OREX SAI Brings 4G Open RAN to Cambodia
OREX SAI has announced a first 4G Open RAN trial for the Kingdom of Cambodia. Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications selected the joint venture, formed by Japanese operator NTT DOCOMO and vendor NEC, to deliver the project.
Aligned with a recent MoU between the two governments to enhance cooperation in digital services and infrastructure, the demonstration will feature a 4G Open RAN network deployed at a large commercial facility. As well as providing voice and data services, the network will be used to test enterprise and industrial AI solutions provided by OREX SAI’s sister company, NTT Data.
One of the applications highlighted by the announcement will involve AI deployed to analyse CCTV footage from cameras connected to the network. The solution will count and monitor individuals within the facility and analyse their behaviour.
This, the third such announcement to date from OREX SAI, follows agreements signed with StarHub in Singapore and Indonesia’s Authority of the New Capital City (OIKN). Taken together, these initiatives are the outcome of recent commitments made by key US allies in Asia to promote Open RAN in the region. In this instance, the 4G Open RAN demo will be promoting the merits of the technology to a market that has yet to deploy 5G services.
And while the traditional benefits of Open RAN, like supply chain resilience and enhanced cybersecurity, are all highlighted in OREX SAI’s announcement, the sub plot is clear: Open RAN is being sold as an alternative to Chinese manufactured telecoms infrastructure.
In that respect the US backed technology faces an uphill battle in Cambodia, which has developed increasingly close ties with China in recent years. The two countries are already collaborating on multiple initiatives aimed at bolstering Cambodia’s economic growth through the deployment of digital technologies and infrastructure. Cambodia is also one of the few countries in the region to formally recognise China’s claim over Taiwan, underscoring its alignment with Chinese interests.
