Johor Cultural Council (MKNJ) has commended efforts by silat practitioners on organising a Silat Pukul Showcase centred on cultural preservation and the arts in Mersing.
Its deputy president Anuar Abd Manap said, “We must recognise the significance of these traditions, especially silat pukul, which attracts not only locals in Mersing, but also enthusiasts from across Johor.”
The council welcomed initiatives by the local authorities to improve and expand cultural and artistic activities within their jurisdiction.
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“The Silat Pukul Showcase is a prime example of how we can empower and introduce silat pukul – a traditional self-defence art – to the public,” he said.
“If Mersing has its unique style of silat pukul, then there may be other districts with their own silat traditions that can be developed further.”
He said MKNJ played a role in exploring ways to expand Johor’s cultural heritage beyond the state and internationally.
“We have Johor’s signature woven fabric called benang Johor and songket Johor.
“Civil servants in Johor are encouraged to wear baju kurung or baju melayu teluk belanga with kain benang Johor every Friday from this year,” he said.
“We are also working with Johor Heritage Foundation to strategise cultural programmes at the district and state levels.”
Anuar also spoke about the upcoming Festival Zapin to be launched by Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, later this year.
Mersing district officer Jamil Hasni Abdullah thanked Sahabat Mersing and Silat Aliran Buah Pukul (SIAP) secretariat for their role in organising the silat showcase in Mersing.
“This programme is organised annually.
“We will also be hosting the Mersing Entrepreneurship and Cultural Festival in May.
“Our goal is to introduce Mersing’s tourism products, such as virgin coconut oil and traditional Malay keris,” he said.
He added that Mersing District Office was also considering a proposal from SIAP to build a silat pukul pavilion near Dataran Monumen Mersing.
Jamil Hasni hoped the Johor government would assist Mersing in promoting its unique tourism products and help showcase attractions in the district. — By REMAR NORDIN
