On June 11, 2026 the world rafting community witnessed a historic milestone with the successful conclusion of the Asia Continental Assembly of United Rafting. The assembly officially elected the President and Members of the Asian Continental Council, establishing the representative governing body for the continent’s current electoral cycle.
United Rafting President Danilo Barmaz opened the assembly by highlighting the strategic importance of Asia within the global rafting movement. He noted that the continent boasts some of the world's most spectacular rivers and a massive population, offering enormous potential for the sport's expansion. Emphasizing the mission of the newly unified federation, Barmaz stressed that United Rafting stands for solidarity, environmental stewardship, inclusion, and gender equality. Crucially, he outlined the long-term strategic objective of securing recognition for rafting in major multi-sport events, including the Asian Games, as a stepping stone toward future Olympic and Paralympic inclusion.
Following the addresses, the assembly unanimously elected Mr. Shaukat Pal Singh Sikand as the new President of the Asian Continental Council, securing 100% of the valid votes cast. Bringing decades of experience dating back to the mid-1980s, Sikand presented a powerful vision centered on unity. He pledged to prioritize gender equality, youth participation, and anti-doping initiatives, while actively supporting countries looking to host international competitions.
The newly elected Board Members joining Sikand bring a dynamic mix of expertise, educational leadership, and passion for the outdoors:
Dr. Amalia Yunita (Indonesia) introduced a comprehensive three-pillar strategy focusing on competitive athlete development, the promotion of sustainable rafting tourism, and the strengthening of regional cooperation through shared knowledge.
Mr. Mohd Hasrol Bin Kamis (Malaysia) drew on his deep background as a river guide and event director to champion professional development, safety, and competency-based training for officials, while advocating for the sport's inclusion in the Southeast Asian Games.
Mr. Hayatullah Khan Durrani (Pakistan) and Mr. Majid Salih Abdulraheem (Iraq) both emphasized the transformative power of rafting as a vehicle for tourism development and robust international collaboration across borders.
Throughout the assembly, delegates from across the continent - including representatives from Japan, Nepal, Iran, and Malaysia - shared their perspectives. Leaders like Ms. Katayoon Ashraf (Iran) and Mr. Daigo Shibata (Japan) praised the abundance of athletic talent and high-quality rivers in the region, echoing the collective enthusiasm for enhanced regional cooperation and future joint initiatives.
Looking ahead, United Rafting is committed to further strengthening its structural foundation. President Barmaz announced the upcoming expansion of dedicated commissions focusing on youth development, women in rafting, tourism, and para-rafting - a critical inclusion project paving the way toward future Paralympic recognition.
With this newly established leadership team, the Asian Continental Council is ready to drive participation, elevate guiding standards and propel the vibrant sport of rafting into a new era of global prominence.
