My name is Masuda Chikahiro, and I serve as the Chief Advisor at CJCC. This is my second assignment in Cambodia, with my first being about 20 years ago when I was involved in launching the CJCC project at the JICA Cambodia Office. The scope of CJCC’s activities today has expanded immensely compared to the early days. Reflecting on these past 20 years, I deeply respect the efforts and dedication of those who have nurtured CJCC to its current prominence. I am grateful to be able to work in such an environment again.

CJCC operates under three main pillars. In our Business Program, we primarily offer business training and help build business partnerships for private companies and startups in Cambodia. Through our Japanese Language Program, we provide quality Japanese language education to those interested in Japan, its culture, and prospective students aiming to study in Japan, as well as professionals aiming to work in Japanese companies. In our Cultural & Educational Exchange Program, we organize events that promote cultural and educational exchanges between Cambodia and Japan. Through these efforts, we aim to be a platform connecting Cambodia and Japan and their peoples.

CJCC started its operations in 2004 and celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024. Over these two decades, we have fostered a learning community with many companies and startups sharing our goal of contributing to Cambodia’s socio-economic development. Throughout this process, we have established a deep network including lecturers, mentors, advisors, investors, and CJCC alumni. This extensive network, unique to our institution, represents one of our greatest assets and advantages.

It is said that Japan is home to over 1,200 companies that have been in business for more than 200 years, comprising 65% of such long-standing companies globally. The primary reason for their longevity is believed to be their focus on the development of local communities, prioritizing societal benefits over corporate profits. Then, these companies have become indispensable to their communities, sustaining their operations over the long term. In a world where the future is unpredictable and challenging—often referred to as the VUCA era—embracing the enduring philosophies and management skills of Japanese business can be incredibly beneficial to Cambodia’s socio-economic landscape.

Having spent over 25 years in international cooperation with JICA, working primarily with government officials on capacity building, my role at CJCC marks a new and exciting challenge. I am here to support the visionary entrepreneurs, startups, business professionals, and students who are keen to contribute to the socio-economic development of Cambodia.

I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to work in Cambodia once again and am committed to contributing to its development.