Cambodia Investment Review
Financial literacy and practical understanding of banking were placed firmly in focus at Right Angle, an engaging luncheon and discussion held on January 17 at the Shangri-La Hotel Phnom Penh. The event brought together contest winners and invited guests connected to Right Angle: The Collection Volume One, creating a setting for open dialogue around finance, responsibility, and informed decision-making.
Hosted in an intimate format, the luncheon allowed participants to interact directly with Raymond Sia, whose book draws on decades of banking experience across Southeast Asia to explain financial concepts in clear, accessible terms. Rather than a formal presentation, the session encouraged discussion around the book’s themes and how they relate to everyday financial choices faced by individuals and businesses in Cambodia.
A book built for clarity, not complexity
During the discussion, Raymond shared that Right Angle: The Collection Volume One was written with “head, heart and hands,” using simple, easy-to-understand language. The book’s primary objective is to improve financial literacy at a time when access to financial products and services is expanding rapidly across the country.
A central idea highlighted at the luncheon was that financial literacy should precede financial access. As Cambodia’s banking and financial sectors grow more sophisticated, understanding the nature of products, services, and obligations is increasingly important before consumers accept financial offers. The book reflects this philosophy by avoiding technical jargon and grounding explanations in real-world scenarios.
The publication brings together more than 30 articles previously published under the long-running Right Angle column, complemented by additional essays on leadership and personal development. Its structure reflects lived experience rather than theory, aiming to make banking, currencies, and economic trends more approachable for students, professionals, and general readers alike.
Real-world finance and everyday impact
Conversations at the luncheon explored how banking decisions translate into real outcomes for households and businesses, as well as how interest rates, currencies, and global economic forces affect daily life in Cambodia. Participants discussed the importance of informed financial behaviour as the economy becomes more interconnected with regional and global markets.
The emphasis throughout the discussion was on relevance and practicality—how financial concepts move beyond balance sheets and policy statements to influence borrowing decisions, savings habits, and long-term stability. This approach resonated with attendees, many of whom highlighted the value of accessible financial knowledge in building confidence and resilience.
Industry perspectives and community engagement
Harrison White, Founder of Cambodia Investment Review and CIR Media, said the luncheon reflected growing interest in practical financial education within Cambodia’s business community. “What Right Angle does particularly well is translate complex financial topics into something people can relate to in their own lives,” White said. “This luncheon showed there is a real appetite for conversations that go beyond headlines and help people understand how finance actually works.”
White added that the event aligned closely with CIR Media’s broader mission. “Bringing people together in this kind of setting encourages thoughtful discussion and learning. It reinforces why financial literacy matters—not just for professionals, but for anyone navigating today’s economic environment,” he said.
The luncheon followed the official launch of Right Angle: The Collection Volume One in December at the CamEd Business School, which attracted senior banking executives, academics, and members of the diplomatic and business communities. Proceeds from the book are directed toward charitable activities, underscoring its social purpose.
Where to get the book:
For further information or to obtain a copy of Right Angle: The Collection Volume One, readers can contact Raymond Sia directly or reach out to Khmer Times General Manager Ms Raquel through Khmer Times.
