ASEAN-SPORTS | Cambodia promotes sport as force for peace in ASEAN

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The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport is leading the effort through a key workshop on the ASEAN Sports Master Plan 2026–2030, currently taking place in Phnom Penh. Known as “sports for peace,” the initiative seeks to foster harmony, understanding and stability among ASEAN member states.

Held at Hotel Cambodiana from yesterday until today, the workshop brought together representatives of all 11 ASEAN countries. Eight delegations are attending in person, while three are joining online, showing strong regional engagement as Cambodia prepares to host the ASEAN Sports Ministers’ Meetings in 2026 and 2027.

National Olympic Committee of Cambodia Secretary-General Vath Chamroeun said Cambodia is determined to place peace at the centre of ASEAN’s sporting agenda. He described sport as a platform that connects people and nations, creating opportunities for dialogue and cooperation.

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“Sport helps people connect, share ideas and avoid confrontation,” he said. “The peace proposal is what Cambodia is pushing again and again for ASEAN to prioritise.”

The workshop aims to ensure that Cambodia’s plans align with ASEAN’s broader vision for sport. It also provides a space for regional stakeholders to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration.

Alongside peace-building, the meeting focuses on developing human resources in professional sport. This includes boosting cooperation between countries, sharing expertise in sports science, and encouraging wider participation in major competitions such as the Southeast Asian Games. The goal is to raise the skills of athletes, officials and young professionals while building stronger regional networks.

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Another priority is promoting traditional sports and national identity. Cambodia plans to lead a regional effort to research, revive and showcase traditional games from across ASEAN. The programme is expected to begin during the 2027 ASEAN Sports Ministers’ Meeting, with cultural and martial arts performances planned in Siem Reap.

The ministry hopes the workshop will lay a strong foundation for future cooperation. By focusing on peace, professional development and cultural heritage, Cambodia aims to strengthen its role in ASEAN sport and inspire a new generation of athletes and sports professionals across the region.

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