The World Muaythai Council under the directive of the Royal Thai Government the sole governing body for international muaythai, the Amateur Muaythai Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage of HRH Crown Prince of Thailand and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration signed a historical Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop and promote muaythai to Bangkok’s citizens.
The MOU states that a muaythai curriculum adopted from the Khan Programme of the WMC and IFMA will be introduced to all schools in Bangkok to utilise muaythai as a tool for a healthy lifestyle.
The City of Bangkok will organise muaythai promotions and competitions, both professional and amateur to boost the exposure of the sport.
Special children’s projects will also be set up to support the successful Muaythai Against Drugs programme already in place.
Over 700 people filled the Emerald Hotel ballroom, which made this one of the biggest press conferences ever held for muaythai.
The Governor of the City of Bangkok M.R. Sukhumbhand Paribatra thanked the WMC and AMTAT for this fantastic project and expressed his anticipation for the betterment of Bangkok citizens of all ages through the art of muaythai.
General Chetta Thanajaro, WMC President said that the WMC would continue to develop all aspects of the sport both nationally and internationally not just as a competition sport, but as a way of life.
Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of both IFMA and AMTAT stated that this is a historical moment and also stated that in light of the recent inclusion of IFMA into the TAFISA Sport for All Organisation, that this project is in line with the theme “Muaythai for Every Body”.
Mr. Stephan Fox, Vice President of the WMC and General Secretary of IFMA made a detailed presentation on the WMC and IFMA’s youth development projects and believed that muaythai has a bright future, as regardless of races and religions of the 120 member countries, honour, tradition, excellence and fair play are the foundation on which muaythai stands, and are also important elements in becoming well-balanced members of society.
