The eight students in the gym are of mixed experience. All are in their early 20s, and some are clearly long-term practitioners.
Tep Vathana, a 21-year-old International Relations student, however, has only been learning Bokator for two weeks. In a country where female participation in sport it has traditionally be frowned on, Vathana’s parents have been supportive of her efforts to exercise. They also have her safety in mind. ‘One of my friends received some sexual harassment, so I also think it is important for girls to know ways to help protect themselves,’ she explains.
Although her girlfriends think she is weird for wanting to learn Bokator, the nightly two-hour sessions at $25 a week are not only fun, but serve as a way for Vathana to preserve the traditional martial arts form. ‘It is not that well-known among young people. Japanese or Korean forms are more recognisable, so I feel it needs attention from the young, and I am happy to support it.’
As the long-standing government of Prime Minister Hun Sen continues to promote sport as an example of its power and popularity, Bokator is benefiting as well. Last year, it was announced that the army would adopt Bokator in training.
“Before they did Taekwondo, now Bokator. It is good,” says Master Kim with a smile. He also said that plans for grade seven to nine students across the country to receive lessons as part of their sports curriculum would start this year. ‘It has been difficult to train the 300 instructors we need, but the lessons will begin this year.’
Despite the apparent difficulties, the decision by the government was ‘smart,’ according to prominent Cambodian political analyst Ou Virak. ‘It will benefit the public education to include art and sport in school curriculum. I think this certainly has a nationalist touch as Cambodian youths are desperate for identity and pride. I think it will be viewed positively by the people. If the ruling party is putting these efforts to get votes, that’s perfect.’
