PHNOM PENH, May 6 — Malaysia’s Kun Khmer exponent, Atachai Saiphawat Kiang contributed a bronze in the 2023 SEA Games here in his maiden appearance.

Despite facing hundreds of host fans at Morodok Sports Complex, the Malaysian contestant of Thai descent who hails from Perlis put up an impressive performance in Kun Kruk event in the 54 kilogramme category.

Host contestant Meng Hong Kan topped the event while Vietnamese athlete Khamlar Samavong took home the silver medal.

Meanwhile, Kun Khmer national team manager Mohd Izad Buqhary Mohd Kamri hopes Athachai’s victory can inspire other teammates to win medals in their first appearance at the biennial games.

"As you know, this sport is dominated by the hosts, Laos and Vietnam. But our athlete is able to prove his ability by winning a medal,” he said and added that other Malaysian representatives will continue the challenge in the 54 and 67 kg categories.

Kun Khmer which is a traditional Cambodian sport that is similar to the martial art of Muay Thai, is offering a total of 19 gold medals at this championship. — Bernama