Kuy Teav Tuk Tak (គុយទាវតុកតាក់) — does this ring a bell? For those born in the 1970s, the name likely brings back cherished memories. Once a staple of Cambodian street food culture, Kuy Teav Tuk Tak was sold from mobile carts, with vendors signaling their arrival by rhythmically clacking a piece of wood against bamboo, creating the signature tuktak sound. This distinct sound became a familiar nighttime melody in neighborhoods. However, as Cambodia has modernized, this beloved tradition has faded. Now, Haiven Angkor Restaurant, founded by Mrs. Hour Sokanha’s family in 2002, is reviving this nostalgic experience with a contemporary twist. Instead of a cart, they introduce a Kuy Teav food truck; bringing the same warmth and authenticity of Kuy Teav Tuk Tak but in a more convenient, modern format. The truck retains the signature “tuk tak” sound, preserving the nostalgia essence while ensuring that busy individuals whether office workers, students, or parents, can enjoy a steaming bowl of Kuyteav without the hassle of dining in. The truck will arrive in the morning to the customer’s doorstep, making this dish more accessible than ever. Additionally, the restaurant upholds high commitment to quality by sourcing fresh, local ingredients daily. All soups are freshly cooked and simmered for hours before serving, creating a deep, rich flavor in every bowl. Whether customers prefer pork, beef, seafood, or braised pork, each bowl is crafted to maintain the rich flavors and freshness that define authentic Kuyteav. Additionally, the food truck prioritizes environmental sustainability by reducing plastic waste by using reusable bowls. Customers are also encouraged to bring their bowl. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742116800/_4eec2fd483.jpg" alt="គុយទាវ.jpg" width="1261" height="1021"> The restaurant also integrates digital solutions such as online ordering through mobile apps like Foodpanda, Nham24, and Facebook. Customers can schedule pickups, opt for doorstep delivery, or simply wait for the truck’s arrival in their neighborhood. And for those who prefer a more traditional dining experience, Haiven Angkor’s restaurant remains open for dine-in service. Last but not least, this food truck also serves as a mobile cultural ambassador, as the truck is designed and decorated with bamboo plates to support the weaving community, and&nbsp; also features a lotus design in its logo, symbolizing Cambodian cultural richness. With Haiven Angkor, no matter how busy life gets, Kuyteav lovers can always savor a bowl of this comforting dish without compromise. Written by: Khoun Pichponleukanika, Researcher at Angkor Social Innovation Park <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742116874/_aa5d9f2131.jpg" alt="ហៃវិន.jpg" width="1280" height="720">

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Kuy Teav Tuk Tak: 1970s Street-Style Kuy Teav Revived by Haiven

Ms. Chhonn Konhing started her business with a clear goal which is to support women weavers in her community while addressing critical social challenges.With a passion for improving lives through traditional weaving, she created TAAN Weaves as a platform to empower women and preserve Cambodia’s cultural heritage.Located in Taan Commune, Kralanh District, about 60 kilometers from Siem Reap town, TAAN Weaves began in March 2021 with five women weavers from Taan and Ta Leng villages. The business focuses on creating high-quality, handmade woven products while addressing social and economic issues in the community.The weaving process starts with the selection of high-quality, locally sourced materials such as cotton and natural dyes to ensure sustainability and authenticity. The cotton is carefully cleaned, spun, and dyed using eco-friendly methods, often relying on plant-based dyes to reduce environmental impact.Once the fibers are prepared, skilled artisans use traditional wooden looms to weave intricate patterns, inspired from Cambodia’s cultural heritage. Each piece is a testament to the time-honored tradition of weaving, which the business strives to preserve and promote.Through its work, the business aims to generate regular income for women weavers, enabling them to support their families and improve their quality of life. By increasing household income, the business helps families invest in their children’s education, reducing dropout rates and creating opportunities for the next generation.More than just a business, TAAN Weaves serves as a source of empowerment for the women in its community. It encourages them to take pride in their work, contribute to their families’ well-being, and build stronger, more resilient communities. At the same time, the business provides customers with the opportunity to experience the beauty and authenticity of handmade woven products, making every purchase meaningful.Ms. Chhonn Konhing is also a candidate of i-Stories, an initiative organized by Angkor Social Innovation Park. Through this program, she aims to integrate innovation into her weaving operations by incorporating block printing techniques to create unique designs on her woven products. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the products but also ensures they remain environmentally friendly, aligning with her vision of combining tradition with sustainability.Written by: Sovann Tepy, Researcher at Angkor Social Innovation Park<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742115510/DSC_05573_376b11a8f9.jpg" alt="DSC05573.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742115513/DSC_07603_1c40dc1c89.jpg" alt="DSC07603.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742115509/DSC_07566_e8609ce55d.jpg" alt="DSC07566.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">

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From Threads to Hope

Each year the fast fashion industry has generated million tonnes of waste and within Cambodia alone generated 136,000 tonnes of fabric waste. By foreseeing this problem in the fashion industry, Champa Champa, a local hand-craft brand located in Siem Reap province, does it the opposite way. They transform the wasted fabric scrap into creative and sustainable products. This local brand was established in late 2020 during the covid pandemic as an online business which later grew into a physical store in early 2022. They positioned themselves as a local brand that promotes sustainability through reusable and recyclable products.&nbsp;Founded by Mrs. Chhuon Champa who has been very passionate in embroidery and patchworks since childhood and she incorporates this beauty of hand-craft into every piece of her product. The business started by making customized tote bags with a very unique embroidery design selling through Mrs. Champa social media platforms. However, those early stages weren't as smooth as it seems. Back then the brand did not receive that much support and encountered discouraging comments on her products. Regardless of those setbacks, Mrs. Champa focuses on advancing her design skill and prioritizing customers feedback to scheming a product that’s not just unique but also practical and durable for the customer's usage.&nbsp;By having a massive supply of fabric scrap from the garment manufacturers in Phnom Penh, it broadened the opportunity for Champa Champa to recycle those waste to life once again.&nbsp; With the patchwork design technique, matching different fabric scrap, different color and patterns, making her products even more appealing and exclusive. Eventually, Champa Champa quickly expanded the business and other product lines such as handbags, wallets, keychains, jewellery, and clothes.&nbsp;Aside from being sustainable products, Champa Champa is also a brand that indicates social responsibility as well. Many women in the communities, which also include people with health conditions or impairments, are offered job opportunities and sewing skills for them to make a living. They help in sewing and making the bag patterns which all the designs are crafted and directed by Mrs. Chhuon Champa.&nbsp;With an ambitious goal in driving this local brand even further, Champa Champa is one of the SME participating in i-Stories Cohort 2 project which is organized by Angkor Social Innovation Park (ASIP). Through the i-Stories project, Mrs. Chhuon Champa is aiming to innovate her product using Khmer Silk along with her embroidery and patchwork skills. She is looking forward to scaling up this business via the refinement and elegance of Khmer Silk both locally and internationally.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Written by: Theng Sokleap, Researcher at Angkor Social Innovation Park<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742113797/DSC_07449_4ce488ed56.jpg" alt="DSC07449.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742113795/DSC_07454_b601993092.jpg" alt="DSC07454.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1742113790/DSC_07505_b2d0699bb9.jpg" alt="DSC07505.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">

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From Fabric Scrap to Eco-Friendly Fashion 

In today's data-driven world,&nbsp; Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) face a critical challenge: how to stay competitive and make informed decisions in today's competitive business landscape. So, are you an SMEs owner feeling overwhelmed not knowing how your data can be utilized or generated? Don't worry you're not alone, many SMEs struggle to make sense with their data in terms of managing resources, inefficient processes, and the inability to anticipate market changes . But what if there's a way for today's SMEs to utilize their business data in order to thrive more competitiveness within their business operation?By leveraging data science, SMEs can unlock many hidden potentials, predict trends, and make informed decisions that drive growth and efficiency. From understanding customer behavior to optimizing operations, the possibilities are endless.<h1>What is Data Science?</h1>Data Science is an advanced analytic technique that combines statistics, computer science, and domain expertise to extract meaningful insights from structured and unstructured data.Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) can effectively utilize these techniques to extract insights from data , supporting business operations and decision-making.&nbsp;<h2>Importance in today's business landscape</h2>In Cambodia, many companies are adopting data science technology to gain more high ground against their competitors as it helps Cambodian businesses to come up with new ideas and anticipate in this fast-paced changing market.&nbsp;Gathering data is a vital step for businesses to integrate data science into their operations, unlock their full potential, and drive sustained growth.&nbsp;To effectively utilize data, a business owner should look into these key considerations:<ul><li>Identify your business goal: What are the main areas you're focusing on and collect only the data within that area such as customer behavior, sales trends, or inventory management?</li><li>Data Collection: Use existing software such as point-of-sales (POS) software or implementing surveys and feedback form from consumers.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Leverage data science tools: Utilize affordable and user-friendly tools such as Excel, Google Analytics, or Python.&nbsp;</li></ul>However, as long as an SMEs has their own data they can hire or partner with data science professionals or agencies to develop tailored solutions.Here's how it can be applied:<table><tbody><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Application Area</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Benefit</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Inventory Management</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Accurate demand prediction</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Customer Analytics</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Enhanced retention strategies</td></tr><tr><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Marketing Operations</td><td colspan="1" rowspan="1">Effective resource allocation</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>Common misconceptions in Cambodia SMEs</h3>However, many SMEs are still hesitant to adopt data science into their business operation due to the fact that:<ul><li>It's only for large corporations</li><li>It requires a big budget</li><li>It's too complex for small teams</li><li>It's only useful for tech companies</li></ul> In reality, data science can be scaled to fit in SMEs needs and budgets, providing actionable insights regardless of company size. With the right approach, SMEs can drive their business growth and efficiency within their operation using data. Practically, many small businesses (Local retailers) are integrating e-commerce and also data driven-insight in their businesses which not only helps expanding consumer reach but also help businesses optimize their inventory management. Thus, increasing their efficiency and cost-effectiveness.&nbsp;In conclusion, data science has emerged as a game-changing tool for SMEs, offering several benefits and opportunities to enhance business operations and drive growth. By leveraging these tools and techniques, SMEs can make informed decisions, optimize processes, and gain a competitive edge against their respective competitors. Written by: Chhort Chhoraset, Research Officer at ASIPReferences<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://lomatechnology.com/blog/data-science-cambodia-roles-salaries/4545">https://lomatechnology.com/blog/data-science-cambodia-roles-salaries/4545</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="" href="https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501318374/cambodian-smes-policies-for-supporting-their-digital-transformation/">https://www.khmertimeskh.com/501318374/cambodian-smes-policies-for-supporting-their-digital-transformation/</a></li></ul>

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How SMEs can leverage Data Science to support their business operation?

On February 7th, 2025, Angkor Social Innovaiton Park (ASIP) organized a Special Webinar on the topic of the "Youth and Innovation: Driving Cambodia’s Future Economy", moderated by Mr. Mey Puthi, Project Coordinator of ASIP. This webinar was joined by our esteemed guest speakers included Ms. Sokleap Theng, Senior Executive in Financial Planning &amp; Reporting and Independent Researcher; Mr. Makara Suy, Deputy Director of NUM International College; and Mr. Alywin Oh, Founder of Brighton Academy, by shared their insights, experiences, and expertise on how innovation and youth-driven initiatives can fuel Cambodia’s sustainable growth. In today’s rapidly evolving world, youth and innovation are at the forefront of Cambodia’s economic transformation. This webinar focused on the critical role of young people as changemakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs in shaping the nation’s future. Our. The session also explored several key themes, including how youth development programs can empower young innovators, the challenges they face in accessing mentorship and resources, and the role of universities and academic institutions in fostering entrepreneurship.&nbsp; To begin with, the speakers provided practical advice on bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world applications. Mr. Makara emphasized the importance of innovation platforms where youth can be incubated and trained to become entrepreneurs. He also highlighted that youth innovation is vital for social development. Regarding the connection between universities and industries, Mr. Makara noted that a strong link is crucial for supporting innovation and entrepreneurship. Without this connection, young people risk being left behind in shaping the market. Programs such as business model competitions offer practical insights into the business world, complementing theoretical knowledge and providing students with exposure to real market conditions. However, in order to scale up youth-led initiatives and equip young people with essential skills to thrive in an increasingly competitive economy. Mr. Alywin Oh also addressed the need to create safe spaces for youth. He stressed that programs should be designed to allow young people to experiment with their ideas without the pressure of immediate success. Additionally, he pointed out the importance of networking, stating that building a network at an early stage is essential for young entrepreneurs. Hence, Ms. Sokleap Theng underscored the challenges young innovators face in accessing resources, noting that financial barriers are a significant obstacle. She also mentioned that a lack of education and clear planning further hinders their ability to execute ideas effectively. She suggested that Cambodia needs clearer channels for idea-sharing platforms that enable young innovators to network, share resources, and collaborate. In conclusion, all three speakers agreed that while many young entrepreneurs possess great potential, they need structured support systems, access to resources, and strong mentorship networks to succeed

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Special Webinar: "Youth and Innovation: Driving Cambodia’s Future Economy"

The economic landscape is compelling and downturns are an unavoidable part of the business cycle. For small businesses, these periods can lead to important challenges to survival and development. Many small businesses have been forced to turn down their operations due to the unfavorable impacts of the financial downturn. The challenges these enterprises face often result in a negative return on investment, as expenses exceed income. On the other hand, by following strategies, small business owners can climate economic storms and emerge stronger. This article will explore effective techniques that small businesses can implement to reduce the impact of financial downturns and enhance their resilience.<h1>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Recognize the Danger and Look for Opportunities.</h1>During the downturn, consumer behavior shifted due to lower salaries and inflation, leading to decreased demand and a focus on cost-effective alternatives. Companies that adapted to these changes gained advantages by offering low-cost solutions addressing market needs (Smallbone et al., 2011). For instance, demand for expensive products declined as individuals prioritized saving or opting for cheaper alternatives with similar benefits. This highlights the importance of identifying accessible opportunities, preparing for adjustments, and adopting low-risk strategies to minimize failures in business operations.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1738404778/istockphoto_513879800_612x612_f609f45085.jpg" alt="istockphoto-513879800-612x612.jpg" width="612" height="408"><h2>2. Cost-cutting and Debt Management</h2>During a financial recession, business owners should start to recognize and analyze their expenditures. This is essential for cutting down on investing without compromising the core portion of the business. A few cost-cutting measures businesses can consider include reducing unnecessary costs, renegotiating with providers, utilizing energy-saving measures, contracting out non-core functions, and decreasing office space if remote working is feasible (Williams, n.d.).Managing debt becomes more basic during a downturn. Unless it is for the benefit of strategic development or survival, try avoiding taking on modern debts. If debt is out of control and poses a chance. (Williams, n.d.)&nbsp; It's advisable to counsel with banks for way better terms or expanded payment periods. The majority of your resources can go through your operations and development or maybe paying payments if you guarantee to keep the debt under management.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1738404778/istockphoto_1361910081_612x612_e43a402be2.jpg" alt="istockphoto-1361910081-612x612.jpg" width="612" height="408"><h3>3. Customer Focusing with Staff Strategies</h3>Maintaining great connections with your clients is a must during extreme financial times. Prioritizing your existing clients by offering them special value and excellent customer benefits is fundamental. Loyalty programs or promotions can reassure repeat trade. In expansion, try to oblige the shifting consumer behavior and guarantee you hold your customers by keeping in touch with the market demand. Employees are the most productive assets, so it is important to begin utilizing a staffing plan framework (Smallbone et al., 2011). To upgrade flexibility and cut down on the need for labor, it is way better to prepare your staff to work in multiple roles. If cuts are avoidable, be direct with the group to clarify the circumstance and to see for ways to support effective workers, such as offering them references or work situation help. Keeping resolve high among the remaining staff is fundamental for keeping up efficiency.Written By: Theang Kimthean, Researcher at Angkor Social Innovation Park

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Navigating Economic Storms: A Small Business Battle Plan

While synthetic hair extensions flooded the global market, locally discarded natural hair was being overlooked. Upon realizing this, Mrs. Khin Soda and her husband Mr. Sambath Chhay, set out on a mission to reclaim this precious resource and transform it into eco-friendly, high-quality extensions. Founded in 2015, Cambodian Hair Extension stands as a beacon of sustainability, innovation, and ethical beauty.They began as a small team of 5 passionate individuals and has now grown into a thriving company of 97 dedicated team members. The company’s vision is to become the global leader in providing all-natural, high-quality human hair extensions while upholding the highest standards of environmental and ethical responsibility.Each wig begins its journey with locally sourced hair from willing donors across Cambodia which create additional income opportunities for women, especially in rural areas by providing significant compensation for their hair. The collected hair undergoes rigorous quality checks before being cut, meticulously washed, and sorted by quality, pattern, and length. It is then hackled and sanitized using natural shampoos. <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1738206922/1_3eabebca74.png" alt="1.png" width="1536" height="2048"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1738206919/2_6d38206ced.png" alt="2.png" width="1536" height="2048"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1738206919/3_e8557b4cee.png" alt="3.png" width="1536" height="2048">The sanitized hair is expertly crafted into hair extensions, with its natural patterns and textures carefully maintained. Each stage of production undergoes strict quality control, culminating in a final wash and inspection to ensure every piece meets the highest standards of excellence. Cambodian Hair Extension dedication to natural beauty is reflected through their commitment to innovation which has driven them to join the i-Stories Cohort 2, where they innovate a new series of wigs made from banana fiber.Cambodia Hair Extension’s products are internationally recognized, as evidenced by their export to countries including Africa, the USA, the UK, and France. Through their official website and Facebook page, international and local customers can explore the full range of products, access detailed information, and place orders conveniently.Additionally, they offer physical stores where customers can experience the products in person, receive personalized suggestions, and make direct purchases.By choosing Cambodian Hair Extension, you are not just purchasing hair extensions, you are becoming part of a beautiful story of innovation, sustainability, and ethical empowerment. Your support would contribute to sustaining local communities, protect the environment, and celebrate natural beauty.Written by: Khoun Pichponleukanika, Research Director at Angkor Social Innovation Park

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Transformation of Discarded Hair Into Wig

Guns are often synonymous with war, crime, and violence, and the materials they leave behind, like spent bullet casings, are typically viewed as remnants of harm. However, Ms. Nim Sek saw an opportunity to redefine this narrative. Rather than seeing these objects solely as symbols of destruction, she envisioned their potential for beauty and creativity, leading her to establish Annie Jewelry in 2021.Each piece of their jewelry is crafted through a meticulous, fully handmade process that emphasizes creativity and craftsmanship. The journey begins with sourcing discarded bullet casings, which are carefully cleaned to remove dirt and residue to ensure a safe material for crafting.The casings are then cut, shaped, and engraved based on the design. Depending on the complexity, each piece takes one to two hours to complete, with prices ranging from $2.50 to $50. In addition to bullet casings, they incorporate materials like discarded beverage cans, copper, and silver to expand their range of sustainable designs and the business offers both pre-designed pieces and custom-made requests to cater to diverse customer preferences.Annie Jewelry also engages customers through interactive workshops, where participants can experience the jewelry-making process firsthand and create their own unique pieces.These workshops are available in two formats: a silver jewelry workshop priced at $60 per person for two and a half hours and a copper or aluminum workshop priced at $20 per person for one and a half hours.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1737876841/DSC_07177_d72593d0f2.jpg" alt="DSC07177.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1737876842/DSC_07149_159d43352b.jpg" alt="DSC07149.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">The brand’s products are available through both physical and online channels. The brand operates a shop in Siem Reap province and distributes their products to various souvenir shops in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. To broaden their reach, they also offer online purchases through Facebook and Instagram.Additionally, as part of the i-Stories Cohort 2 program, Ms. Nim Sek has introduced a new innovation by transforming plates, broken or not, into stunning jewelry. This new introduction further highlights the brand’s dedication to sustainability, as materials that might otherwise be discarded are given a second life.The intricate designs of the plates are preserved and integrated into each memorable piece, blending artistry with purpose and reinforcing Annie Jewelry’s mission to turn waste into beauty. By supporting their business, you are directly contributing to a sustainable future as each purchase helps reduce waste, and supports a brand that is dedicated to making a positive impact on both the environment and the community.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1737876990/DSC_07400_f2a1c9d575.jpg" alt="DSC07400.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1737876990/DSC_07376_9c35dc0543.jpg" alt="DSC07376.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1737876985/DSC_07361_bf387d280d.jpg" alt="DSC07361.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">Written by: Khoun Pichponleukanika, Research Director at Angkor Social Innovation Park

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Redefining Waste Into Wearable Art

On Sunday, 22nd December 2024, Angkor Social Innovation Park hosted its fifth Youth Workshop under the theme “Empowering Sustainable SMEs: Bridging Culture and Innovation.” The workshop brought together students from Singapore and Cambodia for a day of learning, cultural exchange, and hands-on experiences.&nbsp;The day started with a visit to Preah Dak Village, a small Cambodian village known for its traditional palm cakes. Participants had the opportunity to see how these cakes are made and crafted with beautiful creations from palm leaves, guided by local cake artisans. The experience not only provided insights into Cambodian traditions but also fostered teamwork and creativity among the students, showcasing how local knowledge and cultural heritage can be innovatively combined with natural resources to create sustainable SMEs, promote tourism, and support local communities. Everyone left with their handmade souvenirs and a better appreciation of the local culture. After the visit, the group enjoyed a delicious traditional Cambodian lunch featuring the famous Amok Fish, known for its creamy coconut flavors. During lunch, participants engaged in an extensive conversation regarding the similarities and differences between the lifestyles of Cambodia and Singapore. This fun cultural exchange brought everyone closer together and created memorable moments as they learned about each other’s cultures.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316109/DSC_08674_2250a73265.jpg" alt="DSC08674.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316109/DSC_08972_3e0c968ed4.jpg" alt="DSC08972.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316108/DSC_08770_db81df2df1.jpg" alt="DSC08770.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">In the afternoon session, the group headed to Angkor University, where they were welcomed by Mr. Chenda Kheng, the Director of the Public Relations and Cooperation Office. He shared an inspiring message about how youth can lead the way in creating sustainable businesses that honor culture and heritage from a Cambodian perspective. Participants then joined an engaging training session on “Integrating Culture and Nature into Modern SMEs.” Working in teams, they brainstormed ideas for businesses that could blend Cambodia’s rich cultural and natural heritage with modern innovation. The discussions were lively and creative, with students coming up with unique and practical ideas.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316291/DSC_09731_0e894e5d34.jpg" alt="DSC09731.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316292/DSC_09247_c9c59c8e89.jpg" alt="DSC09247.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316398/DSC_09193_3e5c7b8350.jpg" alt="DSC09193.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">The day concluded with a visit to PinakPou Restaurant, where the group was welcomed by&nbsp; Mr. Mengly Mork. He shared his story of building a successful restaurant that focuses on premium Khmer cuisine despite facing many challenges along the way. His motivational talk left a lasting impression on the students, encouraging them to pursue their own dreams with determination. The evening wrapped up with a delicious meal of authentic high-end Khmer cuisine.<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316525/DSC_09792_87db8d053a.jpg" alt="DSC09792.jpg" width="7008" height="4672"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dgpjxwfoc/image/upload/v1735316524/DSC_09812_6cf812394e.jpg" alt="DSC09812.jpg" width="7008" height="4672">

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Empowering Sustainable SMEs: Bridging Cambodians and Singaporeans Culture and Innovation

November 19th, 2024, Tokyo, Japan — Ms. Puykea Sok, General Manager of Angkor Social Innovation Park (ASIP), engaged in lively conversations on opportunities for innovation, economic resilience, and regional cooperation during the second day of the Asia Think Tank Network (ATTN) Policy Forum.&nbsp;The day began with a public program titled "Towards a Shared Future: Japan and Southeast Asia in Partnership," highlighting the critical relationship between Japan and Southeast Asia in fostering mutual growth and prosperity. This was later followed by a session on "Enhancing Democratic Unity: Regional Cooperation for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific," emphasizing how crucial it is to work together to preserve peace and advance democratic ideals in the area.&nbsp;The morning continued with a focus on "Strengthening Southeast Asia's Resilience through Regional Integration and Economic Cooperation," where Ms. Sok shared her knowledge of Cambodia's experience using regional alliances to promote equitable development. Her sharing demonstrated the value of international cooperation in tackling common issues and releasing collective potential.&nbsp;The afternoon sessions tackled some of the most pressing issues of the day, starting with a discussion on "Building Resilience Against Kleptocracy," where participants looked at ways to improve governance, accountability, and openness throughout the region.&nbsp;The final discussion of the day, "Driving Innovation: The Road to Building Fair Market Economies," highlighted the necessity of encouraging fair growth and entrepreneurship. Ms. Sok discussed ASIP's efforts to use social innovation as a creative approach to empower local communities and advance sustainable development in Cambodia.&nbsp;The Asia Think Tank Network Policy Forum's second and last day ended with heartfelt closing remarks reflecting the fruitful discussions and shared goals for a more robust and cohesive Asia. Ms. Sok attended a meal with other attendees and organizers to honor the forum's dedication to fostering collaboration and a better future for the region. "The discussions today emphasized how crucial cooperation, resiliency, and creativity are to determining Southeast Asia's future. I am motivated by the mutual dedication to advancement and am eager to put these concepts into practice for the good of Cambodia and the region. On behalf of ASIP, I would like to sincerely thank CIPE for inviting us and continuing to promote regional corporations." Ms Sok stated.&nbsp;Angkor Social Innovation Park is committed to using creative and cooperative methods to promote sustainable development in Southeast Asia and aid in regional integration as the Asia Think Tank Network Policy Forum ends.

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Ms. Puykea Sok Joined Engaging Discussions on Regional Cooperation and Economic Resilience at Day Two of the Asia Think Tank Network Policy Forum