KUCHING: The Sarawak Muaythai Association (PMNS) has called on the state government to consider featuring muaythai as one of the events in the upcoming Borneo Games, set to be revived next year.
PMNS President Jumaat Ibrahim noted the sport’s widespread popularity across Borneo, particularly in Pontianak, Brunei Darussalam, Labuan, and Sabah.
He said that these regions have consistently supported muaythai events organised in Sarawak.
“Participants from Sabah, Labuan, West Kalimantan, and Brunei always join our muaythai competitions in Sarawak.
“I sincerely hope the government will give serious consideration to including muaythai in the Borneo Games,” he said during a press conference at the Eden Idol 2024 Karaoke Competition here on Friday (Dec 27).
Jumaat’s appeal aligns with Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development (MYSED) Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah’s recent announcement in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) that the Borneo Games will return next year.
However, the specific dates and venue for the event have yet to be finalised.
Jumaat also called for greater support from the Sarawak government, particularly the MYSED, to boost the growth of muaythai in the state.
“As a non-governmental organisation (NGO), PMNS faces challenges in sustaining its financial resources, especially in the current economic climate.
“We genuinely hope the government can assist and support our programmes,” he added.
He asserted that PMNS aims to promote muaythai further and send athletes abroad for advanced training, citing the effectiveness of this strategy in improving performance.
Speaking about preparations for the 2026 Malaysia Games (SUKMA), Jumaat assured that efforts are already underway, with athletes being sent to Thailand for intensive training.
“To retain our title as overall champions in muaythai at SUKMA 2024, we must start preparations early with the support of various stakeholders, especially the Sarawak government,” he said.
He expressed optimism that with adequate support, Sarawak could further solidify its position as a regional hub for muaythai.
