The World Muaythai Council, the world governing body for the art and sport of Muaythai has received the highest possible honour any organization can receive in the Kingdom of Thailand; the Royal Patronage of His Majesty, the King of Thailand.
The World Muaythai Council has been established since 1995 under directive of the Royal Thai Government. WMC and IFMA have worked together since day one to promote and foster all aspects of Muaythai as a cultural art form towards the highest possible recognition. The special ceremony took place in the capacity-filled ballroom of the Sport Authority building of Thailand.
All government departments, sport and culture ministries, sport authorities, and all major Muaythai stadiums and promoters were invited to historic event. PDG. General Saiyud Kerdphol, General Wimon Wongwanich the former President of WMC, General Chatta Thanajaro the current President of WMC, Dr Sakchye Tapsuwan IFMA President and WMC General Secretary, Khun Kajorn Prowsree Vice President of the Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Stephan Fox Vice President of WMC and General Secretary of IFMA, and so many other notable VIPs were also in attendance. Over 20 representatives from the different embassies in Bangkok also came to witness the ceremony, along with representatives from the United Nations, and many other organizations.
Dr Sakchye started off the afternoon with a heart-warming welcome speech, outlining the event and the history of WMC. It was a proud moment when the Royal Cadets from the Royal Military Academy delivered the Royal Flag and the Royal Letter from His Majesty, showing respect to His Majesty the King and the Royal Patronage given to Muaythai. General Chetta then performed the royal oath on behalf of the World Muaythai Council.
General Wimon then delivered the congratulatory speech as the former president of the World Muaythai Council, followed by congratulatory speeches from representatives of all ministries, especially sports and culture. Stephan Fox, Vice President of WMC and General Secretary of IFMA, then made a presentation on the achievements from 1995 to 2014, and delivered the congratulations on behalf of the 128 international muaythai federations. A special congratulatory speech from National Olympic Council of Thailand, also under Royal Patronage, was delivered. An action-packed Wai Khru performance by Muaythai Juniors from the Laan Khru Suea House and a beautiful rendition of the “We Are Muaythai” song rounded up the historical event.
