KUCHING – The 7th Sarawak Tang Soo Do Championship 2026 concluded in Kuching with strong recognition of the sport’s role in shaping discipline, unity and youth development across the state. The two-day event, held at the 7th Mile Chamber of Commerce Hall in Kota Sentosa, brought together more than 200 practitioners from six divisions, reflecting the growing popularity of Tang Soo Do in Sarawak.
Officiating at the closing ceremony, Batu Lintang assemblyman YB See Chee How emphasised that Sarawak is entering a period of rapid transformation and requires young talents who embody teamwork, resilience and positive values. He encouraged athletes to continue refining their skills and to represent Sarawak with pride at the upcoming National Tang Soo Do Championships of Malaysia.
See highlighted the inclusive nature of martial arts, noting that Tang Soo Do transcends cultural and social boundaries. He described it as a discipline that fosters mutual respect and friendship, aligning with the vision of a united Sarawak. “Martial arts and sports know no boundaries, bridging divides and bringing people together,” he said, underscoring the role of Tang Soo Do in promoting harmony.
The championship, organised by The Sarawak Samarahan Tang Soo Do Association, featured competitions across age and skill categories. It served not only as a showcase of progress but also as a platform to identify promising athletes for national-level representation. The event demonstrated the sport’s expanding reach and influence, with participants from Kuching, Samarahan, Miri, Sibu, Sarikei and Bintulu.
See also praised the association for its contributions since its establishment in 2016. Over the past decade, the non-profit organisation has trained more than 8,000 practitioners, with around 30 per cent from Bumiputera communities. Tang Soo Do was first introduced to Sarawak in 1972 and gained popularity among uniformed services in the following decades. Today, tens of thousands across the state have trained in the discipline, with Bumiputera practitioners making up about 40 per cent of the total.
He commended the voluntary dedication of coaches and instructors, noting their role in nurturing practitioners both in skill and character. “The dedication of the coaching team is evident to all. Through their guidance, practitioners advance in mindset and technique, achieving personal growth,” he said.
Tang Soo Do’s philosophy, See explained, extends beyond combat and self-defence. It emphasises the cultivation of virtue, respect and perseverance. He cited one of its guiding principles: “Compete against yourself, not against others,” stressing that the true measure of success lies in overcoming personal limits and achieving harmony between mind and body.
The assemblyman noted that many young practitioners have transformed themselves through the values instilled by Tang Soo Do, becoming more disciplined and resilient. He expressed hope that the sport would continue to attract youth from diverse backgrounds, nurturing a new generation of Sarawakians who are both physically strong and morally grounded.
The Samarahan Tang Soo Do Association has earned a reputation for promoting healthy living and guiding young people through martial arts values. Its efforts have contributed to community development, encouraging cross-cultural exchange and friendship. The association’s 10th anniversary this year marks a significant milestone in its mission to inspire and empower Sarawak’s youth.
See concluded by urging athletes to view the championship as a starting point for greater achievements. He encouraged them to carry forward the lessons of discipline and perseverance into everyday life. “Through consistent training, practitioners internalise values that last far longer than any single win or loss. These virtues will stand you in good stead to meet every challenge life brings,” he said.
The 7th Sarawak Tang Soo Do Championship 2026 not only celebrated sporting excellence but also reinforced the role of martial arts in building unity and character across Sarawak. As the state looks ahead to national competitions, the event has set a strong foundation for future success and continued growth of Tang Soo Do in the region.
