Tourism and Sports Minister Suwong Thienthong presided over the 17th World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony on March 17 at Wat Mahathat in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park.
The annual event drew Muay Thai fighters from across the globe to the UNESCO World Heritage site, cementing Thailand’s effort to promote the combat sport as a key cultural export and tourism driver.
Minister Suwong was joined by Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Deputy Governor Praphan Tribubpha, along with tourism officials, embassy representatives, and Muay Thai practitioners for the evening ceremony.
“The World Wai Kru Muay Thai Ceremony integrates arts, culture, and sports into one, while promoting Thailand’s Soft Power through the globally recognized identity of Muay Thai,” Suwong said. “This form of experiential tourism attracts both tourists and athletes from around the world.”
The event showcased the traditional pre-fight ritual that pays respect to teachers, mentors, and sacred entities. Beyond its ceremonial significance, the Wai Kru dance varies between gyms and serves practical purposes for fighters before combat.
Tourism officials highlighted the economic benefits of the cultural showcase, noting that Muay Thai-related tourism extends visitor stays and generates revenue throughout Thailand’s hospitality sector.
“I would like to thank all sectors supporting this event, especially both Thai and international Muay Thai fighters, who play a key role in showcasing Muay Thai to the world,” Suwong said. “I sincerely hope that the art of Muay Thai will continue to be preserved and developed sustainably.”
The ceremony’s location at Ayutthaya, Thailand’s former capital, added historical gravity to the proceedings. Officials confirmed the event aligns with the Ministry’s ongoing initiative to advance “Muay Thai on the Global Stage.”
With practitioners from dozens of countries in attendance, the ceremony highlighted Muay Thai’s growing international footprint as both a competitive sport and a cultural practice worthy of preservation.