KADIN Marks Cambodia’s 26 Years in ASEAN, Calls for Deeper Regional Economic Cooperation
- nicholastan788
- May 12
- 3 min read
The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN) has issued a formal statement commemorating Cambodia’s 26th anniversary of accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), calling for deeper economic integration and practical cooperation among member states.
The message, delivered by Dalton Wong, Chairman of the KADIN Bilateral Committee for Cambodia and President of the Indonesia Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, praised Cambodia’s transformation from a post-conflict nation to a respected regional player. The remarks were part of a broader endorsement of Cambodia’s growing leadership in ASEAN and its expanding role in regional diplomacy and trade.
“Let ASEAN not only be a political and cultural community, but an economic engine driven by mutual trust and real opportunity,” Wong said, highlighting Cambodia’s emerging contribution to ASEAN cohesion.
Cambodia’s Growing Voice in ASEAN
The statement also referenced comments made by former Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen during the anniversary celebrations. Hun Sen recalled Cambodia’s difficult road to regional integration, noting that its entry into ASEAN in 1999 was once met with hesitation but is now marked by recognition and respect.
“Cambodia is not only accepted—it is respected,” Hun Sen said in his address, underscoring the nation’s diplomatic evolution and institutional rebuilding over the past two decades.
Dalton echoed this sentiment, crediting Cambodia’s leadership for fostering inclusive growth within the ASEAN bloc. He emphasized that ASEAN’s collective strength lies not in uniformity, but in embracing diverse experiences and contributions from all members.
A Vision for the Next Phase of ASEAN Growth
Looking forward, KADIN’s statement laid out a vision of ASEAN that prioritizes digital transformation, sustainable infrastructure, responsible investment, and cross-border entrepreneurship.
“Cambodia and Indonesia, both vibrant and youthful economies, are natural partners in building a new phase of ASEAN growth,” Dalton said, noting the need to move from “dialogue to action.”
KADIN’s bilateral committee has been actively working to enhance private sector collaboration between Indonesia and Cambodia, particularly in areas such as technology, logistics, green energy, and SMEs. Wong’s statement emphasized the importance of business-led initiatives that complement regional political frameworks.
Strengthening Regional Ties Through Business
KADIN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Cambodia’s economic development, particularly through partnerships that unlock new opportunities in both countries.
“We are proud to support Cambodia’s private sector and government initiatives,” Dalton stated. “And we remain committed to advancing bilateral and regional partnerships that uplift communities, protect shared resources, and unlock ASEAN’s full potential.”
The remarks come at a time when ASEAN is recalibrating its priorities amid global economic uncertainties, digital disruption, and climate challenges. As member states seek to boost intra-regional trade and investment, Cambodia’s position as a bridge between ASEAN’s mainland and maritime components continues to grow in strategic importance.
Dalton concluded by framing Cambodia’s 26th year in ASEAN not as an endpoint, but as a launching pad for deeper cooperation.
“As we reflect on the past 26 years, may we now look forward to the next chapter—one defined not by borders or blocs, but by bridges,” he said.
About KADIN in Cambodia
The KADIN Bilateral Committee for the Kingdom of Cambodia serves as the official representative body of Indonesia’s Chamber of Commerce in the country. Its mission is to foster closer commercial, investment, and trade ties between the two nations, while also contributing to broader ASEAN integration through business partnerships and policy dialogue.
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