Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia’s largest mobile network operator, Cellcard, has been awarded the title of “Cambodia’s Fastest Mobile Network” in the 2023 Ookla Speedtest Award Report, Cellcard achieved a Speed Score of 31.23, with median download speeds of 25.90 Mbps and median upload speeds of 7.80 Mbps.
The four main telecoms tested for the Cambodian market were Smart (28.53), Metfone (15.89), and Yes Seatel (5.29) in comparison Singapore’s 5G Mobile Network Singtel achieved a score of 327.47.
The award was presented at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the world’s biggest connectivity exhibition, on February 28th, 2023. The Chairman of the Royal Group of Companies, Neak Oknha Kith Meng, and Cellcard’s CEO, Simon Perkins, received the award on behalf of the company.
Modernized its network software and infrastructure
This marks Cellcard’s fourth win in the Ookla Speedtest Award, having won the award in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The latest win is a testament to the company’s efforts in enhancing network performance. In collaboration with Nokia, Cellcard undertook an overhaul of its network technologies, systems, and prepaid platforms, which service over 99% of its customer base.
Nokia’s solutions have enabled Cellcard to modernize its network software and infrastructure, delivering upgraded functionality and quality to its customers. In 2022, the company underwent several upgrades, including a full software upgrade, activation of Voice over LTE (VoLTE), and full Carrier Aggregation activation in 16 provinces. The company also deployed IBS and Microcells solutions to fill coverage gaps in Phnom Penh’s residential areas and “Boreys”.
Additional network infrastructure in 2022 includes new sites across 10 provinces, including Phnom Penh, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, Battambang, Preah Vihear, Siem Reap, Kandal, Koh Kong, Sihanoukville, and Svay Rieng.
Positioning the company for Cambodia’s digital future
Cellcard’s CEO, Simon Perkins, stated that the company’s focus on enhancing its network is aimed at improving the customer experience, ensuring business continuity, and positioning the company for Cambodia’s digital future. Perkins said, “Investing in our network is akin to investing in our future, ensuring that the business continues to grow in its capability together with our customers’ needs, and foreshadowing the demands of Cambodia’s digital future.”
Ajay Sharma, Head of Thailand and Cambodia at Nokia, expressed his delight at helping Cellcard modernize its networks and maintain its technology leadership in the country. He also noted that Nokia’s solutions empower service providers like Cellcard to provide a best-in-class experience to their subscribers.
