Abdulmunem Alhashmi remains at the forefront of Asian Jiu-Jitsu after securing another term as President of the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union (JJAU) during their recent General Assembly meeting. The re-election, held in Abu Dhabi and coinciding with the 8th Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship, saw Alhashmi retain his position by acclamation, a testament to the widespread support for his leadership.
The assembly brought together key figures in the sport, including Panagiotis Theodoropoulos, President of the Ju-Jitsu International Federation (JJIF), and Joachim Thumfart, Director-General of JJIF. Representatives from the Olympic Council of Asia, JJAU Board members, and presidents of National Federations across Asia also participated, showcasing the unified front behind the sport's growth in the region.
Alhashmi's re-election reflects on a period of significant progress for Jiu-Jitsu in Asia. The JJAU has witnessed a surge in participating countries and athletes under his leadership. Initiatives aimed at developing referees and fostering anti-doping efforts have further solidified the sport's foundation.
The General Assembly wasn't solely focused on celebrating past achievements. Discussions revolved around the future trajectory of Jiu-Jitsu in Asia. A key point of emphasis was supporting National Federations and equipping them with the necessary resources to thrive. The upcoming 2024 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games were also a central topic, with plans outlined to ensure Jiu-Jitsu shines on the prestigious multi-sport stage.
The assembly also saw the appointment of other key JJAU positions. Fahad Al Shamsi retained his role as Secretary-General, while Takamasa Watanabe and Tareq Al Bahri were appointed Deputy Secretary-General and Treasurer, respectively. A new Executive Board was established, featuring Reda Monfaradi as the First Vice President alongside five regional Vice Presidents representing Mongolia, Thailand, Iraq, Kazakhstan, and India.
Reacting to his re-election, Alhashmi expressed his gratitude to the JJIF President and JJAU members for their unwavering dedication to Jiu-Jitsu's advancement in Asia. He acknowledged the responsibility entrusted upon him and emphasized the collective commitment to developing the sport, nurturing skilled personnel, and providing unwavering support to Asian Jiu-Jitsu athletes.