KUCHING: Sarawak will host an international muay thai championship this September following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Sarawak State Muaythai Association (PMNS) and Pahlawan Championship.
The partnership is aimed at bringing a world-class combat sports event to Sarawak, featuring both local and international athletes, and further elevating Sarawak’s status in the global muay thai scene.
The MoU signing ceremony was held in conjunction with the introduction of participants and contingents for the 10th Edition 2026 TYT Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Muay Thai Championship & Borneo Cup 2026 at the Kuching Waterfront recently.
PMNS was represented by its president, Jumaat Ibrahim, while Pahlawan Championship was represented by Muhammad Faizol Mohd Mokhtar.
Jumaat described the collaboration as a strategic move to further popularise muay thai in Sarawak, while also creating a stronger platform for talent development.
He said the upcoming championship would not only serve as a competitive platform but also help identify and nurture new fighters who can compete at international level.
“Through the organisation of this championship, we can indirectly place Sarawak on the global muay thai map with the participation of international-level fighters,” he said.
Jumaat added that the event would also contribute to sports tourism, aligning with the state’s broader economic and development agenda.
“This will also support the growth of sports tourism, in line with the empowerment agenda emphasised by the state government,” he added.
Meanwhile, Faizol said the championship is expected to be one of the largest combat sports events ever staged in Sarawak, positioning the state as an emerging hub for combat sports in the region.
He noted that the event will feature a mix of local and international muay thai athletes, creating opportunities for local fighters to test themselves against higher-level competition.
“This is not just a competition, but a platform to empower local athletes and provide opportunities for new talents to shine on the world stage,” he said.
Faizol added that Sarawak was chosen due to its strong support for muay thai and the active role played by PMNS in developing the sport at grassroots and competitive levels.
It is understood that Pahlawan Championship has previously featured renowned muay thai stars such as Superbon and Superlek, among other international names.
The MoU signing was witnessed by Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED), Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
