The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is introducing Muay Thai as an elective course in 437 schools it runs to preserve the culture and teach young people about discipline.

The boxing classes will be offered as part of the health science and physical education study cluster.

The course aims to attract young students, as part of the BMA’s drive to promote Thailand’s soft power in the sporting field, the BMA said.

The BMA said the benefits of Muay Thai include training youngsters to be disciplined to instilling a sense of sportsmanship.

Certified trainers from various Thai boxing camps in the capital will run the classes, which may be held after school.

“Youngsters will understand the history [of Thai boxing] and learn to value the culture and heritage,” an official said. “It’s a sport that spreads the word about Thailand’s soft power, attracting deep interest from people around the world.”