HKCR SIGNS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE SOUTHEAST ASIA RUGBY FEDERATION (SEARF)

Hong Kong China Rugby has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation (SEARF), aimed at strengthening cooperation between HKCR and SEARF member unions for the further development of rugby across Asia.

SEARF also signed similar MoUs with other East Asian national unions, including Chinese Taipei Rugby Football Union (CTRFU), Guam Rugby Union (GRU), Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) and Korea Rugby Union (KRU).

The MoU signings took place at the Royal Garden Hotel in London on Thursday 25 September, as representatives from each union arrived in London for Saturday’s Women’s Rugby World Cup Final between hosts England and Canada.

The MoU aims to strengthen cooperation between HKCR and SEARF member unions for the further development of rugby across Asia, with a commitment to:

• Fostering closer cooperation in rugby development
• Sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources to achieve high performance in rugby
• Developing joint initiatives that will raise and sustain the competitive level and growth of rugby in the region

Initiatives will include the exchange and development of referees, coaches, players, and staff across the region. Through these activities, HKCR aims to strengthen cooperative relationships with SEARF member unions and enhance the contribution of rugby in Hong Kong with the promotion and development of rugby throughout Asia.

Commenting at the signing ceremony President of the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation Pol.Lt.Col. Kulthon Prachuabmoh said:

“On behalf of the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation, I am deeply honoured to have this opportunity to address our members and friends. We established our regional federation through the collective commitment of seven founding members: Brunei Rugby Football Union, Persatuan Rugby Union Indonesia, Lao Rugby Federation, Malaysia Rugby Union, Philippine Rugby Football Union, Singapore Rugby Union, and Thai Rugby Union. As stated in our Charter’s Preamble, the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation acknowledges the unifying power of rugby as a tool for promoting healthy competition, community development, and sporting excellence across our region.

“We are truly grateful that our esteemed colleagues have expressed interest in connecting with us through this MOU. I believe that together we will develop rugby with enthusiasm, sincerity, and mutual respect at all times. We will treasure this pivotal moment and remain dedicated to passing the rugby legacy to future generations, ensuring that all may enjoy this wonderful sport.”

Hong Kong China Rugby Chairman, Mr Chris Brooke, added:

“While newly founded, the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation have already shown great ambition and intent to collectively grow rugby in Southeast Asia. Their effort will be bolstered and supported by this week’s MoUs, not only with HKCR, but also with our regional neighbour unions who have made similar commitments this week.

“On behalf of the Hong Kong China Rugby, it was a privilege to have been part of Thursday’s signing ceremony, as well as to have the chance to connect with members of this new partnership at the World Rugby General Assembly on Wednesday. We look forward to future collaboration with the various unions involved and to supporting the ongoing development of rugby in the region.”

About the Southeast Asia Rugby Federation:

The SEARF was established in May 2025 by the National Rugby Unions of Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. The SEARF aims to promote the growth of rugby in Southeast Asia at both grassroots and elite levels as well as fostering closer cooperation in regional competitions and strengthening collaboration amongst its member unions.