PNG Kickboxing Federation appreciates Prime Minister’s recognition of its Development Pathways

Former retired World Champion and President of the Papua New Guinea Kickboxing  Federation (PNGKBF), Chief Stanley Nandex, has expressed great satisfaction following the Prime Minister’s recent recognition of the federation’s potential.

Nandex highlighted how discipline and values of the sport could be maximized for mindset transformation across the nation.

Responding to the Prime Minister’s comments, Nandex elaborated that martial arts and combat sports teach crucial life skills, including discipline, leadership, and character building, while promoting self-control, respect, humility, and a strong sense of national pride.

"I have studied different styles of martial arts — from Taekwondo, Karate, and Kung Fu to Ju-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Kickboxing," Nandex said. 

"I have seen the profound positive impact it has had on my own life, and I am now privileged to share these benefits with thousands of young people, both in PNG and abroad." 

He mentioned that PNG had a long history in martial arts back in the 60s, but kept a low profile, naming Master Jamuga Stone and Sifu Benard Fong as the only surviving martial artists.

In comparison, Nandex began his career in the early 1980s under the mentorship of the late Master Terry Han and was ranked as fourth Dan Degree Black Belt Holder before becoming a kickboxer. 

The PNGKBF currently plays a major role in transforming youth across 18 provinces, boasting an active membership of over 6,000 participants. Nandex noted that 80 percent of these members come from settlements and challenging backgrounds with limited access to formal education. Despite these hurdles, many have achieved remarkable success.

Since retiring from professional fighting in 2009, Nandex has successfully groomed an impressive roster of elite athletes:

• 5x World Champions 

• 2x Intercontinental Champions 

• 1x Continental Champion 

• 5x International Champions 

• 4x South Pacific Champions

"These are champions we have already produced. They are disciplined, proven leaders, and they stand ready to be utilized by the country,” he said.

Nandex welcomed potential government interventions to propel the sport further, suggesting that the PNGKBF's programs could be integrated into the training regimen of the country's discipline forces, including the PNG Defence Force, Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, and Correctional Services (CIS).

"In countries like Japan, Korea, China, Thailand, Vietnam, the United States, and other developed countries, martial arts are a foundational element of military training," Nandex explained. 

"These nations successfully merge the internal discipline of martial arts with military orders and principles."

Furthermore, Nandex is advocating for martial arts to be introduced into the national school curriculum, spanning from primary to tertiary institutions.

"Discipline is a major hurdle currently hindering our national progress and development,” the Headhunter said. 

“We are struggling with basic common sense. Introducing martial arts to our students isn't just about self-defense or competition; it's about teaching them the true philosophy, methods, and the true essence of deep personal discipline."