Neak Leng Kun to Promote Traditional Martial Arts
Organizers Soy Phannich and Vy Tara spoke of the origins and purposes of the competition. Photo: ThmeyThmey
- By Romdoul Chetra
- December 7, 2023 5:12 PM
PHNOM PENH – Neak Leng Kun, a competition for martial arts enthusiasts, will be held on Dec. 16. Its main purpose is to promote traditional Khmer martial arts, especially kun lbokator.
Players with mixed martial arts and special tricks in fighting from Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines and Indonesia will take part.
Organizers Soy Phannich and Vy Tara spoke of the origins and purposes of the competition.
Vy Tara said Neak Leng Kun is translated from the Khmer word. It was inspired by rice farmers who enjoyed Khmer martial arts in their leisure time. This tournament will show how ancient people fought to protect their village and themselves in ancient times.
“In addition to promoting Khmer martial arts and its traditional techniques to the world, this tournament will open up new opportunities for those who love Khmer traditional martial arts to take part in the competition rather than just training to protect themselves,” they said.
The competition also aims to promote kun lbokator as this is the first professional level competition.
Soy Phannich said there were only performances and sport competitions for fighters so far. This tournament will give them a chance to fight in international professional level competitions.
Fighters also take part in other martial arts, including kickboxing, sambo, MMA and jiujitsu.
Winners will get medals in the form of a shield with sak yant designs.
Soy Phannich said these designs are to motivate fighters to defend themselves and use their best endeavors.
He also revealed plans to make armor for the next professional competition for medal winners.
Seven Cambodian players will take part in the Dec. 16 competition. They are Chan Ratana, Nang Sovann, Pich Khamtai, Long La, Rin Saroth, Sovannaphum Rongroeurng and Meas Reacheas.
Neak Leng Kun will be held at the Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh from 6:30 pm.
Originally written in Khmer for ThmeyThmey, this story was translated by Rin Ousa for Cambodianess.
