Koh samui: Pimol Srivikorn, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Driving the Sports Industry, expressed satisfaction during his visit to the Muay Thai camps on Koh Samui, Surat Thani Province, noting the positive reception from foreigners eager to learn the traditional Thai martial art.
According to Thai News Agency, Asst. Prof. Pimol Srivikorn, accompanied by key figures such as Mr. Chalitrat Chantrubeksa, Mr. Somchai Poolsawat, and Mrs. Pronprad Samanmit, among others, visited three prominent Muay Thai camps. This visit was part of the Thai government's initiative to promote Muay Thai as a cultural soft power. The delegation inspected the facilities, starting with the "Punch Shit" camp, which is recognized for its professional standards and attracts a significant number of both Thai and foreign boxers daily.
Pimol highlighted the success of the Punch Shit Muay Thai camp in drawing tourists who seek to immerse themselves in Muay Thai culture. With 120-150 foreign students per day and over 80 rooms consistently occupied, the camp serves as a model for other establishments. The camp offers individual and group classes, with group sessions priced at 1,000 baht per hour. The committee awarded certificates to camps meeting national soft power standards in sports, tourism, and culture.
Pimol also announced the upcoming 'Samui Super Fight' competition on July 19th, featuring boxers trained under a rehabilitation project for prisoners. This initiative aims to equip former inmates with skills to reintegrate into society, thereby reducing recidivism. Pimol emphasized the importance of providing opportunities through skill-building, aligning with the soft power strategy to enhance Thailand's global economic, tourism, and cultural presence.
The delegation also visited the Super Pro Muay Thai and Yodyut Muay Thai camps, both up to professional standards. Yodyut Kiatyongyuth, owner of Yodyut Muay Thai Camp, shared that his gym attracts 40-50 foreigners daily, generating substantial monthly income. He expressed gratitude to the government for promoting Muay Thai as a soft power, increasing global interest in the sport.