Branch in Koh Kong

    Wing Bank (Cambodia) Plc has further expanded its nationwide presence with the…

    By
    TBC
    Techo International Airport Welcomes Business Delegation Led by French Ambassador
    Techo International Airport Welcomes Business Delegation Led by French Ambassador

    Phnom Penh, June 8, 2025 - The future Techo International Airport (TIA)…

    By
    TBC
    CIMB Singapore and Wing Bank Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Cross-Border Financial Services Between Singapore and Cambodia
    CIMB Singapore and Wing Bank Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Cross-Border Financial Services Between Singapore and Cambodia

    CIMB Singapore and Wing Bank (Cambodia) Plc have entered a strategic partnership…

    By
    TBC
    ASEAN Forum Honours OCIC, Pung Kheav Se, and Thierry Tea for Outstanding Business Impact and Leadership
    ASEAN Forum Honours OCIC, Pung Kheav Se, and Thierry Tea for Outstanding Business Impact and Leadership

    May, 2025, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — At the ASEAN Leadership & Partnership Forum 2025 in…

    By
    TBC
  • Visit Cambodia
    Visit CambodiaShow More
    Tourism in Cambodia Surges 13.6% with Over 2 Million Visitors in First Four Months of 2025
    Tourism in Cambodia Surges 13.6% with Over 2 Million Visitors in First Four Months of 2025

    Phnom Penh, Cambodia — Despite persistent global uncertainties surrounding geopolitics, economic fluctuations,…

    By
    TBC
    Stung Treng to Host Inaugural Dolphin Festival and Kayak Races
    Stung Treng to Host Inaugural Dolphin Festival and Kayak Races This Weekend

    Stung Treng, Cambodia – In a move to boost sustainable tourism and…

    By
    TBC
    Visak Bochea Day in Cambodia
    Visak Bochea Day in Cambodia: Sacred Ceremony Held at Oudong’s Buddha Stupa

    Oudong, Kandal Province – May 11, 2025: Cambodia observed Visak Bochea Day…

    By
    TBC
    Khmer New Year Celebrated at Cambodian Embassy Event in Nagoya, Japan with Nearly 10,000 Attendees

    The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, in collaboration with the Royal…

    By
    TBC
    In Pictures: Angkor Sangkranta 2025 Opened by Prime Minister Hun Manet in Siem Reap
    In Pictures: Angkor Sangkranta 2025 Opened by Prime Minister Hun Manet in Siem Reap

    The Angkor Sangkranta 2025 celebrations were officially inaugurated on Monday, April 14,…

    By
    TBC
  • History
    HistoryShow More
    Cambodia Discovers 67 Fossil Sites in 13 Provinces, Including First Dinosaur Bone
    Cambodia Discovers 67 Fossil Sites in 13 Provinces, Including Its First-Ever Dinosaur Bone

    Major Discovery Highlights the Kingdom’s Ancient Natural Heritage

    By
    TBC
    Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries in Cambodia Since 2000 – Unearthing the Kingdom’s Hidden Treasures

    Cambodia, a land of ancient wonders and rich cultural heritage, has been…

    By
    TBC
    Khmer Script
    Decoding the Cambodian Alphabet (Khmer Script) – One of the World’s Most Intricate Scripts

    The Cambodian alphabet, widely known as the Khmer script, is not just…

    By
    TBC
    The Mandala: A Political Model of Southeast Asian History

    The concept of the "Mandala" in Southeast Asian political history offers a…

    By
    Surya Narayan
    Discovering the Rich Prehistoric Heritage of Laang Spean: Cambodia’s Cave of Bridges

    Laang Spean, located atop the scenic limestone hill of Phnom Teak Treang…

    By
    Surya Narayan
  • 🔥
  • Invest In Cambodia
  • Unsung Heroes/ Impact
  • The Better Asia
  • Agriculture
  • Technology
  • Places to Visit
  • Sustainability
Font ResizerAa
The Better CambodiaThe Better Cambodia
Search
  • Home
  • Stories
  • News
  • Startups
  • Cambodian Brands
  • Unsung Heroes/ Impact
  • Sustainability
  • Artisans of Cambodia
  • Invest In Cambodia
  • Guests Posts
  • The Better Asia
  • Governing Body
  • From The Founder’s Desk
  • Contact us
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
  • My Saves
  • My Interests
  • My Feed
© 2025 TBC Media. All Rights Reserved.
The Better Cambodia > Blog > Success Stories > Unsung Heroes/ Impact > Blaise Kilian: Illuminating Cambodia’s Economic Journey and Inspiring a Brighter Future
Must ReadSuccess StoriesUnsung Heroes/ ImpactVisit Cambodia

Blaise Kilian: Illuminating Cambodia’s Economic Journey and Inspiring a Brighter Future

Surya Narayan
Last updated: May 31, 2023 4:40 am
Surya Narayan
325 Views
Share
8 Min Read
SHARE

In the bustling economic hub and capital city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia, lies a hidden gem of historical and economic significance—the Cambodian Museum of Economy and Money, Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum, also known as SOSORO. This museum offers a unique journey through Cambodia’s economic history, showcasing the evolution of its monetary system over the past 2000 years. At the heart of this remarkable institution is Blaise Kilian, a French-Cambodian visionary and Co-Director of SOSORO. Blaise’s profound knowledge and unwavering dedication have made him an admired figure among intellectuals in Cambodia, as he works tirelessly towards the betterment of the country’s economic sector.

Contents
A Passion IgnitedDedication to EducationUNESCO and BeyondAdvocacy and LeadershipSOSORO Museum and the FutureUnlocking Cambodia’s Future through Education and Heritage at SOSORO Museum

A Passion Ignited

Blaise Kilian’s journey began in France, where he had the privilege of growing up in a multicultural environment due to his father’s civil service career. It was during his school days that Blaise developed a deep fascination for Cambodia, sparked by his Khmer classmates and the book written by King Father, His Majesty Norodom Sihanouk, entitled “Bittersweet Memories.”. Motivated by his newfound love for Cambodia, Blaise immersed himself in the Khmer language and culture, ultimately deciding to make Cambodia his home.

Dedication to Education

Upon his arrival in Cambodia in 1999, Blaise embarked on a path of meaningful engagement with the country. After working for a pioneering local airline, he spent two years as a lecturer in Economics  at the Royal University of Law and Economics (RULE), where he nurtured a generation of students and selected them for scholarships, instilling in them a sense of how hard work can pay off. Many of them have since then had outstanding careers in the public and private sectors. “It is rewarding to have made a small, yet meaningful contribution at the beginning of their success story”. . While continuing to teach, Blaise spent two short years writing press reviews at the French Embassy in Cambodia, where he enhanced his Khmer language skills and understanding of Cambodia’s socio-political landscape.

UNESCO and Beyond

Blaise’s background in Political Science and Economics, combined with his proficiency in the Khmer language, led him to work for the UNESCO office in Cambodia for an impressive nine years, coordinating projects dedicated to the documentation, conservation, and management of cultural heritage. This invaluable experience allowed him to delve deeper into Cambodia’s rich history, cultural heritage, and the intricacies of the Angkor temple complex, including from a tourism industry perspective. As a part of the intellectual community responsible for safeguarding these national treasures, Blaise coordinated  various publications, traveled throughout the country, broadened his knowledge base, and worked closely with the Cambodian authorities responsible for culture and tourism.

- Advertisement -

Advocacy and Leadership

Blaise’s passion for economic development and public-private partnerships found an outlet when he joined the European Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia as advocacy manager, then Deputy Director, and finally Executive Director. Engaging with different ministries on behalf of the private sector, he played a pivotal role in setting up a platform of public-private dialogue to promote an ever more enabling investment climate in Cambodia. His proudest realization is possibly the supervision of the acclaimed EuroCham White Books, three consecutive sets of recommendations on trade and investment policies that were widely praised by both the private sector and the government for the quality of their contents and their impact on the business landscape. 

SOSORO Museum and the Future

Blaise’s crowning achievement came with his involvement in the National Bank of Cambodia’s Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum – SOSORO. After obtaining Cambodian citizenship, he dedicated himself to this remarkable institution, which provides a divine haven for those interested in economics, monetary systems, history, and culture. “Having become a Cambodian citizen, it’s truly an honor to work for a national institution”. Blaise and his team work tirelessly to educate visitors, particularly young students, about Cambodia’s economic and monetary history, fostering a brighter future for the country. 

The Cambodian Museum of Economy and Money, Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum – SOSORO, offers a comprehensive exploration of Cambodia’s 2000-year history, providing valuable insights into its origins and future trajectory. To truly grasp the nation’s historical journey, a visit to this museum is essential. In addition to its exhibits, SOSORO actively engages in knowledge dissemination by hosting conferences, making publications, and participating in book fairs throughout the country. The museum also participates in the National Bank of Cambodia’s efforts to promote the local currency, Riel, through various events throughout the country. Notably, SOSORO Museum belongs to and is entirely funded by the National Bank of Cambodia, highlighting its significance as a national cultural and educational institution.

Unlocking Cambodia’s Future through Education and Heritage at SOSORO Museum

Blaise Kilian, Co-Director of the SOSORO Museum, emphasizes the crucial role of education in a country’s progress. While stressing the importance of the Cambodian economy’s ongoing diversification and the need to create more value, he firmly believes that investing in education is essential for shaping a promising future. Blaise states, “Education is a catalyst for inclusive growth. Investing in education is paving the way towards a future of  shared prosperity” This quote underscores the significance of educational initiatives and their positive impact on a nation’s development.

While the SOSORO Museum is not free for all visitors, there is a nominal entrance fee that enhances the value of the visit. However, Blaise acknowledges the importance of making the museum accessible to students from different provinces, particularly those in rural areas. To facilitate their visits, he is currently working on creating opportunities for the private sector to sponsor state school visits, enabling rural children to explore and learn about their country’s history and financial system.

Blaise Kilian stands as a shining example of a visionary economist and an unsung hero in Cambodia. His passion for the country, tireless dedication, and profound knowledge have made him a respected figure among intellectuals. Through his role at the SOSORO Museum, Blaise not only enlightens visitors about Cambodia’s economic journey but also actively works towards shaping a better future for the nation.

Surya Narayan, Founder of The Better Cambodia with Blaise Kilian

“Blaise Kilian: A beacon of inspiration, his unwavering dedication to Cambodia and commitment to education illuminate the path to a prosperous future. His profound knowledge and tireless efforts make him a true unsung hero, shaping a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.”

Photos: Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum – SOSORO

Sign Up For Daily Newsletter

Be keep up! Get the latest breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.

Sign up for The Better Cambodia's newsletter to receive the latest articles and stories. Stay informed and inspired with our positive content!

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any buzzstream.
Share This Article
Facebook Whatsapp Whatsapp LinkedIn Telegram Email Copy Link Print
BySurya Narayan
Follow:
Founder at The Better Cambodia | Communication Advisor to the Minister attached to the Prime Minister of Cambodia | Marketing Director at True North Lean
Previous Article New Electric Motorcycle Assembly Plant Inaugurated in Cambodia to Promote Sustainable Transportation
Next Article World No Tobacco Day – A Call for a Healthier Future
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

- Advertisement -

You Might Also Like

CambodiaFestivalsGuests PostsOpinion PieceStoriesThe Better AsiaVisit Cambodia

The longest festival in Cambodia is celebrated for 15 days.

By
Pisey Roeurm
Visit Cambodia

I can walk anywhere in Cambodia without fear: Angelina Jolie

By
Clemy Balasoto
Cambodian BrandsStartupsUnsung Heroes/ Impact

“Tenbox” – Cambodia’s very own Digital Superstore

By
Surya Narayan
NewsSuccess Stories

Cambodian Youths Win ASEAN Youth Eco-Champions Awards

By
Surya Narayan
© 2025 TBC Media. All Rights Reserved.
No thanks.
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?

Not a member? Sign Up