IPOH: With the younger generation increasingly distancing themselves from training, even recognition by Unesco will not guarantee the survival of silat, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Saarani.
The Perak Mentri Besar said veteran silat instructors and grandmasters must pass their knowledge to the next generation to keep the martial art alive.
“We may have a proud silat heritage, but if young people turn away from the training arena, fewer will truly master and appreciate the art,” he said in his speech at the Gema Warisan Rakan Muda X Himpunan Mahabbah 2026, which was read out by state education, higher education, youth and sports committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah.
Saarani said Malaysia has more than 150 identified silat styles, with the martial art declared a National Heritage in 2009 before gaining Unesco recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2019.
“Through regular training, they (youth) can develop discipline, self-confidence, mental resilience and respect for others. These qualities align with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda to develop quality human capital and youth,” Bernama reported him as saying.
He also cautioned against letting differences in silat styles, teaching traditions and training methods cause divisions, saying they should instead be embraced with mutual respect and a spirit of brotherhood.
“Relations between silat schools must continue to be nurtured to ensure the martial art remains a unifying force in society while connecting younger generations with the nation’s history and culture,” he said.
