Government to plug Muay Thai
PRIME MINISTER PRAYUT CHANo-cha has confirmed plans to promote Thailand’s soft power through Muay Thai.
Gen Tunwakom Tipayajan, an adviser to the Culture Ministry and president of the World Muay Thai Alliance Association, met Prayut on Jan 11 to ask to help add value and promote Muay Thai among young people and further develop its reputation as a world-class martial art.
Gen Tunwakom said Muay Thai can generate income for Thailand as many people overseas are interested in it, adding the government should have a platform offering information and services such as Muay Thai schools, contests, books and equipment.
He also proposed the government introduce Muay Thai curricula in all schools and organise regular events to promote the martial art and to boost the domestic economy. The plan requires cooperation from various parties including the tourism and sports, culture, commerce, foreign and labour ministries, he said.