Smart Axiata, Cambodia’s top telecom provider, has teamed up with the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications (MPTC) to organize the important "Online Safety Forum 2024" at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. This event highlights the significance of online safety as Cambodia works towards developing digital societies and creating a safer online environment for all its citizens.
The Online Safety Forum 2024, themed “Together for a Safer Internet”, will bring together key stakeholders from various sectors, including government bodies, digital technology companies, non-governmental organizations, experts, content creators, and students. The forum will address current online risks, explore potential solutions, foster collaboration, and promote the implementation of key government policies on online protection.
Sharif Lukman Mahfoedz, Chief Business Officer (CBO) of Smart Axiata, emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling internet safety. “We are honored to support MPTC in organizing this event. Forums like these give the opportunity for stakeholders to come together and learn about potential solutions to tackle online risks”, he said. The Smart CBO further underlined the importance of creating a safe online space, envisioning a future where everyone can thrive in a digitally connected world.
The event emphasized the importance of safeguarding children, who represent Cambodia's future, by fostering a secure online environment for their growth and development. In a significant move to protect Cambodian youth, Smart Axiata signed a memorandum of understanding with Action Pour Les Enfants Cambodia (APLE) during the forum, with H.E. Chun Vat, Secretary of State of the MPTC, in attendance. APLE is a Cambodian NGO focused on shielding children from sexual exploitation and abuse through comprehensive interventions. This partnership aims to prevent abuse, support affected children, avoid further exploitation, and enhance online safety for all.
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring a safer digital environment for all Cambodians. "Creating a secure online space demands collaboration from all stakeholders, especially in enacting supportive policies. The private sector, notably digital technology companies, must adopt measures to protect their products and services, while users need to grasp the importance of online safety and learn how to safeguard themselves," stated His Excellency Chun Vat, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications.
“As we sign this Memorandum of Understanding with Smart Axiata, we embrace the power of public-private partnerships to protect children online. Our combined strengths and resources will help us create safer digital spaces and prioritize the safety of children in all initiatives”, said Seila Samleang, Executive Director of APLE Cambodia.