Mr. VAR Vichea is the Director of the Licensing and Legal Affairs Department at the Insurance Regulator of Cambodia, Non-Bank Financial Services Authority. He has been working in the insurance industry since 2017 and has extensive experience in researching and developing the legal framework for the insurance sector, as well as mediating insurance disputes. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in establishing several fundamental regulations in the insurance industry, including the Sub-decree on Insurance, the Sub-decree on Micro-insurance, and other essential regulations that support the sector. Furthermore, he has successfully mediated numerous insurance disputes, protecting the interests of both insureds and insurers.

He graduated from Royal University of Law and Economics with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations in 2014 and Nagoya University, Japan, with a Master’s Degree in Comparative Law (LL.M.) in 2016. He has also completed various international insurance trainings. He obtained a Diploma in General Course in Non-Life Insurance in 2017 and a Diploma in Advanced Course in Non-Life Insurance in 2019 from the Insurance School (Non-Life) of Japan. In 2023, he became a fellow of the Global Financial Partnership Center of the Financial Services Agency of Japan.

What have been your journey leading you to RULE?

My colleague in the insurance industry recommended me to RULE, as he believes I am qualified to share my expertise in insurance with the program at RULE. Moreover, as an alumnus of RULE, I am excited to return to the place where I grew and to share my knowledge and expertise with the students.

Can you describe how the course(s) you teach are relevant in the current context? 

The course ‘Insurance Institutions Legal Framework in Cambodia and ASEAN’ provides students with an understanding of the structure of insurance institutions, including regulators, types of insurers, supporting services, and the principles of governance and supervision. This knowledge is particularly relevant in the context of Cambodia and ASEAN, as the insurance market grows when people understand the insurance key players, how the sector is regulated, and the regulations that support the industry.

Can you tell us about your experience as a teacher for an international program in Cambodia? 

I find the international program in Cambodia remarkable because it brings together both Cambodian and French students. With their diverse cultural and educational backgrounds, students are able to exchange unique insights and engage in meaningful discussions. In addition, I can contribute my expertise as an insurance regulator in Cambodia by sharing theoretical and practical perspectives, particularly on the country’s insurance policies and development plans.

What do you like the most in teaching at RULE? 

RULE is a reputable university in Cambodia that has incorporated insurance into its international program on Risk Management for Insurance, Banking, and Finance. This milestone represents a significant contribution to developing human resources in the insurance sector and to promoting the growth of the industry as a whole.

Do you have any recommendations for future students and graduates?

If you are reading this, it means you’re interested in the international program at RULE and that is a great decision. Take the opportunity, study hard, and stay connected with your classmates. They will become an important part of your future professional network.