‘Khmer Can Do’: Cambodian creativity showcased on Koh Pich

Last weekend, the Koh Pich exhibition centre was alive with innovation and entrepreneurship at the ‘Khmer Can Do’ event, an ambitious showcase for the dynamism of Cambodian youth and the wealth of their know-how.

For two days, young designers, start-ups, craftspeople and associations showcased their projects in a vast space designed around the theme of local ingenuity. The exhibition proved to be a meeting place for entrepreneurs, investors and the general public, giving everyone a chance to discover the creativity of a new generation looking resolutely to the future.

A breath of local innovation

Among the stands that stood out were those of young technology companies offering solutions ranging from artificial intelligence applied to agriculture to innovative e-commerce platforms. Visitors were also able to talk to young engineers and designers who all shared the same ambition: to build a development model where modernity and Khmer identity go hand in hand.

But ‘Khmer Can Do’ was not limited to the technology sector. Handicrafts and fashion also took centre stage. Clothing inspired by traditional fabrics, jewellery designed from local materials and decorative objects made from bamboo illustrated the effervescence of a creative scene that draws on Khmer heritage to dialogue with contemporary trends.

A message of optimism

Organisers and participants alike stressed the importance of this kind of event, which shows that Cambodia has no shortage of talent, but needs to offer them a framework for visibility, support and emulation. Several round tables were held, tackling key issues such as the financing of start-ups, the role of women entrepreneurs and the impact of digital technology on the local economy.

"We want to show that with perseverance and creativity, anything is possible. Cambodia has talented young people who can compete on a regional and international level", said one of the show's coordinators at the closing ceremony.

Towards a permanent event?

The popular success of this first edition suggests that “Khmer Can Do” could become a regular fixture on the Cambodian entrepreneurial scene. With enthusiastic audiences, enthusiastic participants and a keen interest from the business community, the event served as a reminder that resilience and creativity are still at the heart of Cambodia's contemporary identity.

At Koh Pich last weekend, young Khmer people confirmed that they can not only dream, but above all do.

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