2026 (22nd) APABI Biennial Program Successfully Concludes in Phnom Penh

Dear APABI Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 2026 (22nd) APABI Biennial Program, held from 18–20 August in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and hosted by the Institute of Banking and Finance Cambodia (IBF Cambodia).

Bringing together banking and finance education leaders and representatives from 18 APABI member countries, both in person and virtually, the three-day program provided a valuable platform for regional exchange, shared learning, and stronger connections. We were also honored to welcome the Asian Banking School (ABS) as APABI’s newest Associate Member, further expanding and strengthening our regional community.

This year’s gathering carried special significance as we celebrated APABI’s 40th anniversary alongside IBF Cambodia’s 10th anniversary—two milestones that reflect the enduring value of partnership, knowledge exchange, and a shared commitment to developing the region’s banking and financial talent.

Building on this spirit of collaboration, the program opened with the 2026 APABI Executive Meeting (2nd APABI Board Meeting), where members shared institutional developments and exchanged views on APABI’s future priorities. Discussions focused on deepening collaboration through knowledge sharing, joint research, certification, talent development, and professional exchange, with a shared ambition to create greater value for members across the region.

From regional dialogue to practical insights, delegates joined the Cambodia Banking Conference 2026, hosted by the Association of Banks in Cambodia (ABC), gaining perspectives on the ASEAN banking outlook, SME development, and banking resilience. The program continued with a visit to the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC), where delegates explored Cambodia’s evolving digital payment ecosystem, including Bakong and KHQR.

Beyond the formal agenda, the program also created opportunities to experience Cambodia and connect as a community. Delegates enjoyed a memorable cyclo ride through the streets of Phnom Penh, followed by visits to the Royal Palace and SOSORO Museum, gaining a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s cultural heritage, monetary history, and economic development. The program concluded with a warm and joyful farewell dinner, celebrating the friendships and shared experiences built throughout the gathering.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to APABI Chairman Visal Sou and the entire IBF Cambodia team for their outstanding hospitality, thoughtful arrangements, and dedicated efforts in making the program a success. We also sincerely thank all APABI members and delegates for your active participation and valuable contributions.

As APABI marks four decades of collaboration, the Phnom Penh gathering reaffirmed the enduring strength of our network and the value of coming together across borders. Our shared knowledge connects us, our relationships strengthen us, and our collaboration enables us to create greater impact for the future of banking and finance talent across the region.

Looking ahead, let us carry the spirit of Phnom Penh forward—turning connections into collaboration, ideas into action, and shared ambition into lasting impact for the APABI community.

Warm regards,
APABI Secretariat at TABF