KUALA LUMPUR: Maybank Cambodia has extended a US$50mil financing facility to Smart Axiata, a subsidiary of Axiata Group Bhd
, to accelerate the strategic development of Cambodia’s digital and telecommunications infrastructure, including 5G connectivity across the country.
In a statement, the bank said the financing reflects a shared commitment between Maybank and Smart Axiata to strengthen Cambodia’s digital foundation, supporting broader socio-economic development.
Infrastructure enhancements will expand access to digital education and remote learning, financial and payment services, and enable businesses, including SMEs, to adopt ICT solutions, boost productivity, and reach wider markets.
Maybank Cambodia chief executive officer and country head Rath Sophoan said the financing supports community development and the digital economy, in line with Cambodia’s Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021–2035, as well as Maybank’s ROAR30 sustainability and new economy priorities.
“We view the new economy as a core pillar of Cambodia’s national agenda, in addition to being a key driver of Asean’s growth to accelerate the shift toward high-impact, high-value sectors.
“This collaboration with Smart Axiata represents our first new economy-aligned financing in Cambodia, underscoring Maybank group’s ROAR30 strategic plan to mobilise RM100bil in new economy initiatives and RM300bil in sustainable finance by 2030,” he said.
Smart Axiata CEO Ritesh Kumar Singh said the financing from Maybank Cambodia will accelerate investments in 5G and digital infrastructure, expanding access to enable more Cambodians to learn, work, and grow.
“Aligned with national priorities, we aim to bring the new internet to every Cambodian, unlocking opportunities for people, businesses, and the broader economy to thrive in an increasingly digital era through future-ready infrastructure, while helping to bridge the digital divide.”
Meanwhile, Maybank group chief executive officer of global banking, Datuk John Chong, said: “Sustained investments in enhancing local connectivity will, in turn, attract investments into Cambodia, create jobs and contribute towards meaningful regional integration.”
“This partnership with Smart, a subsidiary of Axiata Group Berhad, reinforces Maybank’s broader Asean aspirations of connecting the dots, navigating cross-border opportunities for clients, while delivering social impact,” he added.
