Phnom Penh: The ASEAN Business and Social Responsibility Awards 2024 took place in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on the evening of 11 November 2024, celebrating the achievements of 75 entrepreneurs from 19 countries.

During the awards ceremony, Mr. Heang Vuththa, President of the Global Entrepreneur 1% Club, emphasized the significance of the awards in reflecting collective social responsibility. He noted that these awards not only enhance business operations but also improve the lives of individuals within communities. “Today’s gathering also reflects the important steps we are taking as part of promoting sustainable development, improving lives, and contributing to the well-being of the entire ASEAN society,” he stated.

Mr. Vuththa outlined the awards program, highlighting that it was organized over 80 days with a total of 3,760 applicants from 39 countries. The committee shortlisted 480 potential candidates, leading to an official evaluation of 280 from 30 countries. Ultimately, a total of 75 winners from 19 countries were honored during the ceremony.

Dr. Kong Vithera, founder of KPF and vice president of the Global Entrepreneur 1% Club (Social Affairs), remarked that the event underscored the association’s vision of prioritizing social responsibility alongside profitability. He articulated that social responsibility involves building a sustainable future and urged other business leaders and entrepreneurs to actively engage in community support for national development.

The investor club expressed hopes for increased participation from entrepreneurs in social initiatives and aims to expand the awards program further with the backing of companies and business owners in future editions.

The award ceremony attracted a range of attendees, including representatives from key ministries and institutions, such as the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation, and the Ministry of Commerce, along with notable figures from the Singapore Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia and the Cambodia-Singapore Investment Association.

The ASEAN Awards for Socially Responsible Businesses are divided into five categories: the ASEAN Awards for Community and Socially Responsible Businesses (10 awards), the ASEAN Awards for Artists and Socially Responsible Businesses (3 awards), the ASEAN Awards for Socially Responsible Businesses (12 awards), and the ASEAN Awards for Entrepreneurs and Socially Responsible Businesses (34 awards), along with additional categories recognizing excellence in social responsibility.