Phnom Penh (FN), Jul. 11 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has called on martial arts enthusiasts to participate in annual martial arts competitions starting this October as Cambodia plans to organize Khmer Martial Arts competitions, offering a platform for fighters to showcase their skills.

The premier spoke on Thursday (Jul. 11) during the opening of the 2nd Asian Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Championship in Phnom Penh.

"I have proposed organising a traditional Khmer martial arts competition every October, starting in 2024. This event will be open to all types of traditional Khmer martial arts practitioners from everywhere. All participants, including ordinary people, civil servants, armed forces, and foreigners, are welcome," the premier underscored.

Samdech Thipadei highlighted that this competition aims to create an opportunity for citizens who practice traditional Khmer martial arts to showcase their abilities. It also aims to demonstrate to the public, youth, and the international community that Cambodia has a rich variety of martial arts. Additionally, it will create opportunities for research and re-compilation of these martial arts. Therefore, Samdech Thipadei recommended establishing a chamber to compile research on ancient Khmer martial arts.

It should be noted that previous martial arts competitions have been organized separately, such as Khmer boxing and Kun Lbokator. However, starting this October, Cambodia will host traditional Khmer mixed martial arts competitions.
=FRESH NEWS