Once again, the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) proudly joined Thailand in celebrating Children’s Day, known locally as Wan Dek a cherished national tradition held every second Saturday of January. Across the country, communities unite to honour the next generation, reinforcing the message that children are valued, supported, and central to the nation’s future.

For IFMA, Children’s Day holds special significance. Each year, the celebration is hosted at one of IFMA’s Sport Is Your Gang facilities programmes dedicated to empowering youth from challenging environments through the values, discipline, and cultural heritage of Muaythai. This year’s festivities took place at Laan Muay Kru Sua in Khlong Toei, one of Bangkok’s most vulnerable communities and home to one of IFMA’s longest-running youth development projects.

A Sanctuary of Hope Through Muaythai

The Khlong Toei facility is one of four Sport Is Your Gang centres in Bangkok and part of IFMA’s global initiative to provide young people with a positive alternative to gangs, violence, and high-risk behaviour. The philosophy is simple yet powerful: If a child must belong to a “gang,” let it be a gang of teammates, mentors, and role models. Let sport be their family.

Laan Muay Kru Sua was founded under the vision and leadership of Pichitr Kullavanijay, former Privy Councillor during the reign of His Majesty King Rama IX. Today, under the guidance of Winij Pakdeepinij, the centre continues to serve as a safe haven where children can learn, grow, and thrive.

The Sport Is Your Gang initiative was established by IFMA nearly 20 years ago and is now active in over 30 countries, transforming underprivileged communities into places of belonging and hope. In recognition of its global impact, the programme received the World Sport of the Year Award (2014), highlighting its contribution to social development through sport.

For 27 years, Kru Kae and his wife have dedicated their lives to training and mentoring the youth of Khlong Toei. Since its establishment in 1999, the centre has helped countless children develop discipline, confidence, and cultural pride through Muaythai. These young athletes are also enrolled in IFMA cultural programmes, giving them opportunities to perform and represent their community around the world—from Australia and Jamaica to Russia, Poland, Uzbekistan, and Argentina, with many more destinations along the way.

Reflecting on the importance of such initiatives, Sakchye Tapsuwan, President of IFMA, emphasized the role of Muaythai in education, culture, and international exchange—especially in communities where opportunity and support are needed most.

A Day of Joy, Culture, and Community

On Saturday, Laan Muay Kru Sua transformed into a vibrant playground filled with laughter, excitement, and celebration. The event welcomed many distinguished guests, including:

  • HSH Prince Nawaphansa Yugala, Chair of the IFMA Advisory Board
  • Sakchye Tapsuwan, IFMA President
  • Stephan Fox, President of AIMS and United Through Sports
  • Representatives of the Thai Identity Foundation
  • Janice Lyn, IFMA Sport Director
  • Members of the IFMA Headquarters
  • UTS Young Leaders
  • Numerous VIPs and supporters from the IFMA family and the wider sporting community

More than a celebration, Wan Dek at Laan Muay Kru Sua was a powerful reminder of sport’s unique ability to shape lives, strengthen communities, and give children hope. Through Muaythai, IFMA continues to stand with youth especially those most in need ensuring they are seen, supported, and given every opportunity to dream.