He started with bold ambition in the early ’90s, and now commands an empire spanning over 40 companies. Kith Meng, Chairman and CEO of The Royal Group, is not just one of Cambodia’s wealthiest figures—he’s the country’s most influential business architect.
From pioneering telecommunications with Cellcard, to modernizing Cambodia’s media, banking, and energy sectors, Meng’s reach is unmatched. But what really sets him apart is his strategic playbook, one that blends local insight with global partnerships to scale Cambodian enterprise to new heights.
From Refugee to Business Titan
Born on September 1, 1968, Kith Meng’s early life was shaped by adversity, including displacement during the Khmer Rouge regime. But by the 1990s, after time in Australia, he returned to Cambodia with a clear vision—to build a conglomerate that would define the country’s future.
In 1991, he founded The Royal Group, which has since grown into Cambodia’s most powerful investment holding company. Today, the group is a juggernaut spanning:
- Telecommunications (CamGSM/Cellcard)
- Media (CTN, CNC, MyTV)
- Banking (J Trust Royal Bank)
- Energy (Lower Sesan II hydropower project)
- Real Estate (Royal Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone)
Transforming Cambodia’s Core Industries
Telecom First-Mover Advantage
In 1996, Meng co-founded CamGSM, operating under the Cellcard brand. This wasn’t just a telco launch—it was a pivotal leap in modernizing the nation’s connectivity. Today, Cellcard remains a top mobile provider and is credited with laying the foundation for Cambodia’s digital transformation.
Banking Modernization
His 45% stake in J Trust Royal Bank positioned him as a key player in reforming Cambodia’s financial landscape, offering better access to modern banking tools for businesses and individuals alike.
Media Domination
Kith Meng wasn’t content with just telco and banking. Through Cambodian Broadcasting Corporation, he launched CTN, CNC, and MyTV, bringing a new era of entertainment and journalism to Cambodia.
Economic Powerhouse: $1.88 Billion in Exports
In 2024, The Royal Group’s Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone reported a record $1.88 billion in exports. This milestone highlights not just business success, but a transformational role in Cambodia’s economy and global trade participation.
His leadership has made The Royal Group a vital engine for employment, infrastructure development, and foreign investment attraction.
Global Partnerships & National Honors
Kith Meng’s savvy extends to diplomacy and global alignment. His partnerships include ventures with:
- Millicom International Cellular
- ANZ Bank
- Philippine Airlines
This cross-border collaboration has attracted international investment while elevating Cambodian enterprise standards.
He also serves as President of the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce and Chairman of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (Cambodia). Recognized by the Cambodian government, he holds the title of “Neak Oknha,” an honor bestowed for national contributions.
The Next Chapter: A Pan-ASEAN Vision?
With new infrastructure projects underway and a stronghold in Southeast Asia’s business networks, speculation is growing around Kith Meng’s next move. Will he expand The Royal Group’s footprint into regional super-apps, fintech, or further renewable energy?
One thing is clear: Cambodia’s next economic leap may already be mapped in Kith Meng’s private strategy room.
