Phnom Penh, Cambodia – A local eatery in the capital, Mlup Chhat Toul Tompong restaurant, located at the prominent corner of Street 135 and Street 454 in Sangkat Toul Tum Poung 1, Khan Chamkar Morn, has fully committed to exclusively utilizing the Cambodian Riel (KHR) for all its transactions. This dedicated practice extends from customer payments for popular dishes like chicken, rice, pork, porridge, noodles, fries, and various beverages, to essential business operations including staff salaries and delivery services.
Over the past five years, the family-run establishment has observed a substantial increase in income processed in KHR, particularly noting a rise through modern digital payment solutions such as the Bakong or KHQR systems. This strategic approach was confirmed by the restaurant’s owner, Kie Guek Joo.
Beyond operational efficiency, the owner of Mlup Chhat Toul Tompong views this commitment as a demonstration of full participation in promoting the riel as a vital component of Cambodia’s national identity. The restaurant consistently quotes prices in KHR to customers and manages all income and expenses, including employee compensation, solely in the national currency.
The exclusive use of the Cambodian Riel offers distinct advantages. Patrons and businesses alike benefit from the simplicity of KHR payments across all trading activities and daily services, eliminating concerns about counterfeit banknotes—a risk sometimes associated with foreign currencies. Furthermore, using the riel frees individuals from the complexities and anxieties of fluctuating exchange rates, which can impact transactions involving currencies like the US dollar. Ms. Hoeun Soknan, a 50-year-old regular, shared her positive experience, noting that embracing the national currency for daily spending has simplified her financial interactions. For her, the riel is not merely a convenient medium of exchange but also a source of pride for all Cambodians in possessing a fully representative national currency.
