Phnom Penh: 12 July 2026 – The Embassy of Japan in Cambodia, in collaboration with the Cambodia-Japan Cooperation Center (CJCC) and the Japan Foundation Phnom Penh Liaison Office, successfully hosted the “NODOJIMAN Japanese Song Contest 2026″ on Sunday at Angkor-Kizuna Hall, CJCC, as part of the Tanabata Festival 2026.
Celebrating its 14th anniversary, the annual contest continues to serve as a platform for Cambodian Japanese-language learners and music enthusiasts to showcase their talents while deepening their appreciation of the Japanese language and culture.
Delivering the opening remarks, Mr Matsuda, Counselor of the Embassy of Japan in Cambodia, welcomed the large audience and highlighted the significance of the contest in promoting cultural exchange between Japan and Cambodia.
“The NODOJIMAN Japanese Song Contest is celebrating its 14th anniversary this year. We organise this contest with the hope that it helps participants discover the joy of learning Japanese through Japanese songs,” he said, expressing his hope that everyone attending would enjoy the performances.
This year’s competition attracted 57 applications from across Cambodia. Following a competitive preliminary selection, 14 teams comprising 16 contestants advanced to the final round, where they performed their favourite Japanese songs before an enthusiastic audience of more than 300 people.
Mr Matsuda noted that the preliminary rounds were highly competitive and said he was looking forward to hearing the finalists perform. He also expressed his sincere appreciation to the sponsoring companies, partners, and individuals whose generous support made the event possible. He further thanked Ms CHHIN Manich for her opening performance and encouraged all contestants to set aside their nervousness and enjoy their time on stage.
The competition concluded with an award ceremony recognising outstanding performances by the finalists. Ms POV Sreypin was awarded first prize, while Mr REAM Sophara received second prize and Ms KHUT Mardy secured third prize. Ms CHHIN Somanav earned the Best Japanese Pronunciation Award in recognition of her excellent command of the Japanese language, and Ms CHHEA Khvy received the Audience Award, voted for by attendees in appreciation of her performance.
Held annually, the NODOJIMAN Japanese Song Contest encourages Japanese language learners to improve their language skills through music while fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the people of Japan and Cambodia.
Concluding his remarks, Mr Matsuda wished all contestants the best of luck and invited the audience to offer their warmest support. He also expressed his hopes for the continued good health and happiness of everyone present and for the enduring growth of the longstanding friendship between Japan and Cambodia.
Photo by: Supplied
