VIDEO: Cambodia Moves Toward Ethical AI Future with Launch of National Strategy Draft and Ethics Readiness Report

Minister of Post and Telecommunications Chea Vandeth presided over the opening ceremony of the National Workshop on the draft “National Artificial Intelligence Strategy” and the official launch of the “Country Report on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment in Cambodia” at the Sokha Hotel in Phnom Penh.

The recent workshop, brought together approximately 400 participants from across ministries, the private sector, academia, civil society, and the AI professional community. The event aimed to disseminate findings from Cambodia’s AI ethics readiness assessment while also serving as a platform for dialogue and validation of inputs on the draft national AI strategy.

According to the organisers, the discussions were designed to refine and finalise the strategy with the input of all relevant stakeholders. The ultimate goal is to ensure effective implementation once the strategy is officially adopted.

In his address, Minister Chea Vandeth acknowledged the growing importance of artificial intelligence in Cambodia’s digital transformation and emphasised the need for an inclusive and ethical approach to harnessing its potential.

The workshop continued into its second day with a series of group discussions centred around three thematic areas: AI for Economic Development, AI for Social Development, and AI for Digital Government. Participants exchanged ideas and insights through presentations and panel sessions, reflecting the country’s collaborative approach to AI governance.

The event concluded with a strong sense of inclusivity and cooperation among stakeholders, including representatives from government ministries, international experts, development partners, academic and research institutions, civil society organisations, and students in AI-related fields.

MPTC Secretary of State Keo Sothie reaffirmed the government’s commitment to finalising and launching the National Strategy on Artificial Intelligence, which he said would aim to drive sustainable economic growth, promote social development, and support the digital transformation of government services. He also stressed the importance of mitigating unethical uses of AI that could negatively impact citizens’ well-being and national security.

The national strategy and the country report mark a significant milestone in Cambodia’s journey toward responsible AI development, positioning the Kingdom as a forward-thinking actor in the regional digital landscape.