In a region where energy security and climate change are pressing concerns, young Cambodian innovators are demonstrating that youth can be at the heart of the solution.
Cambodian students Toch Ensophea and Chhit Helen from the ACLEDA University of Business were awarded the 5th ASEAN Energy Youth Award in the Innovation Lab Track – Policy category at the Sustainability and Renewable Energy Forum (SAREF 4.0), held in Kuching, Malaysia, on September 3-4.
A senior computer science student at ACLEDA University of Business and Lead Data Scientist at ECI Distribution, Ensophea has just been awarded the ASEAN Energy Youth Award for developing an AI-powered solution to optimise cross-border hydropower trading among ASEAN nations.
The award was presented by Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Dato' Sri Haji Fadhillah bin Haji Yusof, with Cambodian Senior Minister Othsman Hassan also in attendance, alongside ASEAN leaders and delegates.
This year’s competition drew nearly 700 youth from 384 teams across all 10 ASEAN member states. It recognised innovation and leadership in advancing sustainability and renewable energy.
“Standing on that stage, I felt immense pride not only for myself but for Cambodia,” said Ensophea.
He explained that his inspiration came from witnessing Cambodia’s growing need for sustainable energy alongside the transformative potential of technology.
1315.533 SRY