Cambodia is determined to build a vibrant and resilient innovation ecosystem, paving the way for sustainable growth and competitive advantage. In pursuit of this vision, the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) has released a comprehensive report titled “Industrializing Cambodia: Enterprises Embracing Technological Advancement.” This 49-page report highlights key recommendations to support the private sector, academia, and policymakers in their mission to foster innovation.
In the report, a range of technologies and platforms have been identified as crucial for the development of Cambodia’s enterprises. The private sector is urged to embrace a mobile-first strategy, leverage cloud-based solutions, explore the potential of the Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor technology, utilize radio-frequency identification technology, harness the power of data analytics, and prioritize cybersecurity measures.
For agricultural enterprises, the report underscores the importance of embracing technologies such as cloud computing, robotics, blockchain, and weather tracking. Furthermore, the report encourages the provision of additional support and guidance to new enterprises, acknowledging their unique challenges and potential.
Manufacturing enterprises are advised to adopt technologies like machine-to-machine communication, real-time location systems, and embrace the potential of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). The report also emphasizes the need for in-house training and education platforms to empower the workforce and drive technological advancements.
Trade and service enterprises are recommended to adapt to emerging technologies and re-evaluate their return on investment (ROI) calculations. Furthermore, platforms for sharing knowledge and skills are encouraged to foster a collaborative environment.
The report emphasizes the significance of investing in research and development (R&D), as it plays a pivotal role in generating knowledge and innovative technologies that cater to local demands. It is also highlighted that Cambodia’s enterprises require a highly competent and adaptable workforce. To address this need, the report suggests collaboration between the private sector and educational institutions, including higher education establishments and technical and vocational training schools, to develop joint curricula that align with immediate demand.
Minister Cham Prasidh, who leads MISTI, affirms the vital role of technology in driving human civilization and development. He articulates that embracing science, technology, and innovation (STI) is a pathway to sustainable growth and gaining a competitive edge. Underlining Cambodia’s commitment to harnessing STI for socio-economic development, the Ministry and the National Council of Science, Technology, and Innovation (NCSTI) have been established to govern and promote the sector.
Prasidh stresses the importance of strengthening linkages between academia, research institutions, private sectors, and development partners, while enhancing the capacity and skills of human resources in STI. Creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship and raising awareness on the benefits of STI are also key components of Cambodia’s efforts.
The Ministry has introduced several policy instruments such as Cambodia’s STI Roadmap 2030, National Research Agenda 2025, and Technology Roadmaps, among others, to facilitate technology adoption and transfer. These tools, accompanied by a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework and Guideline for STI Policy, provide a solid foundation for comprehensive efforts from all stakeholders to propel Cambodia’s transformation from a labor-intensive to a technology-based development approach.
Minister Cham Prasidh expresses his high appreciation for the report and urges relevant stakeholders, particularly the private sector, academia, and policymakers, to utilize it as a valuable reference for strategic planning and decision-making. He reinforces the urgent need for increased investment in technology development among enterprises, with a commitment from MISTI to leverage technologies for strategic top sectors in the short and medium term, while fostering technology transfer from R&D to ensure long-term resilience. The Minister reaffirms that the adoption and transfer of technology is not just an accessory but a necessity for both public and private institutions in Cambodia’s future.
This scientific study demonstrates Cambodia’s unwavering dedication to embracing innovation and leveraging technology for sustainable development. Through collaborative efforts, informed decision-making, and strategic planning, Cambodia is positioning itself as a force to be reckoned with in the global innovation landscape.
