Why is it called Silat Melayu or Warrior’s Journey?

The genesis of traditional Malay martial arts hails from the need for self-defence, hunting techniques and military training in ancient Malay civilisation. Hand-to-hand combat and weapons practice were important in training warriors. These early fighting styles express the movements of various animals such as the tiger, crocodile and eagle, and are deeply influenced by ancient Malay Animism. As the expanding Iron Age civilisations on mainland Southeast Asia engaged in warfare and diplomacy, it advanced the art of war, weaponry and martial arts skills, hence the name Warrior’s Journey.

Are there different types of Silat?

There are hundreds of different styles but they tend to focus either on strikes, joint manipulation, throws, bladed weaponry or a combination of these disciplines. Other forms stress meditation that helps with breathing techniques.

What makes Malaysia’s Silat Melayu unique compared to the versions practised in other Southeast Asian countries (such as Singapore, Brunei or Thailand)?

Malaysia’s style is ‘hard in soft’ – the movements look soft but the defence poses are sturdy and hard to absorb any attack. It also has more secret movements that hide a weapon or technique from opponents. Other countries’ forms of Silat, such as Indonesia’s, showcase how strong the practitioners are, with faster movements and attacks more often represented by high kicks, jumps and agile manoeuvres.

Silat Melayu is protected under UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. What does that mean to you?

As a native Malaysian, it signifies a proud achievement as it makes more people aware of the history, culture and benefits of Silat, which originates from the ancient Melaka (Malacca) kingdom.

Is it hard to learn Silat?

For me, learning Silat is challenging mentally and physically, as you’re required to practice the same movements for a long time. It requires good stamina as it involves a lot of breathing techniques in order to perform the beautiful art of Silat.

The Way of the Warrior