The 6th Kun Khmer World Championships in Preah Sihanouk were a double success, said organisers. Not only did the Kingdom’s traditional martial art gain widespread exposure; coastal tourism was also broadly promoted to an international audience.
The event, organised through the Kun Khmer International Federation (KIF), the Cambodian Khmer Boxing Federation and other stakeholders, was held in Preah Sihanouk province from February 10 to 13.
As host, Cambodia received widespread praise for its hospitality, with organisers covering transportation, accommodation and meals for all delegations, which participants described as efficient and well organised.
Competition for medals and world titles was conducted transparently and fairly, noted organisers, earning positive feedback from the representatives of the 20 nations which participated. Many of them have pledged to return for future editions to further support the development of Kun Khmer.
KIF secretary-general Khov Chhay said during the closing ceremony that the championships had been a resounding success, marked by unity, mutual respect and sporting honour.
“This international platform has brought member countries together to share experiences, learn from one another and jointly shape the future of a martial art we all respect and cherish,” he added.
Chhay noted that the participation of technical officials alongside 125 athletes demonstrated that Kun Khmer has become a bridge connecting nations, peoples and cultures on the global stage.
“We are not simply closing a tournament; we are opening a new chapter of international cooperation to professionalise and elevate Kun Khmer as a transparent, fair and internationally recognised combat sport with a clear future,” he said.
He called on the KIF’s 63 member countries and all stakeholders to support the sport’s development in a spirit of responsibility, understanding and positivity.
“Let us use Kun Khmer as a common language of friendship and positive energy, showing the world that sport can contribute to peace and a better future for humanity,” Chhay said.
Preah Sihanouk provincial governor Mang Sineth praised each of the parties involved for organising the championships smoothly and successfully, highlighting their transparency, unity and spirit of friendship.
He thanked both domestic and international athletes for helping promote Kun Khmer, Khmer culture and Cambodia’s tourism sector, particularly in Preah Sihanouk province.
As part of the tourism promotion effort, provincial authorities organised a special excursion on February 13 for the international delegations to visit Cambodia’s coastal attractions, including Koh Rong and other islands in the province.
Chhay said Cambodia’s beaches are internationally recognised, with Koh Rong standing out in particular.
“Delegates, coaches and athletes from more than 10 countries visited several islands and enjoyed what truly feels like paradise, with pristine scenery and clear waters,” he said.
He added that foreign participants shared photos and live videos on social media during the trip, helping showcase Cambodia’s coastal tourism to audiences in their home countries.
“This helps the world see Cambodia as a destination with beautiful natural tourism, especially here in Preah Sihanouk,” he said.
