PHNOM PENH, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Science, technology and innovation (STI) have served as catalysts for national advancement, Cambodian Permanent Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet Minister Vongsey Vissoth said here on Thursday.
"Science, technology, and innovation are not a standalone sector, but a strategic enabler that supports all sectors," he said at the opening ceremony of the fourth National Day of STI in Phnom Penh.
"Public and private institutions, including micro, small, and medium enterprises, all have the opportunity to harness the strong potential of STI to drive growth and develop their organizations," Vissoth added.
He called for strengthening national capabilities in critical technologies, especially digital infrastructure, energy, food systems, health, and defense.
"In a context where the global order is under threat, technological sovereignty is national sovereignty," he said.
He underscored the need to increase investment in research and development (R&D), noting that many advanced economies allocate around 2-3 percent of GDP to R&D, while outlining key priorities, including aligning research with national needs, accelerating implementation of the Cambodia STI Roadmap 2030, and advancing people-centered innovation.
The three-day event featured science exhibitions, STI forums, innovation activities, and national science awards aimed at enhancing STI capacity to support socio-economic development.
Nhim Khemara, permanent secretary of state of the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, said advanced technologies -- including modern machinery, smart manufacturing, automation systems, and digital solutions -- are being showcased to demonstrate real-world adoption and the upgrading of Cambodia's production capabilities in response to Industry 4.0 and evolving global market demands.
"Investment in science, technology, and innovation is key to building national capacity and enhancing Cambodia's competitiveness in the region and globally," he said.
Khemara added that the government has been promoting the adoption of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to enhance productivity and public service delivery, with a focus on ethical, inclusive, and responsible use.
He said the STI National Day is an annual event that supports Cambodia's transition toward a more diversified, innovation-driven economy as it prepares for least developed country graduation and advances toward its 2050 vision of becoming a high-income country. ■
