Historical Milestone: Cambodia Officially Launches 5G Services at Midnight Tonight

12 / 31 / 2025 · 352 words

As we prepare to ring in the New Year, the Kingdom of Cambodia is opening a new chapter in its digital history. According to the official notification from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPTC), the 5th Generation mobile service, or 5G, will officially begin operations across the country starting at midnight tonight.

1. Launch Timeline

Following the Royal Government's announcement on December 5, 2025, the official countdown concludes tonight. Users can begin experiencing 5G speeds starting from:

  • 00:01 AM, January 1, 2026

2. Operators and Initial Coverage Areas

The MPTC has collaborated with the three major mobile operators—Cellcard (CamGSM), Metfone (Viettel Cambodia), and Smart (Smart Axiata)—to accelerate the construction of telecommunications towers and the installation of 5G equipment.

In this initial phase, 5G service will be available in Phnom Penh and key areas across 14 provinces:

  • Priority Hubs: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
  • Provincial Rollout: Kandal, Svay Rieng, Kampong Speu, Takeo, Kampong Cham, Kampong Thom, Prey Veng, Kratie, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, Preah Sihanouk, Stung Treng, and Kampot.

The Ministry has confirmed that 5G coverage will expand step-by-step to cover all remaining provinces nationwide.

3. Benefits Beyond "Fast Internet"

5G is more than just a speed upgrade; it is the "Digital Infrastructure" for Cambodia's future, offering:

  • High Speed: Significantly faster than 4G.
  • Ultra-Low Latency: Near-instant response times, crucial for emergency services, smart traffic systems, and remote medical care.
  • Massive Connectivity: The ability to connect millions of "Smart" devices (IoT) simultaneously within a small area.

4. How to Get Ready

To access the 5G network tomorrow, users need:

  1. A 5G-Ready Device: A smartphone that supports 5G technology.
  2. Location: To be within one of the initial coverage zones listed above.
  3. Carrier Update: Ensure your phone is updated to the latest carrier settings provided by your network operator.

This launch is a major step in the Pentagonal Strategy - Phase 1, aiming to drive Cambodia's digital economy and society forward into 2035.

Are you ready to experience the 5G leap at the stroke of midnight? Let us know which province you'll be testing from!

Reported from Battambang, December 31, 2025

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