KUCHING: The RM290,000 funding for Muay Thai in Sarawak is more than just financial assistance; it represents a clear signal of recognition and trust in the sport’s ability to produce elite-level talent, according to veteran sports analyst, Datuk Pekan Ramli.
Speaking in response to the announcement made in Parliament recently, Pekan said the allocation demonstrates the state’s serious intent to strengthen Muay Thai’s grassroots ecosystem while creating a structured pathway for youth development in combat sports.
“This is not just an ordinary grant. To me, it is a form of recognition and trust that the sport of Muay Thai has the potential to produce outstanding talents who can bring glory to Sarawak in the future,” he said.
The RM290,000 allocation, channelled through the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), includes RM95,000 for Kelab Muaythai Rentap to organise the recently held Rentap Fighting Championship VI (July 11-12), and RM200,000 for the Sarawak Muaythai Association to stage the upcoming Premier Sarawak Cup.
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, Adam Adli Abd Halim, who revealed the figures in the Dewan Rakyat, said the funding is part of broader efforts by the federal government to promote Muay Thai and expand youth participation nationwide.
Pekan believes the funding should be strategically used to scout for young talents and build a more comprehensive training model that provides sustained athlete development.
“This funding can be utilised to scout for talent and focus specifically on developing these athletes through structured, phased training programmes.
“Young fighters should also be exposed gradually to competitive bouts so they are well-prepared to dominate the national scene,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
He added that Sarawak is well-positioned to become a leader in Malaysian Muay Thai, given the sport’s popularity in the state and the emergence of inspirational figures like Johan ‘Jojo’ Ghazali, who continues to shine on the international stage.
“Combat sports have always captured the interest of the people of Sarawak. If the state successfully builds an integrated grassroots development model for Muay Thai, we could see the rise of many more teenage sensations like Jojo,” he said.
He said that this is a golden opportunity as Jojo is still active, and he remains a role model admired by youth and the wider Sarawak community.
Moreover, Adam also disclosed that as of June 2025, over RM1.8 million has been distributed to support Muay Thai development nationwide through various mechanisms, including the Sports Body Grant (RM1.585 million), National Sports Trust Fund (RM247,000), Community Sports Fund (RM55,000), and international athlete support (RM170,000).
