Malaysia can be a Muay Thai powerhouse: Coach calls for stronger support
Unify, empower, and dominate - The formula for Malaysian Muay Thai success
SHAH ALAM - It's time for Muay Thai to be given the support needed to cultivate more high-quality champions for global recognition.
Coach Mohamad Ridhwan Mat Zain of the police force's Kuda Merah Club stressed that while the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) and the National Sports Council (NSC) have played their part, their efforts fall short.
He highlighted the necessity for more proactive involvement, urging all state Muay Thai associations under the Malaysian Muay Thai Association (PMM) to be actively engaged.
"KBS and NSC should take the lead in maximising the activities of state Muay Thai associations.
"While some are active, others lag. If everyone steps up, we can certainly produce more champions.
"For now, most training seems to be conducted in private clubs rather than under state associations.
"Many emerging talents bypass proper channels, hindering their progress.
"These talents deserve more recognition," he said.
National Muay Thai athlete Mohd Rifdean Masdor made headlines by defeating Thailand's representative, Pichai Lookbanmai, with a Technical Knockout (TKO) punch in the ONE Friday Fights 56 event in Thailand last month.
The remarkable victory came just 1 minute and 18 seconds into the first round at the ONE Championship at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok.
Ridhwan believes there are still hidden talents waiting to shine, possessing their unique skills and an indomitable spirit.
"Many of our champions have already made their mark internationally. This recent success is just the beginning; I see numerous new talents with immense potential. It's not just about talent; it's also about the spirit," he remarked.
He hoped that stakeholders, in collaboration with PMM and Muay Thai clubs, can proactively join forces to bolster the sport.
"If authorities can empower and nurture Muay Thai across various aspects, including talent scouting, training, and incentives, I believe we can become a dominant force on the global Muay Thai stage," he added.
