The ITF proudly congratulates Dato’ Grand Master Najmi Abdullah, Founder and President of the Malaysian Taekwon-Do Federation (MTF), on being conferred the esteemed Dato’ Paduka Mahkota Terengganu (D.P.M.T.) Order of Chivalry.
Bestowed by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Terengganu in conjunction with his 64th Birthday Celebration, this royal state honour carries the revered title of Dato’, a recognition functioning similarly to a knighthood in other countries. This milestone represents a historic moment not only for Dato’ Grand Master Najmi but for the global martial arts community, reflecting the highest level of governmental validation for his lifelong dedication to Taekwon-Do.
A Double Royal Honour for MTF
In addition to Dato’ Grand Master Najmi’s conferment, the Malaysian Taekwon-Do Federation proudly celebrates another significant milestone from the same royal investiture. Dr Hj Nasree bin Najmi was graciously conferred the Darjah Kebesaran Ahli Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin (A.M.Z.) by His Royal Highness the Sultan of Terengganu.
This double recognition highlights the deep-rooted impact, dedication, and esteemed standing of the federation’s leadership across the state and the nation.
A Journey Forged in Discipline
Dato’ Grand Master Najmi’s Taekwon-Do journey began in 1969 as a fascinated 10-year-old. Earning his first Black Belt in 1971 under the guidance of Pioneer Grand Master Young Ku Yun, he embarked on a path that would eventually lead him to teach thousands of students across Malaysia and internationally, including in India, Jordan, and Egypt.
His unwavering commitment culminated on May 20, 2024, when he was promoted to the highest rank of 9th Degree Black Belt, symbolising technical mastery, leadership, and a lifetime of service to the art.
Beyond the dojang, Dato’ Grand Master Najmi has been a cornerstone of Taekwon-Do on the international and continental stages. His extraordinary leadership legacy includes:
- Historic Milestones: Playing a central role in bringing the 9th ITF World Taekwon-Do Championship to Terengganu, Malaysia, in 1994, working alongside ITF Founder General Choi Hong Hi.
- National Leadership: Spearheading the official recognition of the Malaysian Taekwon-Do Federation as the national body representing ITF Taekwon-Do in 2020.
- Continental Development: Making immense contributions to the growth of Taekwon-Do across Asia, including his active, pivotal role within the continental federation’s Asia Development Team.
- Global Competition: Inspiring and guiding Malaysian athletes as head coach and delegation leader across numerous World Cups and Championships spanning Hungary, Ireland, Australia, Germany, Slovenia, Finland, Argentina, and Croatia.
A Legacy of Recognition
Throughout his five-decade career, his dedication has been acknowledged with numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Service Medal (DSM) awarded by General Choi Hong Hi, the Outstanding Instructor Medal (OIM) awarded by GM Sabree Salleh, and multiple state and national honours, including the PJK, PPN, AMT, and SMT.
The ITF family celebrates these monumental achievements. From a 10-year-old boy training in secret to a 9th Degree Grand Master holding one of Malaysia’s highest honours, his story is a testament to perseverance, and it’s still being written.
Report IIC196 – Bedford, England
