KOTA SAMARAHAN: The sixth edition of the NAO International Muaythai Championship 2026 delivered two days of explosive action as fighters from across Sarawak and Indonesia battled it out in Kota Samarahan recently.
Held at Dewan Aberich Bundle from May 1 to 2, the championship featured 57 bouts across semi-professional and amateur categories involving athletes from various clubs, including fighters from West Kalimantan, Indonesia.
Championship chairman, Ajan Putra, described this year’s turnout as extraordinary compared to previous editions.
“The response for this sixth edition was beyond expectations compared to the earlier editions. We saw fighters from various clubs and countries arriving with strong fighting spirit.
“Even fighters with only one or two bouts has already shown stronger fighting style and better skills because they are exposed to more events in Sarawak,” he said after the prize presentation ceremony.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Muaythai Association’s (PMNS) President, Jumaat Ibrahim, said grassroots tournaments remain important in developing fighters across the state, especially in rural areas.
“Kota Samarahan is quite far for some people. So, tournaments like this make it easier for local fighters to compete and test themselves.
“We have to continue going throughout Sarawak to promote muaythai and uncover new talents to represent Sarawak and Malaysia,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
A RM35,000 Sports Matching Grant was also presented to the Samarahan Division Muaythai Association during the event by Sarawak Youth and Sports Department’s (JBS) Director, Lamat Nyalau.
Several finals also took place on the final day, with fighters such as Wyjie Firdaus Aziz, Ar Rayyan, Sebastian Ling Chung Kiat, Ennaq Joel and Hana Humaira emerging victorious in their respective categories.
