Bangkok: Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister and Minister of Culture of Thailand, has expressed her pleasure over the inclusion of Muay Thai in the 2027 World Military Games. She credited this achievement to the collaborative efforts of the committee promoting the sports soft power industry, the Royal Thai Army, and the Military Sports Promotion Association (Thailand).

According to Thai News Agency, Muay Thai’s inclusion in the World Military Games signifies a major milestone for the sport on the international stage. The World Military Games, orchestrated by the International Military Sports Council, is a prestigious event with 141 member countries participating globally. The recent hosting of the 1st CISM Military Muaythai Challenge in Thailand last July marked a crucial step towards showcasing Muay Thai in international military competitions.

This development is seen as a significant achievement for Thailand, owing to the diligent work of the Subcommittee for the Promotion of the Sports Soft Power Industry, alongside the Royal Thai Army and the Military Sports Promotion Association (Thailand). Their concerted efforts have effectively propelled Muay Thai onto the international sports scene.

With Muay Thai’s official inclusion, military forces worldwide will now be required to train in the discipline to compete in future international competitions. This not only underscores Muay Thai’s potential as a competitive sport but also highlights its role as a formidable soft power influence, encouraging numerous countries to engage with and compete in Muay Thai.

The Thai government remains committed to advancing Thai Soft Power, aiming to bolster the national economy, enhance international reputation, and instill national pride through such initiatives.