These forums presented an invaluable opportunity to showcase Bay of Lights as more than just a symbol of Cambodia’s potential; it is a game-changing initiative that will redefine the region. With a vision to become a leading destination for international travelers and investors, Bay of Lights is poised to catalyze Cambodia’s urban transformation while fostering deeper economic ties between Cambodia, Australia, and the broader ASEAN community, unlocking new avenues for growth and collaboration.
“The foundation of Australia and ASEAN’s enduring partnership is mutual respect and shared aspirations, which has resulted in significant bilateral trade growth across multiple sectors,” remarked Michael Truong, Head of Business Development at Canopy Sands Development. “With Cambodia acting as a gateway connecting both regions, Bay of Lights is envisioned not merely as a city transformation but as a community that will propel and sustain this economic growth and collaborative spirit in our region.”
Spanning 934 hectares, the Bay of Lights project has already forged key international partnerships, attracting attention with its notable collaborations. One such partnership is with Australia’s Greg Norman Golf Course Design, introducing Cambodia’s first USGA-standard 18+1-hole waterfront golf course. Leading global hospitality brands, including The Ascott Limited, IHG, and Radisson, have also joined forces, committed to reshaping the region’s tourism landscape and delivering significant cultural and economic advantages to both Cambodia and the ASEAN bloc.
Strategically positioned at the crossroads of the ASEAN-Australia economic corridor, the project is well-placed to capitalize on the vibrant regional trade dynamics. Australia’s trade with ASEAN countries reached a remarkable USD 183.4 billion in 2023, outpacing trade with economic powerhouses like Japan and the United States. Bolstered by trade agreements such as the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Bay of Lights is poised to emerge as a preeminent financial and investment epicenter, attracting global investors seeking access to Southeast Asia’s thriving markets.
With its ambitious vision, strong partnerships, and strategic location, Bay of Lights is destined to become a flagship destination for cultural tourism and international investment, not only in Southeast Asia but beyond.
Bay of Lights: A Visionary Development
Bay of Lights is an innovative project that is reshaping the skyline of Sihanoukville, Cambodia. With a massive investment of USD 16 billion, this expansive 934-hectare beachfront development has been meticulously designed to encompass nine unique districts, each supporting the initiative’s six core pillars: Financial Services, Tourism, Education, Entertainment & Lifestyle, Health & Wellness, and Art & Culture. Driven by a bold vision to create a world-class financial and tourism hub, the Bay of Lights design fosters a sense of connectivity between diverse sectors, stimulating economic growth and creating a vibrant, dynamic environment.
Culture week introduces Vietnam’s land and people to Myanmar
NDO – Vietnam Culture Week in Myanmar took place from September 27 to 30 in Yangon city, Myanmar, aiming to promote the image of the country and people of Vietnam, and promote cultural and tourism cooperation and enhance people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
RoK promotes culture and tourism in Ho Chi Minh City
NDO – The Korean Tourism and Culture Festival was held on Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, Ho Chi Minh City,from September 28-29.
ASEAN-Japan Music Festival 2019 to be held
NDO – The ASEAN-Japan Music Festival 2019 will take place at the National Convention Centre, My Dinh, Hanoi, on July 28, with the participation of Vietnamese singers Noo Phuoc Thinh, Dong Nhi and Trong Hieu, as well as many international artistes.
ASEAN seeks to boost intra-bloc trade
Enhancing intra-ASEAN trade and investment towards a cohesive and responsive ASEAN is one of the shared topics by many regional officials, researchers and policymakers.
Vietnam, Cambodia hold joint rescue drill
Hundreds of soldiers from the Royal Cambodian Army and the Vietnam People’s Army on December 18 took part in a joint rescue drill in Chantrea district in the Cambodian province of Svay Rieng.
