Phnom Penh, 12 July 2024: Prime Minister Hun Manet has proposed the annual organization of a traditional Khmer martial arts competition in October, starting from 2024. This event will be open to all traditional Khmer martial arts practitioners, including both the public and civil servants of the Armed Forces, regardless of nationality.
Hun Manet made this announcement while presiding over the opening ceremony of the "Second Asian MMA Championship" held at the National Olympic Stadium on the evening of July 11, 2024.
During the event, Hun Manet emphasized that this competition aims to provide an opportunity for practitioners of all forms of traditional Khmer martial arts to showcase their skills. The event will also serve to demonstrate to the public, youth, and the international community the rich heritage of martial arts in Cambodia. It will create opportunities for further research and documentation of ancient Khmer martial arts. In line with this, he recommended the establishment of an institute dedicated to compiling and researching ancient Khmer martial arts.
Hun Manet also highlighted that, under the roof of peace, political stability, and economic growth, the Royal Government of Cambodia is committed to the development of sports. This commitment aims to create better conditions for the general population to engage in sports and improve their health, while also strengthening the capabilities of athletes.