Phnom Penh — The Cambodia-China Digital Youth Association (CCDYA), in collaboration with 16 influential Cambodian-Chinese Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) with a combined online following of over 10 million, has launched a new initiative to promote Cambodian tourism—particularly during the Green Season—to both Chinese and global audiences.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting in Phnom Penh on June 17, attended by H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism; Oknha Nito H. Lim and Mr. LI Zhen, Co-Chairs of CCDYA; and 16 prominent KOLs from Cambodia and China. The discussion focused on strategies to showcase Cambodia’s tourism offerings through creative digital content and targeted campaigns.
One of the central themes was the “Visit Cambodia in the Green Season” campaign, which aims to position Cambodia as a desirable year-round destination, with special emphasis on the lush beauty and cultural vibrancy of the rainy season. The campaign leverages the KOLs’ digital influence to reach younger audiences, especially in China’s Yunnan Province, and further afield through platforms such as Douyin, TikTok, Weibo, and YouTube.
In his remarks, H.E. Minister Huot Hak expressed deep appreciation for CCDYA and the participating influencers’ commitment to promoting Cambodian tourism and culture. He noted their role not only in attracting tourists but also in combating misinformation by sharing authentic and engaging content that highlights Cambodia’s peaceful society, political stability, growing infrastructure, and rich culinary and cultural offerings.
“Through your digital presence and creative storytelling, you are helping the world see Cambodia as a welcoming, safe, and beautiful destination,” he told the assembled KOLs.
The meeting also included preparations for the upcoming “Z Generation Lancang-Mekong Short Video XIU Event,” which will serve as a key platform to further showcase Cambodia’s appeal to Chinese-speaking audiences.
Additionally, both sides discussed the potential for formalising their cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding, with a shared vision of expanding digital tourism promotion efforts and fostering long-term cultural exchange.
In a significant move to solidify this momentum, H.E. Minister Huot Hak voiced full support for CCDYA’s proposal to organise a Cambodia-China KOL event in September–October 2025. This initiative will align with the broader framework of the Cambodia-China Tourism Year, officially launched on May 24, 2025.
As Cambodia continues to expand its digital diplomacy and tourism outreach, such collaborations between government, youth associations, and social media influencers are expected to play a pivotal role in revitalising the country’s tourism sector and creating a lasting impression on international visitors.
