New markets, partnerships, or investment opportunities were being explored with enthusiasm as members of the Malaysian Business Chamber in Cambodia (MBCC) and the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Cambodge (CCIFC) engaged in a CEO Networking Dinner at Phnom Penh’s Hotel Le Royal.
The first-ever event of its kind was an initiative by the presidents of both business associations, as they are excited to extend their business partnership and collaboration amid the rise of Cambodia as an emerging economy in Southeast Asia.
The networking dinner on Wednesday saw CEOs and representatives from 11 corporate members of MBCC, namely Baker Tilly (Cambodia) Co., Ltd., Canadia Bank Plc., Cambodian Public Bank Plc., Khmer Times, Campu Lonpac Insurance Plc., CIMB Bank Plc., Project Management Consultancy Co., Ltd., Smart Axiata Co., Ltd., Knight Frank (Cambodia) Pte Ltd., CIMB Bank Plc. and RHB Bank (Cambodia) Plc.
Meanwhile, representing CCIFC were leaders from 10 French companies in Cambodia, specifically Vinci Airports, LBL, Total Energies, Geolink, WeCare, Bureau Veritas, Confluences, Safety Net, Solution Bi, and 8S Agro.
In his opening remark, Cyril Girot, CEO of Vinci Airport and President of the CCIFC, emphasised that strengthening relationships between business chambers is a priority for CCIFC.
“We are particularly focused on fostering stronger ties between France and Malaysia—especially in Cambodia, where we see great business opportunities,” he said. “I can confidently say that there are some very successful partnerships already in place.”
“Tonight’s gathering presents an excellent opportunity for all of us to get to know each other better, engage in meaningful discussions, and explore new ways of collaborating and growing our businesses together,” Girot added.
Meanwhile, Oknha Tan Khee Meng (KM Tan), the Managing Partner of Baker Tilly Cambodia and MBCC President, stated that the idea for the CEO Networking Dinner was born when he and Girot met at a recent networking event and soon agreed to organise a more intimate, compact, and conducive gathering for deeper conversations between our two business chambers.
“As Malaysians, we enjoy building connections,” he said. “Malaysian businesses have had a long-standing presence in Cambodia, sharing a similar investment history with French businesses.”
“That shared legacy is something we value, and tonight marks the beginning of a conversation that we hope will continue to grow. While this is a formal CEO dinner, we also want to keep the atmosphere relaxed, allowing for meaningful discussions and valuable connections.”
“I won’t take up too much time because this evening is really about all of you—connecting with those seated beside, in front of, or across from you. That’s the power of conversation,” he added.
The Malaysian Business Chamber in Cambodia (MBCC) has navigated a journey of resilience and growth since its inception in 1993, evolving from a small community to a pivotal force in fostering economic cooperation between Malaysia and Cambodia. The Chamber serves as a platform for networking, business development, and collaboration among its members.
The Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie France Cambodge (CCIFC), or the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Cambodia, is a business organisation that represents French businesses in Cambodia. It serves as a platform for networking, providing services to companies looking to invest or expand in Cambodia, and fostering economic ties between France and Cambodia. The CCIFC supports both French companies operating in Cambodia and Cambodian companies looking to connect with France through trade, investment, and partnerships.