Phnom Penh, Cambodia – 01 September 2025– Smart Axiata today announced the appointment of Ritesh Kumar Singh as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the company’s leadership and reaffirming its long-term commitment to Cambodia’s digital and socio-economic development.
With nearly three decades of leadership experience across Asia’s telecommunications industry, spanning VEON (Bangladesh), Bharti Airtel (India), Telenor (Asia and India), and most recently as Chief Commercial Officer of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (Indonesia), Ritesh brings proven expertise in scaling innovation, expanding access, and building customer-centric ecosystems in some of the region’s most dynamic markets.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Ritesh succeeds Mr. Ziad Shatara, who led Smart Axiata since January 2023 and leaves behind a legacy of strong commercial performance, innovation leadership, and a deepened role for Smart in Cambodia’s digital economy. Ziad now assumes the position of CEO at Robi Axiata in Bangladesh, continuing his journey within Axiata Group.
“Ziad’s leadership has set a remarkable foundation, both in strengthening Smart’s market position and in reinforcing our role as a trusted national telecom and ICT solution partner in Cambodia’s digital journey. I am honored to continue this vision, and to lead Smart Axiata into its next phase of innovation and impact,” said Ritesh Kumar Singh, CEO of Smart Axiata.
A Vision Aligned with Cambodia’s National Digital Priorities
As Cambodia advances towards a digital-first economy, Smart Axiata under the leadership of Ritesh Kumar Singh will align closely with the Royal Government’s vision to build an inclusive, secure, and innovative digital society. His strategic priorities include:
- Expanding Connectivity and Digital Literacy
Advancing nationwide broadband, fiber-optic expansion, and next-generation technology readiness, while supporting digital literacy to equip citizens with future-ready skills. - Elevating Digital Services and Customer Experience
Delivering innovative platforms and ICT solutions that empower citizens, enterprises, and government in line with the Digital Government Policy 2022–2035, while enhancing customer experience through advanced digital platforms and high-value services tailored to their needs. - Investing in Sustainable Infrastructure
Building resilient, energy-efficient networks that drive long-term growth and support Cambodia’s climate commitments. - Fostering Innovation and Partnerships
Collaborating with government, startups, academia, and industry to accelerate entrepreneurship, digital inclusion, and socio-economic opportunities. - Enabling the Digital Economy & Society Policy 2021–2035
Positioning Smart Axiata as a trusted partner in strengthening Cambodia’s competitiveness and digital resilience within ASEAN.
“Smart Axiata is more than just a telecom operator; we are a partner in Cambodia’s nation-building journey. From expanding digital innovation and education, to investing in sustainable infrastructure, to empowering youth and entrepreneurs, we are committed to creating real impact. Together with our dedicated team, partners, and communities, I am confident Smart will continue to make a lasting impact for the people and the economy of Cambodia,” said Ritesh Kumar Singh, CEO of Smart Axiata.
Strategic Confidence for the Future
Smart Axiata’s appointment of Ritesh underscores the company’s confidence in sustaining momentum in a rapidly evolving digital landscape in Cambodia. Backed by Axiata Group Berhad, an Asian Connectivity Leader headquartered in Malaysia, Smart continues to blend global standards with local talent and innovation to deliver trusted services for more than 8 million subscribers nationwide.
About Smart
Smart Axiata, subsidiary of Axiata Group Malaysia, delivers telecommunication and integrated ICT solutions across Cambodia, boasting over 8 million subscribers. By transforming into a comprehensive mobile and digital technology brand, the company is revolutionizing the country’s digital landscape, redefining lifestyle entertainment and professional productivity through a range of innovative offerings.
As a subsidiary of Axiata Group Berhad, one of Southeast Asia’s leading telecommunications groups, Smart is a key Malaysian enterprise partially owned by a sovereign wealth fund of the Government of Malaysia. Smart benefits from both regional expertise and global standards. This strong backing reinforces Smart’s commitment to delivering world-class services while contributing to Cambodia’s digital and economic transformation.