About
KBI is guided by a simple principle: To build an organisation that is respected for its standards, its integrity, and the character of its members
History of Karate Budokan International
Karate Budokan International (KBI) was founded in the late 1960s by Chew Choo Soot in Malaysia. His vision, determination, and lifelong dedication established Budokan as a respected international organisation.
His journey into martial arts began with Taekwondo, but driven by a strong commitment to learning, he expanded his knowledge by engaging instructors from Japan and the Philippines, while also exploring Chinese martial arts. This exposure to multiple disciplines shaped the foundation of Budokan, a system built on adaptability, technical understanding, and continuous development.
In 1972, Karate Budokan International became the official name of the organisation, inspired by the Nippon Budokan in Japan, symbolising a place for the study and practice of martial arts. From this point, KBI grew rapidly, with affiliated schools established across Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, India, Sri Lanka, U.K. and later expanding into Europe and other parts of the world.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, KBI developed into an international organisation through tournaments, instructor development, and teaching tours, gaining a reputation for strong technical standards and practical effectiveness.
A defining characteristic of Budokan has always been its openness to learning. Rather than being limited to a single style, it integrates influences from Japanese karate, Korean Taekwondo, and Chinese martial arts, while maintaining a structured and disciplined approach to training.
Following Chew Choo Soot’s passing in 1997, the organisation evolved through a period of decentralisation. Today, KBI is being guided forward with a renewed focus on unity, integrity, and raising standards.
Under the leadership of Richard Chew as Guardian of KBI, together with Head of KBI Mike Tan and Chief Instructor Wayne MacDonald, the organisation continues to honour its origins while evolving with a clear direction, not to be the largest, but to be an organisation respected for its standards, its conduct, and the character of its members.
Built through discipline, resilience, and hard work, Budokan has influenced generations of martial artists around the world.
Today, that foundation remains central to everything we do.
Our Leadership
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Richard Chew
Elder
Richard Chew leads with a clear philosophy — integrity, humility, and high standards.
His focus is not on building the largest organisation, but one that earns genuine respect.
“My focus is reunifying and strengthening KBI. We will not aim to be the biggest organisation — only the most respected. Standards, integrity, and clear direction will guide us as we continue the legacy built by my father, Chew Choo Soot.”
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Mike Tan
Head of KBI-World | Elder
Mike Tan brings over 50 years of dedication to Budokan Karate.
A direct student of the founder, he has played a key role in developing KBI across the UK and Europe.
“KBI‑World moves forward with a shared purpose – respect, discipline, and continuous improvement. My role is to guide this organisation with transparency and strong governance, ensuring we build a world‑class Budokan community for future generations.”
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Wayne MacDonald
Chief Instructor | Elder
Wayne MacDonald brings decades of experience as a competitor, coach, and instructor within Budokan Karate.
A former national and international champion, he has developed generations of students and instructors.
“Our priority is technical excellence. Through structured training and consistent standards, every dojo will deliver authentic Budokan Karate. With decades of WKF elite experience, I am committed to raising performance and supporting instructors worldwide.”
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In Budokan, integrity and humility matter more than grade.
Join a community of instructors and students who share a commitment to integrity, humility, and the pursuit of excellence.