KUCHING: The Sarawak Muaythai Association (PMNS) has welcomed the decision by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) to support and fund only those athletes who participate in muaythai events sanctioned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
PMNS president Jumaat Ibrahim lauded the directive as a timely move that will elevate the standard of the sport and enhance the credibility of competitions nationwide.
“This is the right step forward. It will help produce more athletes through championships recognised by the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA),” he said in a statement recently.
As the government-appointed body tasked with promoting muaythai in the state, PMNS adheres strictly to guidelines issued by the Malaysian Muaythai Association (PMM), which is recognised by both IFMA and KBS.
Jumaat urged all affiliated clubs to do the same and ensure their participation is limited to KBS- and IFMA-approved events.
His remarks follow a statement by Deputy Youth and Sports Minister, Adam Adli, in Parliament earlier this week, affirming that KBS and the National Sports Council (MSN) will not fund athletes competing in unsanctioned events.
He further stressed that IOC-recognised tournaments provide athletes with safer, more structured platforms and greater long-term career prospects, especially for younger fighters aiming to represent the nation.
“To all aspiring muaythai athletes – don’t take shortcuts. Join IOC-recognised events for your own future,” he advised.
He also expressed gratitude to KBS for its continued financial support in organising both national and international-level championships, which he said not only nurture future champions but also contribute positively to Sarawak’s sports tourism sector.
At the national level, he added, KBS remains an active partner in supporting educational and exposure programmes run by PMM through consistent funding allocations.
