Smart Axiata Co Ltd has installed 68 new base stations in Siem Reap province as part of its $90 million investment plan to expand and improve its network across the country in 2021, the telecoms operator said in an April 27 press release.

The newly completed sites are among the 350 new locations announced by Smart last month, which will enhance its LTE network for users nationwide and help to ensure the network is fully ready to meet growing customer demands during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Smart currently operates more than 3,000 base station sites across the country and provides 4G coverage to 91.5 per cent of the population. The firm says it is also progressing to gradually shut down its 3G network in 2021, reallocating the residual 3G frequency spectrum for its 4G network.

“Investments into Cambodia's telecoms infrastructure have never been more important,” its CEO Thomas Hundt said. “We understand the urgency and will continue to provide unparalleled connections to Cambodians, especially in these critical times".

“Our customers in Siem Reap will now enjoy significant network improvements thanks to the newly built sites across the province,” he said.