Phnom penh: Cambodian agricultural powerhouse DP Majas Chamkar Co., Ltd. has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Malaysia's Jemaluang Dairy Valley Sdn. Bhd. to launch a US$10 million integrated dairy farm and processing facility, marking a major step toward self-sufficiency in Cambodia's milk production.
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the agreement was finalised on Feb. 7 at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. The signing ceremony featured Neak Oknha Tieng Phalla, CEO of DP Majas Chamkar, and Mr. Qasem Athasan, Chairman of Jemaluang Dairy Valley, with Neak Oknha Mam Vandy, Chairman of the Board of DP Majas Chamkar, in attendance.
The US$10 million venture aims to address a critical supply gap in the Cambodian market, where fresh milk demand is surging but remains largely dependent on foreign imports. To jumpstart operations, the partnership has already placed an order for 500 dairy cattle from Australia.
"This marks a new chapter for 2026," said Neak Oknha Tieng Phalla. "By partnering with a Malaysian leader that holds international technical standards, we are not just seeking profit; we are focused on creating jobs and building a 'Product of Cambodia' brand that the nation can be proud of."
DP Majas Chamkar is already a dominant player in the livestock sector, managing over 3,000 heads of premium beef cattle - including Japanese Wagyu, Australian Angus, American Brahman, and French Charolais - at its expansive Kampong Chhnang facility.
Neak Oknha Mam Vandy highlighted that the move into dairy was catalysed by shifts in consumer behaviour and a growing "Buy Khmer" sentiment. "We observed that domestic production cannot yet meet daily demand," he noted. "With the Royal Government's encouragement for local investment, we decided to commit US$10 million to establish a high-standard factory. This is about turning a market challenge into a national investment opportunity."
The partnership leverages the expertise of Jemaluang Dairy Valley, a Malaysian firm with government-backed equity and a proven track record. Mr. Qasem Athasan, who scaled Jemaluang from a modest four-cow operation to a herd of over 5,000, emphasised that the Cambodian project will prioritise advanced infrastructure and biosecurity.
"Success in dairy isn't just about having the cows; it's about the technical skill in nutrition, care, and the production chain," he stated. "Our focus will be on quality, safety, and hygiene to ensure Cambodian consumers receive premium-grade fresh milk."
The joint venture aligns with the Royal Government of Cambodia's vision to modernise the agricultural sector and reduce the trade deficit through local industrialisation. The new facility is expected to begin production in the coming months.