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Celebrating 30 Years of Cambodian Tourism Assoccation
Celebrating 30 Years of Cambodian Tourism:
A Night of Royal Honors, Connections, and Community
The story of Cambodia’s tourism sector is one of resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to showcasing the Kingdom of Wonder to the world. On June 10, 2026, this incredible journey reached a monumental milestone. The Cambodia Tourism Association (CATA)—originally established in 1996 as the Cambodia Association of Travel Agents—celebrated its 30th Anniversary.
The grand event, hosted at the spectacular Shangri-La Phnom Penh, was far more than a corporate milestone. it was a vibrant celebration of three decades of private-sector dedication. For André Ruys and Lily Lim, the visionary founders behind Cambodian Travel Partner and Cambodiajeep, the evening held a deeply personal and historic significance. Having been dedicated members of CATA since 2004, their twenty-two years of continuous contribution to sustainable, community-based tourism culminated in an unforgettable moment of national recognition.
A Day of Synergy: Networking the Future of Travel
The celebration was thoughtfully split into two distinct parts, perfectly balancing the strategic future of travel with the evening’s prestigious celebrations.
During the day, the atmosphere buzzed with energy during a high-level B2B networking meeting. Hundreds of travel agencies, destination management companies (DMCs), hospitality stakeholders, and hoteliers gathered to discuss the changing landscape of international travel. With CATA’s current membership standing proud at 345 businesses, the daytime event served as a powerhouse of collaboration.
30 years anniversary CATA Network event
Industry leaders discussed advanced digital adoption, the rise of experiential travel, and the growth of eco-conscious tourism—areas where Cambodia is rapidly becoming a regional leader. It was a space where old partnerships were strengthened and new cross-border connections were forged, setting a dynamic trajectory for the next decade of Cambodian tourism.
The Gala Dinner: A Gathering of Tourism Pioneers
As the sun set over the Mekong River, the energy shifted from corporate strategy to elegant celebration. The evening gala dinner was a dazzling, star-studded affair that brought together the past, present, and future of the industry.
The room was filled with a sense of shared history, emphasized by the attendance of current and former leaders who have shaped the nation’s tourism policies. Among the distinguished guests was the current Minister of Tourism, Mr. Huot Hak, alongside highly respected former ministers, including Mr. Lay Prohas, who guided the industry during pivotal years of growth in the early-2000s. Under the leadership of CATA’s dynamic President, Oknha Chhay Sivlin, the gala beautifully honored the early pioneers of 1996, who used their own resources to build a tourism framework out of nothing, while spotlighting the modern innovators driving the industry forward today.
Royal Honors: André and Lily Knighted by the Deputy Prime Minister
The true highlight of this landmark evening came during the official award ceremony, when the Royal Government of Cambodia bestowed official state decorations upon a select group of exceptional travel agencies and tourism stakeholders for their outstanding services to the Kingdom.
In a deeply moving and prestigious moment, Deputy Prime Minister Hun Many personally took the stage to present the medals. Among the select group of honorees called forward were André Ruys and Lily Lim.
In the rich tradition of the Cambodian honors system, these decorations carry profound cultural meaning. André was awarded a medal adorned with a solid green ribbon, symbolizing his appointment to the rank of Knight (Chevalier). In Cambodia, the color green represents growth, prosperity, and the sustainable development of the nation’s landscape—a perfect reflection of André’s passion for vintage jeep expeditions and off-the-beaten-path adventure travel.
Lily was invested with a red and green ribbon, representing a distinct, elevated rank within the order, honoring her exceptional leadership, operational excellence, and deep-rooted commitment to community-based initiatives and the Lily Foundation.
For a sector built on human connection, having these trailblazers officially knighted by the Deputy Prime Minister was a well-deserved, emotional crowning achievement for their 22 years of membership and hard work.
Reflecting on a 30-Year Legacy and Looking Ahead
CATA’s 30th-anniversary gala was not just a look back at how far the industry has come since the fragile days of 1996; it was a celebration of identity, unity, and shared success. From a small group of brave operators to a powerhouse association representing hundreds of travel experts, CATA has successfully given the private sector a unified, respected voice.
For companies like Cambodian Travel Partner, the event reinforced why they choose to do business the way they do. By focusing on high-quality service, local empowerment, and unique cultural experiences, they aren’t just selling holiday packages—they are actively building the reputation of the country they love.
As the evening concluded with music, laughter, and high-spirited toasts, one thing became abundantly clear: Cambodia’s tourism industry is in exceptionally capable hands. With passionate leaders, dedicated members, and a government that proudly honors its private-sector champions, the next 30 years of Cambodian travel promise to be even more bright, sustainable, and captivating.
Congratulations to CATA on 30 years of excellence, and to Lily and André on their well-deserved royal honors! Here is to many more miles of adventure through the Kingdom of Wonder.
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