On 1–2 October 2025, I had the privilege to represent Cambodia at the Conference on Digital Transformation and Regulatory Technology (RegTech) for Improving Public-sector Productivity, organized by the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) and hosted by the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) in Manila.
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| A group photo during the conference on Digital Transformation and Regulatory Technology (RegTech). Photo credit: APO |
The two-day event brought together 91 participants from 16 APO member countries, including six delegates from Cambodia, to explore how digital transformation (DX) and Regulatory Technology (RegTech) can strengthen governance and boost productivity in the public sector.
I was deeply honored to be one of three international representatives (alongside Bangladesh and the Philippines) invited to deliver the Vote of Thanks during the closing ceremony — a meaningful way to conclude such an insightful gathering.
Key Takeaways and Learnings
1. Digital Transformation Goes Beyond Technology
Digital transformation in government isn’t just about adopting new tools. It’s about restructuring systems, enhancing skills, and fostering innovation within institutions. Presentations highlighted how successful DX initiatives require leadership, collaboration, and a citizen-centered mindset — not just IT investments.
One powerful example came from Japan’s Digital Agency initiative, which showcased how clear strategy and institutional readiness can lead to measurable improvements in productivity and service delivery.
2. RegTech for Smarter, Faster, and Safer Regulation
RegTech is transforming how governments regulate industries by leveraging automation, data analytics, and real-time monitoring. The discussions revealed how regulatory frameworks can evolve to match the pace of technological change.
Case studies from the Philippines’ Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and other APO members demonstrated how regulatory sandboxes allow safe experimentation with financial innovations, balancing progress with public trust.
3. AI Sandboxes and Responsible Innovation
A particularly engaging topic was AI governance and regulatory sandboxes — controlled environments that allow regulators and innovators to test AI and emerging tech solutions before wide-scale deployment.
These “safe testing zones” encourage innovation while ensuring that AI applications comply with ethical, legal, and societal standards. The concept illustrated how adaptive regulation can make governments more future-ready and responsive.
4. Open Data and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
Day two highlighted how open data practices and digital public infrastructure can generate public value. When governments treat data as a shared asset, it enhances transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.
Examples included digital ID systems, interoperable payment platforms, and open data ecosystems, all of which contribute to smarter regulation and better service delivery.
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5. Collaboration Across Borders
Perhaps the greatest value of the APO conference was the exchange of ideas among 16 diverse economies. From policy frameworks to case studies, each shared approach added a regional perspective to how digital transformation and RegTech can scale effectively.
As a participant from Cambodia, I gained valuable insights into how we can leverage digital governance, data-driven decision-making, and regulatory innovation to strengthen our community and national public-sector productivity initiatives.
Reflections from the Vote of Thanks
Delivering the Vote of Thanks at the closing ceremony was both humbling and memorable. I expressed appreciation to the APO, DAP Philippines, all speakers, and fellow participants for their dedication in making this event impactful and collaborative.
The discussions throughout the conference reinforced a clear message:
Technology and regulation must evolve together to create more productive, transparent, and citizen-centered public institutions.
Gratitude and Acknowledgment
A heartfelt thank you to the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) and the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) for organizing this conference, and to all delegates for sharing their experiences, ideas, and solutions.
Special appreciation to The National Productivity Centre of Cambodia (NPCC), under the General Department of Industry, Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MISTI), for their kind facilitation and support of the Cambodian delegation’s participation.
This experience strengthened my belief that digital transformation and regulatory innovation are not just technical trends — they are essential pathways to building smarter, more accountable governments.
Maraming salamat. Thank you. 🙏 🇰🇭🇵🇭
💬 What are your thoughts on how digital transformation and RegTech can improve public services in Cambodia — or in your country? Share your insights in the comments below!