Phnom Penh, Cambodia – January 2026
Phat Tola, Founder of Foodfrienz Manufacture, has been officially honored with the Asia SME 100 Rising Star Business of the Year 2026, one of Asia’s most respected recognitions for small and medium enterprises demonstrating exceptional growth, leadership, and innovation.
The award was presented as part of the Asia SME 100 Business Excellence Summit & Award 2026, held on Thursday, 22 January 2026, at the Sun & Moon Riverside Hotel, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The event gathered distinguished entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, and policymakers from across the region.
A Prestigious Regional Recognition
The Asia SME 100 Business Excellence Award is a highly selective recognition jointly organized by prominent regional and international institutions, including:
- Asia SME 100
- Association Global Entrepreneur 1% Club
- ESG-In Global
- OBOR Capital
- Moores Rowland Cambodia
- Corporation Secretary 101
The award honors enterprises that demonstrate sustainable business growth, ethical leadership, operational excellence, and meaningful contribution to regional economic development.
Being named a “Rising Star Business of the Year” places Foodfrienz Manufacture among a select group of high-potential companies shaping the future of Asia’s SME ecosystem.
Leadership Behind the Achievement
Under the leadership of Phat Tola, Foodfrienz Manufacture has grown into a forward-looking enterprise grounded in quality, innovation, and responsible production. The company’s development reflects a long-term vision—one that balances commercial success with social responsibility and sustainable practices.
The selection committee highlighted Mr. Tola’s:
- Strategic leadership and resilience
- Commitment to product development and operational excellence
- Contribution to job creation and local economic growth
- Forward-thinking approach aligned with ESG principles
These qualities positioned Foodfrienz Manufacture as a standout among hundreds of nominated SMEs across Asia.
Strengthening Cambodia’s Presence in the Regional Business Landscape
Receiving this award in Phnom Penh carries special significance. It reflects Cambodia’s growing role in regional entrepreneurship and reinforces the country’s capacity to produce globally competitive businesses led by visionary local leaders.
“This recognition is not only a personal honor,” said Phat Tola, “but also a reflection of the collective effort of my team, partners, and the wider Cambodian business ecosystem. It affirms that businesses built with integrity, discipline, and long-term vision can earn regional and international respect.”
Looking Forward
The Asia SME 100 Rising Star Business of the Year 2026 award marks an important milestone—but not the destination. For Phat Tola and Foodfrienz Manufacture, it represents a renewed commitment to:
- Continuous innovation
- Sustainable business practices
- Regional collaboration
- Creating long-term value for customers, partners, and society
As Asia’s SME landscape continues to evolve, this recognition stands as both an achievement and a responsibility—to lead, to inspire, and to build businesses that matter.
