Following the recent receipt of the Gold Model at the ASEAN Digital Awards 2026 at the regional level, the Digital Convergence Initiative (DCI)—a global initiative for digital transformation and a joint effort among governments, development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector—has conferred the Global Recognition Award upon the Royal Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia for its excellence in digital transformation in social protection. In particular, the award recognizes Cambodia’s excellence in interoperability and the harmonization of social protection registration and data management systems, which are regarded as international best practices.

This global recognition has made Cambodia the first country to receive this award among more than 30 DCI member countries that have been advancing the development of more comprehensive and inclusive digital public infrastructure, in order to strengthen governance and public service delivery.

This achievement reflects:

- Visionary and pragmatic leadership;

- Collaboration among all stakeholders following the “Dynamics of Stakeholder System”;

- Commitment towards inclusive and coherent digital transformation; and

- Cambodia’s contribution to regional and global digital transformation efforts.

From the honor and recognition at the regional level to this global recognition, Cambodia has continued its journey toward building a resilient, transparent, and citizen-centered social protection system.