BANGKOK: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas presented Muay Thai as an expression of Thai identity and a means of connecting cultures during the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group in Bangkok on Oct 15, 2026.
Ekniti watched the Muay Thai showcase alongside Bank of Thailand Governor Vitai Ratanakorn, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and government representatives.
In his closing remarks at the showcase, Ekniti described Muay Thai as more than a sport, emphasising its significance as a martial art reflecting Thai society’s values of courage, perseverance, discipline, respect and humility.
Ekniti drew particular attention to wai khru, the tradition of paying respect to teachers. He explained that the ritual expresses gratitude and honours those who transmit knowledge from one generation to the next, demonstrating that strength can coexist with humility.
Ekniti also linked Muay Thai to Thailand’s theme for the meetings, “Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience”. He highlighted the martial art’s role in developing people’s capabilities, discipline, confidence and adaptability to overcome challenges.
Through sport and friendship, Ekniti said, Muay Thai could bring people from different cultural backgrounds together. He expressed hope that the event would allow participants to experience Thai culture, traditions and hospitality while strengthening relationships and cooperation between countries. - The Nation/ANN
