Smart Axiata, one of Cambodia’s leading integrated ICT solutions and telecommunications providers, has announced a significant milestone in its commitment to advancing digital connectivity across Cambodia. In 2024, the company successfully commissioned an additional 475 Base Transceiver Stations, pushing the total to over 4,000 sites throughout the country. This notable expansion marks a major step in enhancing the quality and reach of mobile connectivity for millions of Cambodians.
In conjunction with this achievement, Smart Axiata has expanded 2,500 sectors at existing base stations and updated equipment at around 800 sites to meet the rising demand for mobile services. This comprehensive effort has resulted in improved quality of services and introduced new coverage in more than 200 locations, reflecting Smart Axiata’s ongoing drive to provide reliable and advanced network infrastructure nationwide.
Smart Axiata’s significant investments in network expansion, amounting to over 50 million USD annually, demonstrate its dedication to enhancing coverage and quality of services nationwide. This milestone not only reflects Smart Axiata’s strategy for continuous improvement but also aligns with Cambodia’s Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021-2035.
Enhancing Connectivity and Digital Access
By strategically expanding its network throughout various regions and local communities, Smart Axiata is unlocking greater digital access for citizens. This initiative paves the way for improved livelihoods, facilitating easier access to information, digital finance, education, and entertainment for millions.
“As we transition into a more digital world, access to a reliable internet connection has never been more crucial. Today, virtually all activities, including banking, entertainment, and education, rely on digital connectivity. This shift is evident in the continuous rise in mobile data consumption,” stated Ziad Shatara, CEO of Smart Axiata. He expressed enthusiasm for enhancing quality of services and fostering a vibrant digital ecosystem that benefits citizens, governments, and businesses alike.
Driving Digital Inclusion, Cybersecurity, and Sustainability
As Smart Axiata continues its network expansion, it is dedicated to collaborating with key partners such as the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, and various non-profit organizations. These collaborations aim to bridge the digital divide in Cambodia, improving digital literacy and equipping citizens with essential skills for the digital age.
While enhancing connectivity, Smart Axiata is also committed to creating a safer online environment. The company actively promotes safety practices and reporting mechanisms for Child Sexual Abuse Materials, empowering parents and guardians.
Additionally, Smart Axiata has partnered with SecurityGen, a telecom cybersecurity leader, to implement advanced security measures like a Next Generation Signaling Firewall and Intrusion Detection System, ensuring the protection of customer data and network infrastructure.
Demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, approximately 40% of Smart Axiata’s 4G base stations are powered by solar energy, aligning with Cambodia’s climate goals for net zero emissions by 2050.
As Cambodia is experiencing rapid growth, digitalization has and will continue to play a key role in the nation’s development. Smart Axiata, keeping pace with the nation’s progress, is driving the development of a digital society that serves individuals, families, and businesses across the country, with the company gaining international recognition, including coverage in the Los Angeles Times in December 2024.
In recent years, the company has actively worked on enhancing coverage and expanding services along the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway, as well as in economic zones, the iconic Angkor Wat complex and numerous remote villages and boreys.
