Sabay Cinema Marks a Significant Takeover, Shaping a New Era for Cambodia’s Entertainment Landscape
Cambodia’s entertainment landscape entered a new chapter with the official launch of Sabay Cinema on March 5, 2026, formerly operating under Major Cineplex Cambodia. This transformation follows Major Cineplex Group’s regional divestment from Cambodia as part of its broader strategic realignment.
In response, Sabay Digital Group moved decisively to acquire the entire shareholding previously owned by Major Cineplex Group, bringing both the cinema and bowling business operations under Cambodian ownership and control.
This transition represents more than a strategic business decision—it marks a meaningful step toward strengthening national cultural industries and placing the future of cinema and entertainment firmly in Cambodian hands.
As part of this transformation, the existing Blue-O Bowling brand has been reintroduced as Sabay Rhythm & Bowl, reflecting Sabay’s vision to build a fully integrated, modern entertainment ecosystem that extends beyond movies and enhances lifestyle and social experiences for all generations.
The official launch event was held at Sabay Cinema Hall at AEON Mall Phnom Penh on March 5, 2026, bringing together leading local media organisations, industry leaders, creative professionals, and distinguished guests. Their presence underscored strong public confidence, transparency, and Sabay’s long-term commitment to the industry.
Operations across all six cinema locations continue uninterrupted. Audiences will now experience a refreshed brand identity, improved service standards, and a forward-looking strategy aimed at strengthening Cambodia’s cinema and entertainment sector.
Sabay will assume full responsibility for all employees, cinema and bowling facilities, equipment, and technology. The company will independently manage and invest in its systems, including newly installed IMAX Laser and ScreenX technologies, as well as existing projection infrastructure.
New ticketing systems, online booking platforms, and comprehensive brand upgrades will also be introduced. In addition, selected spaces within Sabay Cinema venues will be redeveloped into more customer-friendly environments, including co-working areas, coffee shops, and creative spaces designed to support young filmmakers through networking, collaboration, and training opportunities.
“Today marks our commitment to transparency and the beginning of Sabay Cinema’s journey to build a stronger foundation in Cambodia while raising the standard of the country’s cinema and entertainment industry,” said Chy Sila, Owner of Sabay Cinema
Under one unified leadership, Sabay Cinema advances with a clear ambition: strengthening and investing in Cambodia’s film and creative ecosystem, and elevating the national entertainment landscape through sustainable growth.
As this new chapter begins, Sabay Cinema stands as a Cambodian-led enterprise committed to empowering local talent, growing independently, and driving the future of the country’s storytelling and entertainment industry.
About Sabay Cinema and Sabay Digital Group
Sabay Cinema delivers world-class movie experiences across Cambodia, combining state-of-the-art technology, experienced local teams, and a long-term strategic vision. The brand is committed to elevating the country’s cinema and entertainment landscape while creating meaningful and joyful experiences for audiences nationwide.
Sabay Digital Group is a leading Cambodian media and technology group founded in 2007, with diversified operations across digital content, entertainment, and lifestyle-related businesses. Since 2010, Sabay has actively invested in the cinema and film industry, including movie distribution, local film production and investment, and cinema operations—playing a key role in developing Cambodia’s modern entertainment ecosystem.
This press release was supplied.
