By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 2: Sarawak’s efforts to elevate the sport of muaythai are part of a broader vision—not only to strengthen the sport locally but also to position the State as a premier venue for world-class sporting events.
In a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Sarawak Muaythai Association president Jumaat Ibrahim, said the association’s mission extends beyond developing skilled athletes as it is equally focused on showcasing Sarawak as a dynamic and welcoming host for international sports programmes and championships.
“Our journey would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Sarawak Ministry of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED).
“I’m proud to say our efforts are bearing fruit—Sarawak’s muaythai athletes are gaining recognition not only at home but also internationally. They’re representing Sarawak on both national and global platforms,” he added.
He highlighting this when addressing the 9th TYT Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Muaythai Championship and the Borneo Cup 2025 Participants Introduction Programme held at Square Tower, Kuching Waterfront on Thursday (May 1).
The event was officiated by Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Mayor Dato Hilmy Othman, and attended by permanent secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datu Sherrina Hussaini.
Jumaat highlighted that the association’s progress is driven by close collaboration with the Sarawak government, which is steadfast in its vision to turn Sarawak into a national sports powerhouse.
He added that the development of muaythai has positive ripple effects beyond the ring, especially for the economy and local communities.
“Every time our athletes travel for international tournaments, they bring along an entourage—each trip brings at least five visitors to Sarawak. These events benefit everyone from hotels to local traders. That’s the unique value of investing in sports,” he said.
Echoing this sentiment, Hilmy stressed that the TYT Muaythai Championship is more than a display of strength—it is a platform for shaping youth character, fostering discipline, and promoting unity.
“Sarawak’s overall victory in muaythai at Sukma 2024 is a testament to years of dedication. Muaythai is not just a competitive sport—it instills courage, discipline, and sportsmanship among our youth,” he said in a TVS news report.
The 2025 championship, set to take place from May 1 to 4, will feature 130 bouts including 16 Superfight Pro matches.
Over 250 fighters from both local and international clubs will participate. Competitors from Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Yemen, and Iran have confirmed their participation—further cementing Kuching’s status as a growing hub for sports and tourism.
To enhance the championship’s prestige, DBKU has agreed to designate the Kuching Waterfront as its permanent venue, following a request by the Sarawak Muaythai Association. The event returns to the waterfront after being held at the Kuching Amphitheatre last year.
“The Kuching Waterfront is not only logistically suitable—it allows greater public engagement and exposes more people to the beauty and discipline of muaythai,” Hilmy noted.
He expressed confidence that the championship will continue to discover emerging talents, strengthen social cohesion, and offer youth a platform to excel through camaraderie and competition.
