PROHIBITIVE operating costs drove digital media and graphics firm Emerging Entertainment from Singapore to set up shop in the Kingdom on Tuesday, Director Cornel Hillman wrote in an email. “Singapore is a great place if you are in banking or financial services. Cambodia is more artist-friendly,” he said, and added that the lower operating costs and a “liberal economy” in Phnom Penh were attractive to the company. Emerging Entertainment produces 3-D graphics and animation for international clients mainly in Germany, Singapore and the United States, though it will explore opportunities in the local market.The firm employs contractors in China and partners in the United States. It intends to eventually hire and train Cambodian workers.