Latest news with #IFMA
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- Gulf Today
Abu Dhabi to host 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship in September
For the first time in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship from the 10th to the 20th of September 2025, at Space 42 Arena in Al Raha Beach, a landmark step that further solidifies the UAE's global standing in hosting world-class sporting events. The official announcement was made during a joint press event by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, following the signing of the official hosting agreement at Space 42 Arena. The agreement was signed by Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, and Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation and Secretary-General of the Arab Muay Thai Federation. Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, President of the Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations and President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, stated: 'Abu Dhabi's hosting of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship reflects the prestigious standing the UAE has attained globally in organizing major international sports events, thanks to the visionary leadership and boundless support of the wise leadership.' He affirmed that this global event is a continuation of the UAE's achievements across all fields, including sports, which enjoys generous support and exceptional care from the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Their roles have advanced the UAE's sporting journey to unprecedented international achievements. He added: 'We continue to work under a clear strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as a global capital for combat sports and enhance the UAE's presence on the international sports map by hosting championships that meet the highest organizational and technical standards.' He concluded: 'We are committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship that honors the UAE's name and meets the aspirations of our wise leadership and the youth of the nation. Through this event, we also aim to expand the reach of Muay Thai across the Arab world, Asia, and globally from the UAE.' Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, said: 'I am honored to be here in Abu Dhabi at Space 42 Arena, an exceptional sports venue, to finalize the agreement for the largest Youth World Muay Thai Championship in history. We have full confidence in the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation to deliver an outstanding tournament. Abu Dhabi has continually set new benchmarks in hosting major events, and this will be no exception.' 'This championship is expected to attract over 100 national teams and 1,500 young athletes from various age groups. The trust placed in Abu Dhabi by the global Muay Thai community is a testament to the UAE's credibility, hospitality, and top-tier facilities. Families worldwide are confident in sending their children to this edition of the championship.' 'I extend heartfelt thanks to Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi for this historic opportunity to inspire the next generation of Muay Thai athletes. Hosting the event at Space 42 Arena, one of the finest venues globally, ensures the championship will meet the highest international standards.' 'We know that the event is strongly supported by the global Muay Thai community as well as UAE government institutions. We are proud of the successful and fruitful partnership with the UAE Federation, which has organized multiple world-class, continental, and regional events to the highest standard.' Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi added: 'The UAE Federation has completed the hosting agreement with IFMA as part of its ongoing development strategies under the leadership of His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi. We highly value the IFMA family's vote of confidence and the international trust placed in the UAE, which reflects the country's esteemed reputation and the Federation's proven organizational record in hosting acclaimed Asian and world championships.' 'The championship will be held at Space 42 Arena, a premier sports facility, and will welcome 1,500 athletes across all age groups. It is being organized in cooperation with IFMA to expand the sport's footprint in the Arab world.' 'We also thank Stephen Fox for attending the ceremony, and we wish all the participating teams success in the tournament, especially our national team. Preparations confirm that Abu Dhabi is ready to host this prestigious global event.'
Observer
3 days ago
- Business
- Observer
Procurement and facilities management: Strategic tools for institutional efficiency
MUSCAT: Efficient procurement and facilities management are no longer auxiliary functions within institutions — they have become pivotal enablers of operational sustainability, cost optimisation, and service excellence. This message was at the heart of a recent conversation with Rashid al Masrouri, a prominent Omani expert in the field, whose professional insights shed light on the evolving role of institutional infrastructure management in Oman's public and private sectors. Al Masrouri, who has led transformative initiatives in facilities and procurement operations, argues that a new mindset is urgently needed: 'Facilities management is the invisible hand that keeps institutions functioning. Procurement, meanwhile, is the economic artery that ensures continuity and value.' According to him, when both functions are aligned and managed strategically, institutions unlock real, measurable performance gains. He pointed out that despite growing awareness, key challenges persist. Among them: outdated perceptions of the role of support services, fragmented processes between operations and procurement units, a lag in digital integration, and a shortage of professionally trained local talent. 'Too often, these departments are seen as administrative overheads,' he noted, 'when in fact they are central to long-term institutional sustainability.' Al Masrouri emphasised that Oman is equipped with the infrastructure and ambition to modernise these domains — but success depends on shifting organisational cultures. 'Digital tools like CAFM (Computer-Aided Facility Management) and ERP systems are only effective when embedded within a forward-looking governance model that empowers decision-makers on the ground.' On the procurement front, he outlined three essential priorities for modernisation: • Full automation of workflows to ensure transparency and reduce delays, • Clear policies for fair competition and value-for-money contracting, • A national supplier database that tracks performance and supports strategic sourcing. He also stressed the need for performance-based contracts and cost–benefit analyses to become standard practices in both public and private entities. 'The system should reward results, not just compliance,' he added. As for Omani talent, Al Masrouri is confident in the capabilities of the next generation but called for more applied training, international certification pathways (such as CIPS and IFMA), and clear professional tracks for career progression. 'This is a sector where hands-on problem-solving is just as important as academic qualifications.' He concluded with a call to action: 'Leaders in both government and private institutions must revisit how they perceive these functions. Investing in procurement and facilities management is not an expense — it is an investment in operational resilience, public value, and national development.' As Oman advances its Vision 2040 priorities, institutional effectiveness and sustainability will remain high on the national agenda. And as experts like Al Masrouri remind us, strategic efficiency often begins with the functions we least see — but most depend on.
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi to host Youth World Muay Thai Championship for first time in Middle East
For the first time in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship from September 10 to 20, 2025, at Space 42 Arena in Al Raha Beach, a landmark step that further solidifies the UAE's global standing in hosting world-class sporting events. The official announcement was made during a joint press event by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, following the signing of the official hosting agreement at Space 42 Arena. The agreement was signed by Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, and Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation and Secretary-General of the Arab Muay Thai Federation. Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, President of the Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations and President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, stated, "Abu Dhabi's hosting of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship reflects the prestigious standing the UAE has attained globally in organising major international sports events, thanks to the visionary leadership and boundless support of the wise leadership.' He affirmed that this global event is a continuation of the UAE's achievements across all fields, including sports, which enjoys generous support and exceptional care from the wise leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Their roles have advanced the UAE's sporting journey to unprecedented international achievements. He added, "We continue to work under a clear strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as a global capital for combat sports and enhance the UAE's presence on the international sports map by hosting championships that meet the highest organizational and technical standards.' He concluded, "We are committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship that honors the UAE's name and meets the aspirations of our wise leadership and the youth of the nation. Through this event, we also aim to expand the reach of Muay Thai across the Arab world, Asia, and globally from the UAE.' Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, said, "I am honoured to be here in Abu Dhabi at Space 42 Arena, an exceptional sports venue, to finalize the agreement for the largest Youth World Muay Thai Championship in history. We have full confidence in the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation to deliver an outstanding tournament. Abu Dhabi has continually set new benchmarks in hosting major events, and this will be no exception.' 'This championship is expected to attract over 100 national teams and 1,500 young athletes from various age groups. The trust placed in Abu Dhabi by the global Muay Thai community is a testament to the UAE's credibility, hospitality, and top-tier facilities. Families worldwide are confident in sending their children to this edition of the championship.' 'I extend heartfelt thanks to Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi for this historic opportunity to inspire the next generation of Muay Thai athletes. Hosting the event at Space 42 Arena, one of the finest venues globally, ensures the championship will meet the highest international standards.' 'We know that the event is strongly supported by the global Muay Thai community as well as UAE government institutions. We are proud of the successful and fruitful partnership with the UAE Federation, which has organized multiple world-class, continental, and regional events to the highest standard.' Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi added, 'The UAE Federation has completed the hosting agreement with IFMA as part of its ongoing development strategies under the leadership of Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi. We highly value the IFMA family's vote of confidence and the international trust placed in the UAE, which reflects the country's esteemed reputation and the Federation's proven organizational record in hosting acclaimed Asian and world championships.' 'The championship will be held at Space 42 Arena, a premier sports facility, and will welcome 1,500 athletes across all age groups. It is being organized in cooperation with IFMA to expand the sport's footprint in the Arab world.' 'We also thank Stephen Fox for attending the ceremony, and we wish all the participating teams success in the tournament, especially our national team. Preparations confirm that Abu Dhabi is ready to host this prestigious global event.'
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Sport
- Al Etihad
For first time in Middle East, Abu Dhabi to host 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship
19 July 2025 16:22 ABU DHABI (WAM)For the first time in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship from the September 10-20, 2025, at Space 42 Arena in Al Raha Beach, a landmark step that further solidifies the UAE's global standing in hosting world-class sporting official announcement was made during a joint press event by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, following the signing of the official hosting agreement at Space 42 agreement was signed by Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, and Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation and Secretary-General of the Arab Muay Thai Saeed Al Neyadi, President of the Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations and President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, stated:'Abu Dhabi's hosting of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship reflects the prestigious standing the UAE has attained globally in organising major international sports events, thanks to the visionary leadership and boundless support of the wise leadership.'He affirmed that this global event is a continuation of the UAE's achievements across all fields, including sports, which enjoys generous support and exceptional care from the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Their roles have advanced the UAE's sporting journey to unprecedented international added: 'We continue to work under a clear strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as a global capital for combat sports and enhance the UAE's presence on the international sports map by hosting championships that meet the highest organizational and technical standards.'He concluded: 'We are committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship that honors the UAE's name and meets the aspirations of our wise leadership and the youth of the nation. Through this event, we also aim to expand the reach of Muay Thai across the Arab world, Asia, and globally from the UAE.'Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, said:'I am honoured to be here in Abu Dhabi at Space 42 Arena, an exceptional sports venue, to finalize the agreement for the largest Youth World Muay Thai Championship in history. We have full confidence in the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation to deliver an outstanding tournament. Abu Dhabi has continually set new benchmarks in hosting major events, and this will be no exception.''This championship is expected to attract over 100 national teams and 1,500 young athletes from various age groups. The trust placed in Abu Dhabi by the global Muay Thai community is a testament to the UAE's credibility, hospitality, and top-tier facilities. Families worldwide are confident in sending their children to this edition of the championship.''I extend heartfelt thanks to His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi for this historic opportunity to inspire the next generation of Muay Thai athletes. Hosting the event at Space 42 Arena, one of the finest venues globally, ensures the championship will meet the highest international standards.''We know that the event is strongly supported by the global Muay Thai community as well as UAE government institutions. We are proud of the successful and fruitful partnership with the UAE Federation, which has organized multiple world-class, continental, and regional events to the highest standard.' Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi added:'The UAE Federation has completed the hosting agreement with IFMA as part of its ongoing development strategies under the leadership of His Excellency Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi. We highly value the IFMA family's vote of confidence and the international trust placed in the UAE, which reflects the country's esteemed reputation and the Federation's proven organizational record in hosting acclaimed Asian and world championships. 'The championship will be held at Space 42 Arena, a premier sports facility, and will welcome 1,500 athletes across all age groups. It is being organized in cooperation with IFMA to expand the sport's footprint in the Arab world. 'We also thank Stephen Fox for attending the ceremony, and we wish all the participating teams success in the tournament, especially our national team. Preparations confirm that Abu Dhabi is ready to host this prestigious global event.
Sinar Daily
12-07-2025
- Sport
- Sinar Daily
From pianist to warrior: Angie brings glory to Malaysia on Muay Thai global stage
Formerly a pianist, the young lass, who developed an interest in Muay Thai seven years ago, also bagged a gold medal in the female Wai Kru solo category at the IFMA Asian Championships in Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam this year. 12 Jul 2025 06:00pm Angie is a three-time gold medallist in the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) Senior World Championship Under-23 (U-23) division, winning in 2023 (Thailand), 2024 (Greece) and 2025 (Türkiye). - Photo source: Muaythai Malaysia KOTA KINABALU - Yan Jia Chi, better known as Angie, has become a precious gem for Malaysia on the Muay Thai global stage after earning multiple gold medals and international honours. Angie, 21, a 'Sumandak' (young girl in Kadazandusun language), is a three-time gold medallist in the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) Senior World Championship Under-23 (U-23) division, winning in 2023 (Thailand), 2024 (Greece) and 2025 (Türkiye). Angie's first competition was the Karnival Pelapis Kebangsaan Sukan Muaythai meet in Kuala Lumpur in 2019. - Photo source: Muaythai Malaysia Formerly a pianist, the young lass, who developed an interest in Muay Thai seven years ago, also bagged a gold medal in the female Wai Kru solo category at the IFMA Asian Championships in Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam this year. Angie, born in Johor to a Sabahan mother and a Johorean father, has represented Malaysia in showcasing the sport during the 2024 Paris Olympics, contributing to global promotion efforts. Angie also made her mark in the Malaysia Games (Sukma) where in 2022 in Kuala Lumpur she won gold, marking a historic win as this was the first time the event was included in the Games, and she also won gold in the Sukma last year in Sarawak. Sharing with Bernama, Angie recalled her first encounter with Muay Thai occurred when she accompanied and watched her friend training at a gym in Kota Kinabalu here, where she found the sport fascinating. "At first I was actually a pianist. I spent years learning and practicing piano until one day I followed my friend. I didn't train, just sat and watched, but when I saw how interesting it was, I decided to try my first class in Muay Thai," she said, adding that she truly enjoyed it and wanted to improve. "That's how my journey began. From then on, I just kept going. Right now at university, I follow a simple routine - go to class and train in the afternoon," said Angie, who is currently continuing her studies at Tourism and Recreation University in Thailand. The oldest of three siblings, born in Johor but raised in Sabah, Angie explained that when preparing for tournaments, she trains around four to six hours daily in two sessions - morning and evening. While studying, however, she trains only in the afternoon after classes for two and a half hours. Her first competition was the Karnival Pelapis Kebangsaan Sukan Muaythai meet in Kuala Lumpur in 2019. Reflecting on her journey as a fighter, Angie shared a bitter memory from 2023 when both her knees were badly injured and swollen for an extended period and despite needing rest, she couldn't recover properly due to back-to-back competitions. "I couldn't stop training even though my body really needed the break. Physically, the challenge is dealing with training, injuries, soreness, and muscle pain, especially during intense training periods. "Mentally, it's sometimes hard to stay motivated. I try to push myself to perform at my best every time and often find myself comparing my progress to others. There are days when I'm tired, doubting myself, or feeling like I'm not improving fast enough," she said, adding that she began training in Thailand in 2023. Regarding her diet, Angie emphasised the importance of drinking plenty of water, explaining that she chose to train in Thailand because it is the birthplace of Muay Thai. The training there is intense and traditional. She benefits from learning directly from an experienced Thai coach, and being immersed in the culture among high-level athletes helps her improve more rapidly. "In the future, I plan to keep improving and compete at an even higher level of competition and bring my country's name as well as Sabah to the world stage," she added. - BERNAMA
