For the first time in history, Bhutan’s young Muaythai athletes will step onto the grand stage of the Asian Youth Games — a proud milestone reflecting the nation’s unwavering dedication to sport, culture, and youth development.
His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck., President of the Bhutan National Olympic Committee, emphasized that this achievement symbolizes Bhutan’s deep commitment to nurturing discipline, character, and leadership among its youth.
Muaythai in Bhutan goes beyond competition — it embodies respect, focus, and resilience. Following the historic state visit of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Her Majesty Queen Suthida of Thailand to Bhutan, the Kingdom became the 156th member of the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA).
Representing Bhutan at the Olympic Council of Asia’s Asian Youth Games are two remarkable young athletes — Sonam Dorji (15) and Pema Tsokye Dorji (14) — who rose through a national talent development program conducted in collaboration with IFMA.
Pema Tsokye Dorji shared:
“I’m so proud to represent the Kingdom of Bhutan in the Asian Youth Games. This is a dream come true, and I want to inspire more youth to take up sport.”
Sonam Dorji expressed:
“Muaythai has taught me to believe in myself and to respect every opponent. We carry not only our dreams but also the hopes of all Bhutanese youth. Bahrain, here we come!”
