The Prime Minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, has unveiled plans for the inaugural all-Khmer-style mixed martial arts (MMA) competition during the launch of the 2nd Asian Mixed Martial Arts Championship (AMMA Championship). This groundbreaking event is scheduled to take place annually, commencing this October, with the goal of showcasing Cambodia’s unique combat systems.
In his announcement, Manet emphasized the importance of highlighting traditional Khmer martial arts to both the Cambodian populace and foreign audiences. Despite Cambodian athletes participating in various international MMA events, there is a need to exhibit the diverse range of martial arts indigenous to Cambodia. The Prime Minister expressed his desire for the competition to serve as a platform for athletes to display their skills and as a means to introduce the next generation of Cambodians to their rich martial arts heritage.
Furthermore, Manet extended an invitation for individuals from varied backgrounds, including civil servants, members of the armed forces, and foreigners, to participate in the all-Khmer-style MMA competition. The event will encompass a wide range of traditional Khmer martial arts, such as Kun Lbokator, Khla Krab, and Sra Nge Pen, with the aim of encouraging a large number of athletes to join the competition. Foreign participants must possess knowledge of a Khmer martial art to qualify for the event.
The Prime Minister also stressed the significance of hosting an MMA-style competition to provide an opportunity for people to witness the various Cambodian martial arts in action. By breaking away from the traditional approach of segregating fighters based on their martial arts style, the event is expected to attract a diverse group of athletes and bring more attention to Cambodian martial arts.
The Asian Mixed Martial Arts Championship, which takes place annually, features athletes and delegates from 18 countries, including India, South Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines, as well as hosts Cambodia. Manet highlighted the favourable conditions in the country, such as peace, political stability, and economic growth, as contributing factors to the development of sports and the creation of better sporting facilities for the general public. He also underscored the growing public engagement in sports, emphasizing its role in Cambodian society.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Manet reiterated the government’s support for sports, acknowledging its potential to promote tourism, culture, and the national economy. He also emphasized its role in fostering international solidarity and friendship between participating nations. The all-Khmer-style MMA competition promises to be an exciting showcase of Cambodia’s rich martial arts heritage and a platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills to a global audience.