🖋️ Writer: Latiyf Ridlo
✍️ Editor: Kenzo | Aswinnews.com – Sharp, Accurate, Trusted, and Always Updated
Lombok Barat, NTB – Amid the vibrant celebration of the 8th National Sports Festival (FORNAS VIII) in West Nusa Tenggara, a Southeast Asian martial art stole the spotlight: MuayThai. More than just physical combat, the performance presented by the Traditional Muaythai Association of Indonesia (ASMUTRI) proved that this martial art is a living cultural heritage—rich in meaning, rhythm, and philosophy.
Art in Motion: First Stage at Phoenix Gym
The opening session of FORNAS VIII’s ASMUTRI showcase took place at Phoenix Gym, in the coastal area of Batu Layar, West Lombok, on Monday (July 28, 2025). With the sea as a backdrop, dozens of athletes demonstrated the beauty of traditional MuayThai, often called the “art of eight limbs”, for its use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
But MuayThai is not just strength and speed—it began with Wai Kru Ram Muay, a traditional ritual that symbolizes gratitude, respect for teachers, and inner calm. This balance between power and elegance gives MuayThai its unique identity, far beyond just competitive sport.
ASMUTRI’s Commitment to Elevating Traditional Martial Arts
ASMUTRI’s Chairman, Opniel Untung, T. SE., M.Si, attended the event in person, accompanied by several national board members: Donny Darmawan Ayorbaba, AIFO-P (Vice Chairman II), Irno Budi Kiswoyo, SE., MH (Vice Chairman III), and Ine Sri Rahayu (Secretary of Administration).
In his remarks, Opniel emphasized the importance of consistency and dedication in building ASMUTRI’s reputation both nationally and internationally.
“Becoming an official member of KORMI (Indonesia Recreational Sports Committee) is no easy feat. It requires long and serious efforts. ASMUTRI welcomes anyone who wants to grow with us—as long as they are serious, consistent, and committed to advancing traditional martial arts,” Opniel told the press.
In addition to the performances, ASMUTRI also conducted talent scouting and athlete selection from across regions for structured and professional development.
MuayThai: A Battle of Strategy, Not Just Strength
During the public education session, Opniel explained the seven main fighting styles in MuayThai, each representing a unique philosophy and character:
- Muay Mat – Power punchers focused on strength.
- Muay Khao – Knee specialists in close combat (clinch fighters).
- Muay Sok – Elbow experts in close-range attacks.
- Muay Bouk – Relentless, aggressive fighters.
- Muay Femur – Intelligent and highly technical stylists.
- Muay Tae – Kick-oriented fighters controlling distance.
- Muay Tep – Tactical and strategic warriors.
“Understanding these styles is essential for appreciating MuayThai not only as a physical sport but as an art of intelligence and cultural expression,” he added.
Second Stage: MuayThai Art Exhibition at Mall Epicentrum
Later that afternoon, the second session took place at Mall Epicentrum in Central Lombok. With a more open and interactive format, the performances drew public attention and engaged spectators in the beauty of MuayThai movements.
The showcased categories included:
- Wai Kru (Male & Female)
- Muay Aerobics
- Muay-Muay Gianyar (Female)
- Muay-Muay Papua (Male)
- Stakeholder Challenge
- Sparing Exhibition
- Muay Boran (Traditional style)
ASMUTRI Vice Chairman III, Irno Budi Kiswoyo, SE., MH, extended his appreciation to all participants:
“ASMUTRI continues to elevate traditional MuayThai, adapted to Indonesian cultural values. It’s not just a sport—it’s a symbol of heritage. Our commitment is to improve athlete development and carry Indonesia’s name to the international arena,” he said.
MuayThai for All: From Tradition to the Global Stage
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing the top performers in each category. The energy of both the athletes and the audience highlighted MuayThai’s potential in Indonesia—not just as a traditional sport, but as a living expression of culture and identity.
FORNAS VIII NTB was more than a competition; it became a turning point to revive and promote traditional martial arts within the spirit of modern achievement and cultural preservation.
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