AKP Phnom Penh, April 30, 2026 --

Siem Reap province has stepped up its smart city ambitions, drawing on Japanese expertise during a knowledge-sharing workshop held in Okazaki on April 29, 2026.

Organised by the Siem Reap Provincial Administration in collaboration with JICA experts, the second workshop brought together government officials, private sector representatives, business leaders and students to exchange practical experiences in urban innovation and planning.

The session was co-chaired by Deputy Governor Mr. Yun Linne and Mr. Miyake Shigehiko, Chief Advisor to the Siem Reap Smart City Project. Discussions centred on adapting Japan’s smart city model to Cambodia’s fast-growing tourism hub.

Mr. Miyake Shigehiko highlighted striking similarities between Okazaki and Siem Reap, noting that both cities are shaped by rivers and rich cultural heritage. He stressed that such parallels provide a useful foundation for designing urban strategies that balance modernisation with preservation.

“A smart city must go beyond technology,” he said, emphasising long-term solutions to urban challenges through collaboration between government, businesses, academic institutions and citizens.

With Siem Reap experiencing rapid growth, key priorities include tackling traffic congestion, improving public safety and enhancing tourism data management. Digital innovation, participants agreed, will be central to improving living standards while strengthening environmental resilience.

Mr. Yun Linne reaffirmed the province’s commitment to smart city development, describing it as a necessary response to rising economic and demographic pressures. 

He expressed confidence that the workshop would deepen understanding of practical models, strengthen public-private partnerships and create new opportunities for young people and digital enterprises.

Tourism expert Thuon Sinan, President of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), expressed support for the smart city initiative, noting that Siem Reap has strong potential. 

He suggested that alongside existing attractions such as Pub Street and ancient temples, the city should continue developing new tourism products to support its growth. 

The workshop’s outcomes are expected to inform Siem Reap’s long-term vision of becoming a more liveable, attractive and sustainable smart city.

By Sum Kosal