Asia Rugby Launches ‘Try Together’ Development Program Backed by Emirates

Asia Rugby is proud to officially launch Try Together, a landmark initiative program supported by Emirates.

TTP program was endorsed at the Asia Rugby Council meeting in November 2024 and is set to accelerate rugby development initially across six targeted member unions through structured financial and technical assistance.

TTP aims to expand grassroots rugby, strengthen regional competitiveness, and support alignment with the World Rugby membership pathway.

The first 6 recipient unions namely, Cambodia, Brunei, Bangladesh, Macau, Iraq and Kyrgyzstan – were chosen based on clear development needs and strategic relevance.“Asia Rugby is committed to building an inclusive and sustainable rugby ecosystem across our diverse continent, said Qais Al Dhalai, President of Asia Rugby. This program embodies our belief that we can do better—but together. With the generous backing of Emirates, we are ensuring that even the most emerging unions are not left behind in the global rugby journey.”

Related News:
https://www.asiarugby.com/2024/09/20/asia-rugby-and-emirates/

To mark the launch, a joint signing ceremony was held on the 28th of June 2025 in Mumbai, bringing together representatives of the six unions taking part. The ceremony was kindly hosted and facilitated by Rugby India, held alongside the final of the Rugby Premier League – highlighting Asia Rugby’s commitment to community-led growth and regional collaboration.

Programme Highlights:
• Duration: 12-month Renewable Cycle

Support Areas:
• In-country development workshops
• Accredited World Rugby training and education
• Technical assistance from Asia Rugby experts
• Local festivals, coaching stipends and domestic tournaments
• Competitive entry support (e.g. Emirates Sevens Trophy)
• Governance and compliance support for World Rugby membership progressEach union signed a Development Partnership Agreement with Asia Rugby to ensure accountability, measurable outcomes and adherence to good governance practices. Monitoring and evaluation will be led by the Asia Rugby Executive Committee.Voices from the Unions:

Abdullah Al Zubair, President, Bangladesh Rugby Federation Union:
“This investment marks a turning point for rugby in Bangladesh. With Asia Rugby and Emirates behind us, we can now scale our grassroots programmes and empower more young people to discover the joy and discipline of rugby. We are committed to making the most of this opportunity and progressing towards full World Rugby recognition.”

Luis Heredia, President, Macau Rugby Union:
“Macau is honoured to be part of this inclusive development initiative. The support from Asia Rugby and Emirates allows us to strengthen our foundations, offer better training, and elevate our presence in regional competitions. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected rugby community in Asia.”

Nurgazy Kuldzhaev, President, Kyrgyzstan Federation for Rugby:
“Rugby is growing fast in Kyrgyzstan, and this partnership will help us accelerate that growth with purpose and structure. Through Asia Rugby’s guidance and the support of Emirates, we can professionalise our systems and inspire a new generation to play, lead, and thrive in rugby.”

Dr. Fareeq Hazzaa, President, Iraq Rugby Federation:
“In Iraq, rugby has become a symbol of unity and hope. This programme brings vital technical and financial resources that will support our local coaches, players, and clubs. We thank Asia Rugby and Emirates for believing in our journey and helping us build a brighter future through sport.”

Azahar Timbang, Secretary General, Brunei Rugby Football Union:
“Thank you to Asia Rugby and Emirates for empowering us with this support. It will directly fuel our grassroots programs, helping us reach more young players and create a rugby culture rooted in teamwork, resilience, and unity.”

Samedy Lun, President, Cambodia Federation of Rugby: “We are grateful to Asia Rugby and Emirates for believing in our potential and giving us the tools to build a stronger, more inclusive rugby environment.TTP exemplifies Asia Rugby’s vision of inclusive development and long-term impact—powered by partnership, guided by purpose, and united through sport.”