Thailand's Minister Warns IFMA: "No One Can Monopolize Muay Thai"

The Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports, Surasak Phancharoenworakul, known as "P’ Ae," has issued a statement regarding the role of the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA), asserting that no organization can claim exclusive control over the sport.

According to a report published in the Thai press, the minister emphasized that Muay Thai is a martial art and combat sport that represents Thailand's cultural and sporting heritage, and cannot be monopolized by any entity.

This statement comes amid discussions involving the IFMA and its attempts to gain recognition as the primary authority responsible for the international regulation of Muay Thai.

Minister States Muay Thai Belongs to the Thai People

In his remarks, Surasak Phancharoenworakul delivered a clear message about the identity and cultural significance of the sport.

"No one can monopolize Muay Thai. Muay Thai is a martial art and combat sport that belongs to the heritage of all Thais," the minister stated, according to the report.

This declaration reinforces the Thai government's position that the development of Muay Thai should not be subordinated to a single organization.

For the minister, the sport has cultural, sporting, and economic dimensions that transcend the administrative structures of international federations.

The government considers it essential to preserve the opportunity for different organizations to engage in activities aimed at promoting and growing Muay Thai.

Government Questions IFMA's Claim of Exclusive Authority

According to the report, the controversy intensified after the IFMA sent correspondence to sports organizations in Thailand and other countries.

The government's position indicates that these communications have led to interpretations suggesting that the IFMA is the only entity with authority to manage Muay Thai globally.

The minister stated that this situation has raised concerns within the Muay Thai community, especially since the sport has various segments and organizations responsible for its development.

The Thai government believes it is necessary to clarify the legal competencies of the involved institutions to prevent misinterpretations that could harm the work of independent professionals and entities.

In this context, Surasak highlighted that Thai legislation designates the Office of the Boxing Committee, linked to the Sports Authority of Thailand, as the body responsible for promoting and regulating the sport in the country.

According to the minister's position, the legislation does not recognize any monopoly over Muay Thai by another organization.

Amateur and Professional Muay Thai Have Different Structures

Another point addressed in the report is the distinction between amateur and professional Muay Thai.

The Thai government emphasizes that, although both branches share the same origin, there are significant differences in their regulations, objectives, and competition formats.

Amateur Muay Thai, associated with the Olympic Movement, has specific rules and uses certain protective equipment.

In contrast, professional Muay Thai is part of a sports and entertainment industry, with its own organizational models, commercial rights, and competitions.

According to the minister, these differences must be respected to ensure that the development of the sport is not hindered by administrative conflicts.

The report highlights that professional Muay Thai is recognized within Thai sports legislation and is part of its own regulatory structure.

Thai Government Advocates for Open Competitions and Participation of Different Organizations

In addition to clarifying the competencies of sports entities, the minister reaffirmed that the Thai government supports the participation of various organizations in the international development of Muay Thai.

According to the report, the official position favors the holding of competitions and promotional activities for the sport, provided that applicable rules and legislation are respected.

The government also expresses its willingness to support the IFMA's efforts in developing Olympic Muay Thai, within the federation's responsibilities.

However, it emphasizes that the IFMA should refrain from interfering in professional and cultural activities conducted by other organizations.

The Thai stance is that different entities can work simultaneously to promote the sport without any one of them claiming absolute authority over the others.

Minister Reinforces Importance of Equality and Transparency

In concluding his statement, Surasak Phancharoenworakul stressed that Muay Thai should continue to be developed internationally through cooperation among the various sectors involved.

The minister advocated for principles of equality, transparency, and respect for the competencies of each organization.

According to the report, the Thai government remains open to collaboration with entities aimed at promoting the sport and expanding its international recognition.

"No one can monopolize Muay Thai. We are ready to work with all sectors based on equality and transparency, without monopolies, to bring the potential of Muay Thai to audiences worldwide," Surasak stated, as reported.

This statement reinforces the importance of Muay Thai as a Thai cultural heritage and as a sport that continues to grow internationally through various organizations, professionals, and initiatives.

For the Thai government, strengthening Muay Thai depends on the participation of all those who legitimately work to promote this martial art and combat sport.

Source: Thai report on statements by Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, made by the website DailyNews.