The involvement of the community, especially the young, in the sport of self-defence can help produce individuals with a stronger personality and resilience in facing the prevailing challenges.

The Regent of Pahang, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah said the element was also crucial in uniting people in the country regardless of age, race and religion.

"Muai Thai sport is seen to be increasingly popular and those participating in the sport are adopting a healthy lifestyle. Its practitioners must always be patient and imbibe the true philosophy of the sport and become protectors of the weak.

"The sport could unite society in line with the national policy, which is similar to the slogan of the Pahang Muai Thai Association, namely, 'Seek Understanding, Understand Differences'," he said.

Tengku Abdullah said this at the launching of the Pahang Muai Thai Association (PMTP) at the SUKPA Indoor Stadium in Indera Mahkota, here, today.

His speech text was read out by State Youth and Sports Committee chairman, Datuk Mohd Johari Hussain.

-- BERNAMA