September 5, 2025
PHNOM PENH – Indonesia has expressed strong interest in expanding cooperation with Kratie province, with a focus on trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges.
During a September 1 meeting with Kratie deputy governor Heng Sotha, Indonesian ambassador to Cambodia Santo Darmosumarto highlighted the historic friendship between the two nations as a “solid foundation” for future partnerships.
The talks were part of the ambassador’s working visit to Kratie and neighbouring Mondulkiri.
Santo emphasised Cambodia’s growing familiarity with Indonesian products, noting that bilateral trade had already exceeded $1 billion in 2023 and 2024.
With recent shortages in consumer goods, Indonesia is prepared to supply more products to the Cambodian market.
“The entry of more Indonesian goods will offer Kratie residents greater choice and contribute to more balanced trade between our countries,” he said.
The ambassador also invited local business leaders to attend Trade Expo Indonesia 2025, scheduled for October 15–19, as a platform to build new business connections.
The discussions also touched on cultural and educational exchanges.
Santo pointed to Kratie’s sizeable Muslim community as a potential bridge for stronger social and cultural ties.
He encouraged local students to take advantage of Indonesian government scholarships for higher education, which he said could also open doors for deeper economic cooperation.
The ambassador expressed gratitude for provincial authorities’ assistance in protecting Indonesian nationals affected by online scam cases in Cambodia.
“Deputy Governor Sotha welcomed Indonesia’s outreach and voiced optimism about potential investment in Kratie’s agro-industry, agriculture and tourism sectors,” according to the Indonesian embassy.
Sotha also proposed exploring a “sister province” arrangement to formalise long-term cooperation.
Santo responded positively, pledging to help coordinate with Indonesian ministries to move the idea forward.
In addition to his official meetings, the ambassador toured one of Cambodia’s largest granite mines, a site that exports stone.
The visit underscored Indonesia’s growing interest in connecting not just with Phnom Penh, but also with Cambodia’s provinces as partners in trade, development and cultural exchange.
Santo also praised Kampot province’s transformation into a popular tourist destination, on an August 6 visit.
“I am convinced that Kampot will become a preferred destination for those looking for the natural beauty and rich cultural traditions of Cambodia,” he said.
The ambassador highlighted opportunities for trade and investment, especially in Kampot’s famed pepper and durian, and expressed hope for stronger economic ties.
Kampot governor Mao Thonin welcomed Indonesian investors, saying, “We are open to cooperation and partnerships with Indonesia”.
“We hope that Indonesians living in Kampot will contribute positively to the local community,” said Santo.