MFC X Sarawak Martial Arts 2.0 draws strong participation, organisers praise athletes

KUCHING (Nov 30): The MFC X Sarawak Martial Arts 2.0 organising chairman and tournament director Tsan Nieng Khai paid heartfelt tribute to athletes, coaches and supporters for their commitment, passion and competitive spirit as the event drew strong participation from across the country.

Addressing the crowd at the press conference at Sarawak MMA Sports Hub (SMASH) at the fourth floor of Boulevard Shopping Mall here on Saturday, Tsan thanked athletes who “came all the way” to compete and demonstrate what he described as true heart and warrior spirit.

The Sarawak Mixed Martial Arts Association president said their presence not only elevated the tournament but also showcased the strength and character of Malaysia’s combat sports community.

Tsan, who is also Mad Fight Club president, emphasised that the tournament serves as an important platform for local athletes to prove their capabilities on a wider stage.

“We want Malaysia, and the world, to see that our athletes are warriors, that we are headhunters, that we are here to prove a point,” he said.

“We are strong, we are skilful, and we can achieve great things.”

Drawing from his own background as a former athlete, Tsan said he understood the challenges of the journey both for athletes and the coaches who guide them.

He expressed deep appreciation for the coaches, seniors and gym leaders who continue to invest their time, resources and expertise to support their fighters.

Visibly moved, he acknowledged the dedication shown by participants who trained hard and made the effort to be part of the event.

“I’m speechless because I see how much time you’ve taken to prepare yourselves to come here,” he said.

Tsan also reaffirmed his commitment to growing the sport by developing a broader, more diverse pool of officials.

He stressed the importance of neutrality and fairness in competition, noting that future plans include bringing in more coaches, referees and technical personnel from different gyms and states.

“I don’t want referees only from my gym or one specific gym. We want Malaysia and the world to see that referees from everywhere can be here, so that the competition remains fair. Fairness is everything.”

He concluded by thanking all participants, supporters and organisers for helping build a credible, respected combat sports platform for Sarawak and Malaysia.

More than 100 participants from Kuching, Sri Aman, Miri, Bintulu, Serian, Sibu and Daro, and neighbouring state Sabah as well as internationally from India, Indonesia, and China, are vying for honours over 54 bouts involving boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts matches.