KUCHING: The spirit of silat is thriving among young fighters in Sarawak, thanks to strong support from parents and teachers.
Shamyr Eastmeth Alluwie, representing the Pertubuhan Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia, Sarawak, is thankful for the tremendous response from parents and educators.
“The support we received today was very encouraging,” he stated, highlighting the involvement of primary and secondary schools.
He added that the Kuching and Padawan District Education Office (PPD) has played a significant role, with accompanying teachers ensuring the safety of students and martial artists at the current venue at CityOne Megamall.
Shamyr who is a part of the technical committee of the tournament, explained that the association aims to introduce competitive silat among students, responding to the call from the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh, to include silat in combat sports.
“We want to promote this among our school students,” he told Sarawak Tribune recently.
The tournament has attracted participants from district education offices in Kuching, Padawan, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Sarikei, Sibu, Saratok, and beyond, including students from Segamat,Johor and Sabah.
Additionally, students from Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) are also involved.
Organised by the Pertubuhan Silat Seni Gayong Malaysia Sarawak in collaboration with the Malaysian National Silat Federation (Pesaka), the event features five officials from Malaysia to ensure adherence to established competition rules.
Shamyr expressed hope that more organisations will participate in future competitions to engage even more students.
“We welcome participation from Gayong and other associations. What’s important is that we elevate the tradition and culture of silat in Sarawak,” he said.
For the record, the 5th Edition of Sarawak Gayong Invitation Silat Championship at Cityone Megamall is being held from Oct 23 to 26 with 500 silat fighters from Sarawak, West Malaysia and Sabah participating.
