KUCHING: Muhammad Johan Ghazali Zulfikar, the nation’s Muay Thai sensation, will not represent the Sarawak contingent at the 21st Malaysia Games (SUKMA) this August, according to a report by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
The President of the Sarawak Muay Thai Association (PMNS), Jumaat Ibrahim, explained that this is because the popular athlete, also known as ‘Jojo,’ is under contract with ONE Championship.
“PMNS has been informed by Kelab Rentap that Jojo will not be part of SUKMA 2024 in Sarawak due to his contract with ONE Championship,” said Jumaat Ibrahim.
“However, the decision ultimately lies with Jojo. We cannot force him because he has his contract. We would like him to be with Sarawak, but his agreement is with their club,” he told reporters during the PMNS Media Iftar event at a hotel in Kuching last Wednesday.
It’s worth noting that 18-year-old Jojo, along with his brother Muhammad Elias Zulfikar, won two gold medals for the Sarawak contingent at SUKMA 2022 in Kuala Lumpur.
Nevertheless, Jumaat remains confident that Jojo’s absence will not hinder their mission to secure at least two gold medals at this year’s SUKMA. He expressed hope for the new athletes who will be fielded and mentioned that the final list of Muay Thai athletes representing Sarawak will be determined after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.
Jumaat also stated that these athletes will be assessed through various championships, with the closest one being the Sarawak Premier Muay Thai Championship scheduled from May 24 to 26 at NAIM Bintulu Paragon, which will also serve as the venue for the Muay Thai event at SUKMA.
To further enhance the athletes’ skills and preparation, Jumaat revealed plans to bring selected athletes for sparring in several local and international championships.
When asked about the development of Muay Thai sports in Sarawak, Jumaat expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Sarawak Entrepreneur Development, Sarawak Sports Corporation, and Sarawak State Sports Council for their support in implementing the development programs initiated by PMNS.
