Media technology firm SuperNet launched a test phase in Cambodia last month, with the aim of bringing OTT (over-the-top) services, such as television and video on demand over the internet to the Kingdom’s consumers. The Post’s Hor Kimsay sat down with Fox Lui, chief financial officer at Supernet to discuss the company’s prospects.

What can you tell us about OTT TV?

Supernet’s OTT digital TV is the first OTT operator in Cambodia. It is technology that is based on the internet, with 103 digital and HD programs, rich content, quality image and voice, and smart applications. It allows users to have two way communications. It changes the way of watching TV to using TV and playing with TV. You basically can choose what you want to watch. It will open the door for developing internet digital TV in Cambodia.

Digital TV focuses mainly on people who have less affordable income so we want to provide them the service so that they can have some entertainment and also practical information.

What are the origins of SuperNet?

Supernet, with a registered capital of $100 million, was established and founded by the China-Asean Fund along with Chinese companies and a Cambodia partner.

I cannot tell who the [Cambodian] shareholder is because it is quite confidential. But I can just tell you that we have a close relationship with Bayon TV.

How much will the services cost?

What I can say is that the price is quite acceptable when you take into account the quality of service we will provide and what customers are used to on the market. Customers will not be disappointed by the price when they see this.

Why do you think now is the right time to launch this service in Cambodia?

The objective of China-Asean Fund, is to invest in ASEAN countries. In recent years, the development of internet digital TV has been paid significant attention around the world. Internet digital TV is a popular field, covering information technology and media industry and has expanded into a new market combining infotainment, communication and internet applications. Cambodia’s economy is going up and we want to move forward with Cambodia. We want to provide entertainment services to Cambodia and give them access to all useful information.

What areas do your service cover?

It is in testing phase. For OTT, we are now operating in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. For DTT, we will provide the services to eight provinces along Tonle Sap lake. We now have about 100 users for OTT and another 200 users for OTT TV.

How will your new services compete with internet service providers and TV operators in Cambodia?

I think we will speed up the trend to reinvest. Current operators need to improve their services. We are the benchmark of the market.

Now some TV operators still provide analog TV, which has a lower image quality. By doing this in digital TV, we are improving users’ experiences because we improve the image quality.