Phnom Penh, 2 September 2024 – Mrs. CHAM Nimul, Minister of Commerce, presided over the opening ceremony of the “One ASEAN Startup Award Pre-Event” at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh on Monday afternoon. The event brought together participants from various line ministries and key stakeholders, reflecting a collective effort to promote innovation and entrepreneurship within the ASEAN region.

In her opening address, Mrs. CHAM Nimul commended the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) for its ongoing dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation across the ASEAN member states. She highlighted ERIA's significant role in driving regional growth and enhancing global economic integration through its initiatives.

The Minister underscored the vital role of startups in advancing socio-economic development, noting their capacity to generate employment and contribute to GDP growth through the successful implementation of innovative ideas, technologies, and business models. She stressed that the evolution of startups into established businesses has a profound impact on economic progress.

Mrs. CHAM Nimul encouraged participants to leverage the opportunities presented by the program, urging them to engage actively, network, exchange ideas, and broaden their innovative efforts both within ASEAN and on the global stage.

In her concluding remarks, Mrs. CHAM Nimul outlined several strategic recommendations:

1. Support for the Initiative: She called for continued backing of the One ASEAN Startup Award Pre-Event organized by ERIA, recognizing its importance in fostering regional entrepreneurship.

2. Encouraging Participation of Cambodian Entrepreneurs and Youth: The Minister urged increased participation from Cambodian entrepreneurs and youth, encouraging them to present their business ideas, innovations, and technologies.

3. Capacity Building for Successful Participants: She advised successful candidates to focus on enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and to actively share their experiences with other aspiring entrepreneurs and youth.

4. Expanding Regional and Global Networking: Mrs. CHAM Nimul emphasized the importance of building networks with entrepreneurs across ASEAN and beyond, to share experiences, address common challenges, and explore partnership opportunities.

5. Adapting to Digital Transformation: The Minister encouraged Cambodian youth and entrepreneurs to embrace digital technology and e-commerce, urging them to adapt to the ongoing digital transformation to scale their businesses.

6. Fostering Future Entrepreneurs: Finally, she called on Cambodian youth to aspire to become successful entrepreneurs, highlighting their potential to significantly contribute to national economic growth.

The “One ASEAN Startup Award Pre-Event” is seen as a crucial platform for enhancing regional collaboration and supporting the growth of innovative startups. Mrs. CHAM Nimul's address reaffirmed Cambodia’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship, driving economic growth, and positioning the country as a proactive player in the ASEAN economic community.