The October 20 closing ceremony of last year’s Samdech Borvor Thipadei Cup featured incredible displays of the various martial arts forms which were developed during the time of the Khmer Empire. NOCC
Prime Minister Hun Manet has shared his support for the ongoing work of a special committee which was established to conduct thorough research into traditional Khmer martial arts.
The committee aims to identify and define each of the styles of the warriors of the ancient Khmer Empire. The prime minister described its work as “crucial for the rescue of almost lost martial arts and for the preservation of the ones currently in development”.
Manet shared his sentiment during a February 4 meeting with Senior Minister Thong Khon, the chair of the research committee. During the meeting, held at the Peace Palace, Khon presented updates on the work of the committee.
Khon explained that its members have completed several key tasks and divided responsibilities for different martial arts among several dedicated research teams.
He noted that the foundation of the research is based on human knowledge. Additional work involves artefacts like ancient scripts and the carvings found at the Kingdom’s many temples.
The prime minister praised the work that has so far been completed and reiterated his belief that the preservation of the Kingdom’s traditional martial arts for future generations of Cambodians is essential.
Prime Minister Hun Manet speaks at the courtesy meeting and discussion with the head of the research committee which is compiling the secrets of the Kingdom’s ancient martial arts. STPM
“This study must be done with accuracy and clarity, based on historical evidence, as it is the most important official document ever compiled on the subject,” he explained.
He also urged the committee to continue their work on clearly identifying the different types of Khmer martial arts in order to rescue those that are on the verge of being lost and to preserve those currently being revived.
Khon also briefed him on preparations for the 2nd edition of the “Samdech Borvor Thipadei Cup”, scheduled to be held at the end of 2025.
The prime minister suggested that as many forms of fighting styles be involved as possible, so the Cambodian people can better understand the rich heritage of Khmer traditional martial arts.
