Cambodia wins ASEAN digital award for social protection platform

PHNOM PENH/HANOI, Jan 19, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s Digital Social Protection Platform has won the Gold Award at the ASEAN Digital Awards 2026, officials said Monday, marking a regional recognition of the country’s push in digital governance.

The award was presented during the ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi last week, where Cambodia’s platform was named the most outstanding public sector digital solution among entries from all 11 member states.

Developed by the General Secretariat of the National Social Protection Council, the system enables digital registration and delivery of social assistance and social security benefits. Officials said it stood out for its citizen-focused design and responsiveness to national needs, advancing to the final round alongside Vietnam and Singapore before clinching the top prize.

Prime Minister Hun Manet and Deputy Prime Minister Aun Pornmoniroth, who chairs the council, have described the platform as a core element of Cambodia’s digital public infrastructure.

ASEAN ministers praised its technological quality and impact, saying the award highlighted Cambodia’s growing reputation in digital government.

The recognition underscores Phnom Penh’s commitment to improving transparency and accessibility in public services through technology, despite regional competition in digital innovation.