The Ju-Jitsu Federation of Cambodia (JJFC), led by newly appointed president Pañathun Jayson Thong, has been granted the right to host the 5th Southeast Asian Regional Ju-Jitsu Championship 2026, which will take place in Siem Reap province in August.
According to a JJFC announcement, this is the first time Cambodia has been granted hosting rights for the regional event. The decision came after president Pañathun and first vice-president Jasper Martijn Paas signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Fahad Al Shamsi, secretary-general of the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union (JJAU).
Martijn Paas explained on November 19 that the MoU was signed on October 30, during the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain. During the signing ceremony, Pañathun showcased a tourism booklet promoting Siem Reap, where the championship will be hosted, in order to encourage all possible participants to attend.
Pañathun, who was elected as JJFC president for the 2025–2029 term on August 15, expressed great pride that Cambodia will host the competition.
“We are extremely proud to sign this MoU, which marks the first major event JJAU has authorised us to host,” he said, via a press release.
“We have achieved significant success in past competitions, including during the 32nd SEA Games. Now we are fully prepared to take the next step to further develop Ju-Jitsu in Cambodia,” he added.
During the 32nd SEA Games in 2023, hosted by Cambodia, the national Ju-Jitsu team claimed three gold medals, five silver and a bronze, placing second among the seven participating countries in the sport.
In addition, Cambodian Ju-Jitsu athletes have won medals in international competitions, and the sport continues to gain popularity and develop rapidly. The Southeast Asian Regional Ju-Jitsu Championship also continues to grow each year.
“Last year’s championship in the Philippines welcomed more than 500 athletes from across the region. Hosting the event in Siem Reap will be a great opportunity to strengthen Ju-Jitsu domestically and to promote Cambodia’s rich culture and tourist destinations to all participants,” said Pañathun.
“We are working closely with all ministries, institutions, authorities and relevant organisations to ensure smooth preparation. We are also seeking partners and sponsors to make this event an unforgettable experience for everyone involved,” he added.
The Cambodian Ju-Jitsu Federation expressed gratitude to the JJAU for its continuous support in developing the sport throughout Asia. Cambodia looks forward to welcoming delegations, coaches, athletes, and participants from across Southeast Asia to Siem Reap in August.
