Talib (centre) and other guests congratulating Kabilan (fourth left) and Zainul.

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BINTULU: Assistant Minister of Tourism Datuk Talib Zulpilip came away impressed after watching the Bintulu Muaythai Championship 2014 at Bintulu Esplanade yesterday.

The final bouts of the three-day event also attracted a good crowd.

The inaugural tournament was organised by Sarawak Muaythai Association (SMA) in collaboration with Bintulu Resident’s Office, Bintulu Development Authority (BDA), Youth and Sports Department and other agencies.

“This sport would give the fighters space to boost their discipline level inside and outside the ring which is needed for genuine athletes,” Talib said at the closing ceremony and later announced a RM10,000 grant for the Sarawak Muaythai Association.

The final fight in the Super 8 (57 kg category) for the challenge trophy was won by Kabilan Javilan of SS Fighters Club who defeated Awangku Zainul Ariffin of PS Muaythai Sebiew.

Kabilan impressed with heavy kicks to the belly and powerful straight punches.

Zainul, who struggled in the first round, tried a gallant comeback in the second round by landing some punches.

Joint third placings went to Md Ariff Mulok (Kenyalang Muaythai Club) and Alydius Aligh (SS Fighters).

A Karadeck Seesombat (SS Fighters Thailand) defeated Mohd Azwan (Terengganu) in the 60kg category, Amir Syazal Shukeri (P Pinang) beat Hunsson Kayan (MTK) in the 50kg category, Suchakorn Etin (Perlis) was knocked out by Shafiq Rushidi (SS Fighters) in the 40-45kg category while Pratasarthee Punniyamoorthy (SS Fighters) overcame Muhd Nur Hakim (Lempong Muaythai Club) for the 35kg bout.

Bintulu Resident Muhamad Yakup Kari was pleased that the tournament attracted over 60 fighters including those from four clubs in Bintulu.

“Muaythai has a potential to be further promoted in Bintulu. This is a good platform for local enthusiasts and we can scout for new talents in Bintulu,” he said.

Also present were SMA president Jumaat Ibrahim, BDA general manager Datu Mohidin Ishak, Bintulu District officer Tuah Suni and Bintulu Muaythai Association president Abang Nurulhadi Abang Zainuddin.

Among the particiapting clubs were PS Muaythai Sebiew, SS Fighters Club, Polycarp Muaythai Club, Jepak Muaythai Club, Kenyalang Muaythai Club, Lundu Muaythai Club, Miri Warrior Muaythai Club.