Cambodia Advances ‘Smoke-Free Sports’ Policy, Expanding No-Smoking Rules to Sports Venues

  The Cambodian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports has released a smoke-free sports policy aimed at changing the environment and culture of sports venues to prevent health issues caused by smoking.

According to a report by Cambodian media Phnompenhpost on January 10, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports will issue a strict "smoke-free sports" policy.

An anonymous Cambodian sports official stated, "I know that smoking is harmful to my health and the health of those around me, but I feel uneasy without smoking, as if there is a sour taste in my mouth, and I only feel relaxed when I smoke." However, he emphasized that he would try to stay away from others who smoke to ensure he does not affect them.

The 'smoke-free sports' policy will prohibit smoking in athletes' residences, training grounds, spectator areas, and venues, as well as the distribution of various cigarettes. The policy hopes that everyone involved in sports activities will stop publishing any images related to smoking, cigarette distribution, or tobacco product promotions.

Hang Chuon, the Minister of Education for School Sports and Student Affairs in Cambodia, launched the guidelines for the "smoke-free sports" campaign on December 27, 2023, and conducted a wide release on January 4, 2024.

Minister Hang Chuon pointed out, "The implementation of this guideline aims to cultivate a smoke-free sports culture, maximize competitiveness, and prevent health issues caused by smoking for athletes, organizers, and spectators."

Additionally, the guidelines also prohibit the sale, distribution, and advertising of tobacco products in athletes' residences, training grounds, competition venues, spectator areas, and sports facilities. All sports leagues and clubs are required to incorporate the "smoke-free sports" policy into their regulations.