(29 January 2024)

Sunwah – On 29 January 2024, the Grand Opening ceremony of Sunwah Innovation Center Phnom Penh and Jonathan KS Choi Cultural Center in cooperation with the National University of Management Cambodia was organized at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh.

The grand opening of the center was presided over by H.E. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation (MISTI). Guests of honour at the grandiose ceremony included H.E. Kim Sethany, Secretary of State and High Representative of Minister of Education, Youth and Sports H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, and H.E. Lundi Sannara, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. H.E. Prak Phannara, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Tourism, and Tran Thi Anh-Dao, Attache for Scientific and Higher Education Cooperation at the French Embassy, were also among the guests of honour, with nearly 200 people joining the glittering event both online and offline.

In his opening remarks, Minister Vanndy emphasized the pivotal role of science, technology, and innovation in propelling economic growth and societal progress. He lauded Sunwah Group’s steadfast commitment to advancing Cambodia’s technological sector.

“Innovation drives job creation, increases competitiveness and productivity, addresses societal challenges, and enhances the quality of life and global collaboration, making it a key factor in shaping prosperous and resilient societies,” he said.

H.E. Kim Sothany, Permanent Secretary of State of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, said that the center’s role as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange, research, and innovation will contribute to redefining the educational landscape and empower students for future success.

During the event, Dr. Jonathan Choi, Chairman of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Bay Area Entrepreneurs Alliance and Chairman of Sunwah Group, delivered the welcome remarks. Mr. Jesse Choi, General Director of Sunwah Group in ASEAN, CEO of Sunwah Innovations, shared about the mission and vision of the Sunwah Innovation Center in Cambodia.

On this occasion, Dr. Jonathan Choi was awarded the second highest level of the Royal Order of Sahametrei-Moha-Sereyvath from King Norodom Sihamoni in recognition of his contributions to the economic, cultural and educational development of Cambodia over the past 30 years.

The prestigious award was presented by Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation H.E. Hem Vanndy, while 10 members of Sunwah Group and National University of Management also received Royal Order of Sahametrei Medals. Ms. Janice Choi, Adviser and Legal Director of Sunwah Group, and Mr. Gilbert Tsui were awarded the Mohasena Medal, while Mr. Jackson Choi, East China Regional Director of Sunwah Group, and Mr. Jesse Choi received the Thipdin Medal.

In 2009, Dr. Jonathan Choi was awarded the “Building the Nation of Cambodia” Medal by the government of Cambodia, in recognition of his contributions to the Kingdom’s infrastructure and his commitment to improving people’s livelihoods.