AKP Phnom Penh, March 25, 2026 --

The Royal Government of Cambodia has authorised the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport to host the 23rd ASEAN University Games in 2028, bringing together student athletes from 11 countries across the region.

H.E. Pon Sok, Director General of Sports at the Ministry, said on Mar. 24 that Cambodia plans to feature between 15 and 18 sports at the regional event.

He explained that the number of sports will be determined based on the student athlete framework under the management of the Student Sports Federation, which differs from professional competitions such as the SEA Games and Asian Games.

As part of its preparations, Cambodia will send a delegation to compete in the 22nd ASEAN University Games in Malaysia, scheduled for Dec. 10–19, 2026. The Kingdom is expected to participate in eight potential sports.

In addition to competition, Cambodia will also send artists to perform and showcase national culture during the event, including at the flag-raising ceremony, as part of efforts to promote the country and prepare for hosting in 2028.

At the 21st edition held in Indonesia in July 2024, Cambodia showed improved performance, winning a total of eight medals – one gold, four silver, and three bronze – in Petanque, Judo, Taekwondo WT, and Karate.

The Cambodian Student Sports Federation is currently working closely with relevant stakeholders to identify and train talented athletes for the 2026 Games, while also developing a comprehensive master plan to ensure a successful hosting in 2028. 

Article in Khmer by Heng Nalin
Article in English by Lim Nary