Silat championship becomes annual fixture

SEBUYAU: The inaugural YB Dato Sri Haji Julaihi bin Haji Narawi Invitational Silat Championship was such a resounding success that it will now be an annual event, said Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.
“I am delighted to see 288 young silat athletes from across Sarawak participating in this event,” said Julaihi, who is also the Sebuyau assemblyman.
He credited the improved road infrastructure in his constituency for facilitating the championship’s success.
“I am pleased to announce that this championship will be held annually starting next year. This event not only strengthens the silat community but also elevates the prestige of silat in Sebuyau,” he said at the closing ceremony held at Dewan Pembangunan Sebuyau on Sunday (Nov 24).
To support future tournaments, Julaihi said that a RM30,000 grant from the 2025 Minor Rural Project (MRP) allocation would be given to Pertubuhan Seni Silat Helang Putih Perkasa (SHPP) Sebuyau.
He also commended the collaborative efforts of SHPP Sebuyau, the Sebuyau District Office, and the Sarawak Silat Grassroots Federation in organising the championship.
In the Early Age category, SHPP Sebuyau A emerged as champions, clinching 6 gold, 2 silver, and 4 bronze medals.
SHPP Kuching and Pertubuhan Gerak Silat Bayang Miri secured second and third place, respectively.
For the Pre-Youth category, SHPP Sarikei topped the standings with 6 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medal. SHPP Sebuyau A and SHPP Belaga followed closely behind.
Winning teams were rewarded with cash prizes, trophies, medals, and certificates of appreciation.
The champions received RM10,000, the runners-up RM5,000 and the third-place finishers RM3,000.