Cambodia Martial Art Competition Champions Peace through Sport
- Apr 11
- 2 min read
Phnom Penh, Cambodia – In conjunction with the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, the Cambodian Tong Il Moo Do Federation held its national championship from April 8-11, 2026, at the Royal University of Phnom Penh. The event brought together athletes, coaches and supporters from across Cambodia, encouraging discipline, teamwork and sportsmanship.
Tong Il Moo Do is a comprehensive martial art system founded on principles of unifying body and mind, character development and spiritual growth. The championship also supported the vision of UPF by promoting peace through youth development, cooperation and mutual respect. Through friendly competition, participants strengthened unity and demonstrated the positive role of sport in building harmony within society.
Mr. Chamroeun Sophal, regional director of UPF-Indochina, stated that sport is a powerful tool to connect people beyond social and cultural differences, and helps inspire young people toward leadership and responsible citizenship.
During the closing ceremony on April 11, a message from the United Nations was delivered, highlighting the 2026 theme of the International Day of Sport: “Sport: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers.” The message emphasized the importance of sport in promoting inclusion, equality, peace and sustainable development.
The event was attended by senior representatives from government and sports institutions, including HE Dr. Chey Chap, adviser to the Royal Palace and president of the Cambodian Tong Il Moo Do Federation; HE Mr. Bou Chumserei, undersecretary of state at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports; Dr. Ouk Divorng, deputy director general of the Directorate General of Sports; Mr. Sam Sokyi, deputy director of the National Sport Training Center; Mr. Chamroeun Sophal, regional director of UPF-Indochina; and Mr. Ear Thou, vice president of the Cambodian Tong Il Moo Do Federation.
