Group photograph commemorating the establishment of the Singapore National Pugilistic Federation, and the inauguration of the first batch of committee members

This group photograph commemorates the establishment of the Singapore National Pugilistic Federation (全国国术总会), and the inauguration of the first batch of committee members on 3 December 1967. The national body had 24 pugilistic organisations as founding members, including Sao Hua San Athletic Association (少华山国术健身社), Mun Nam Pugilistic Study Association (閩南国术研究社) and Yuen Kiew Physical Association (榕侨体育会).The formation of the National Pugilistic Federation marked a significant milestone in Singapore's Chinese martial arts history as it fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among the various pugilistic associations, which had previously been segregated by clans and sects. It also provided a platform for knowledge exchange for practitioners to refine their skills and techniques, and served as a vital player in the arena of sports diplomacy in Southeast Asia in the late 1960s to 70s, by co-organising the first Southeast Asia Pugilistic Invitation Championship in 1969 with the People's Association. Featured in this image are the organisation’s first President, then Defence Minister Lim Kim San (C), and Honorary President, then Deputy Prime Minister Toh Chin Chye (seated, 9th L).

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