PMNS praised for elevating muay thai in Sarawak

KUCHING: The Sarawak State Muay Thai Association (PMNS) received praises from Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman for its significant role in enhancing the development of close-combat sports.

Hilmy described PMNS’s efforts in promoting the muay thai sport as timely and commended it for producing new talent.

“This has the potential to produce new talents in this sport, which originated from Thailand, and it also strengthens Sarawak’s excellent reputation on the national sports stage.

“This is particularly important in such an intense discipline, especially given the achievements and excellence demonstrated by Sarawak’s athletes in every competition they have participated in thus far,” he said.

Hilmy made these remarks during the introduction ceremony for participants of the TYT Cup Muay Thai Championships 2024, at the Godown Amphitheatre at Kuching Waterfront last night (Oct 3).

He added that DBKU consistently supports the efforts of any organisation hosting international-level sporting activities and is prepared to assist these organisations to ensure the smooth running of events and competitions.

“DBKU also emphasises the importance of sports activities within the community to create a healthy and educated society.

“In fact, we organise various sports activities annually, such as the Siol International Mountain Bike Challenge and the Siol Trail Run,” Hilmy said.

He also commended PMNS for successfully organising the championship yearly, describing it as highly beneficial not only for the development of athletes but also for providing opportunities for the youth of Sarawak in general.

He also noted that hosting the international-level championship could significantly impact the tourism sector.

Hilmy explained that the championship could contribute to the growth of the tourism industry by attracting international visitors, with benefits extending to those in the hospitality and transport sectors.

“Once again, I would like to congratulate PMNS for their unwavering spirit and determination in promoting the sport of muay thai to an international level,” he added.

For the record, this year’s championship will last four days, from Oct 3 to 6, and will see over 200 participants representing various local clubs from across the country.

Thehe championship will also feature 30 competitors from abroad, including Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, and Iran.  

Also present at the event were PMNS president Jumaat Ibrahim and deputy director of the DBKU Community Service Department.