KUCHING: The role of silat masters as custodians of cultural heritage and shapers of community identity continues to be recognised as a vital pillar in sustaining the Malay martial art tradition in Sarawak and Malaysia.

President of the Sarawak Malay National Association (PKMS), Dato Dr Wan Ali Tuanku Madhi, said that silat masters are not merely instructors of self-defence, but also educators, guides, mentors and guardians of the nation’s cultural values and moral principles.

“The knowledge imparted by silat masters does not only strengthen the physical body, but also shapes personal identity, builds discipline, instils courage, nurtures respect for teachers, and upholds noble character,” he said.

He made these remarks in his speech at the Dinner with Silat Masters held in conjunction with the Festival Jabat Sejagat 2025 at the Waterfront Hotel Kuching on Friday.

According to Dato Dr Wan Ali, the Festival Jabat Sejagat 2025 serves as a unifying platform for various silat streams and schools to showcase the art of silat, share knowledge and strengthen bonds of brotherhood within the silat community.

He added that PKMS, established on 10 October 1939, is the oldest non-governmental organisation (NGO) in Sarawak and has remained steadfast in its commitment to upholding Islam, customs, culture and Malay heritage, including the art of silat.

In this regard, he said, PKMS supports and encourages the organisation of cultural programmes such as the Festival Jabat Sejagat to ensure that the Malay silat heritage continues to be passed down to younger generations as a symbol of identity and cultural strength.

Also present at the event were Sarawak Silat Federation (RSS) President Muhammad Hannef Ali, RSS Deputy President Dato Mohammad Yusnar Matalie, RSS Vice President I Mohamed Alli Zainudin, PKMS Secretary-General Ahmad Zainuddin Drahman, and RSS Secretary-General Abas Hamzah Muhd Haneef. -UKASnews

Reporter: Nur Nabilla
Translator: Uilson Ng
Photographer: Nur Nabilla