The Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI) has taken a significant step towards enhancing technological innovation and connectivity in the ASEAN region by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China-ASEAN Information Harbor (CAIH) on 23 Oct 2024. This agreement aims to leverage advanced digital infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies to promote economic development and improve quality of life across the region.

H.E. Dr. Hul Seingheng, Undersecretary of State of the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI), witnessed the MoU signing and noted that the partnership builds on years of collaboration, which gained momentum after a MISTI delegation visited CAIH in June 2024. This visit laid the groundwork for today’s formalized agreement.

The Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1 focuses on five critical areas essential for national development: People, roads, water, electricity, and technology, especially digital technology. In alignment with this strategy, the Cambodia’s STI Roadmap 2030 prioritizes enhancing Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) governance, fostering human capital development, increasing investment in R&D, encouraging collective cooperation, and cultivating an STI ecosystem.

“This agreement is another milestone in our efforts to enhance digital cooperation and strengthen Cambodia's Science, Technology, and Innovation ecosystem,” said H.E. Seingheng. “It aims to increase digital connectivity and the exchange of expertise that will benefit both Cambodia and the ASEAN region.”

Leveraging CAIH's skills in the digital economy, intelligent interconnection, and data interoperability, the MoU highlights key areas of collaboration, including:

• Advanced Digital Infrastructure: CAIH will support the development of state-of-the-art digital systems to drive innovation and improve regional connectivity.
• Boosting the Digital Economy: Both parties will focus on sectors such as healthcare and tourism, utilizing digital technologies to spur economic growth and elevate living standards.
• Knowledge Sharing: The partnership will facilitate ongoing exchange of technological expertise and innovation insights.

Mr. Kong Mengke, Deputy General Manager of CAIH International, expressed enthusiasm for the MoU’s potential. He said, “To implement these areas of cooperation, we propose to prioritize the development of a digital government. The next step will be to create a smart governance platform.”

“We strive to be a ‘super connector’ of industries, resources, and customers, positioning ourselves as enablers of digital transformation and leaders of the Digital Silk Road,” said Mr. Kong Mengke.

The China-ASEAN Information Harbor (CAIH) is a digital tech company approved by China’s State Council in April 2016 in line with the 'Belt and Road' Initiative. Its mission is to build and operate the Digital Silk Road and Digital Guangxi, promoting closer ties between China and ASEAN and supporting the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.