The two-day Muaythai Masterclass was organized as the main activity of the project on 20 - 21 August 2026 at the Kazakh National University of Sports (KNUS) in Astana. The Masterclass featured internationally renowned Muaythai fighters, namely Buakaw Banchamek, widely recognized as an “Ambassador of Muaythai,” Nuenglanlek Jitmuangnon, and Marie Ruumet, who shared their Muaythai skills, techniques, and experiences with Kazakh youth, athletes, and members of the public. The two-day event was well attended by more than 700 participants, clearly reflecting the popularity and potential of Muaythai in Kazakhstan. At the opening ceremony on 20 August 2026, high-level representatives of Thailand and Kazakhstan, namely H.E. Mrs. Piyapin Niyomrerks, Ambassador of Thailand to Kazakhstan; H.E. Mr. Alibek Kuantyrov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan; H.E. Mr. Serik Zharasbayev, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan; and Ms. Tursynzada Kuangaliyeva, Rector of KNUS, jointly presided over the opening ceremony.

                      On this occasion, Ambassador Piyapin highlighted the objectives of the project, which, in addition to promoting Muaythai as a sport, martial art, and an integral part of Thailand’s cultural heritage, also marked another important milestone in strengthening cultural and sports cooperation between Thailand and Kazakhstan. Muaythai represents one of Thailand’s important Soft Power assets that has long served as a strong bond connecting the peoples of the two countries. The Ambassador expressed her confidence that the activity would further expand bilateral cooperation into the areas of tourism and economic relations. The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan commended the Royal Thai Embassy in Astana for organizing the event, describing it as an effective initiative in promoting cultural and sports diplomacy. They also emphasized that the Masterclass provided a valuable opportunity for Kazakh youth to interact directly with Thailand’s legendary Muaythai fighters, inspiring them to further develop their skills and strive for excellence in sports.

                      Throughout the two-day Muaythai Masterclass, participants engaged in both theoretical and practical training. They learned about the history and origins of Muaythai, as well as basic and advanced Muaythai techniques directly from Buakaw Banchamek, Nuenglanlek Jitmuangnon, Marie Ruumet, and professional Muaythai trainers participating in the event. Participants also had the opportunity to enjoy a Muay Boran performance and learn about the Wai Kru Muaythai tradition, enabling them to experience Muaythai both as a sport and as an important element of Thailand’s cultural heritage. In addition, a Superstar Meet & Greet provided Kazakh youth, athletes, and members of the public with an opportunity to meet and take photographs with the three champions in a friendly and engaging atmosphere. The activity received considerable interest and enthusiasm from the participants.