#Malaysia silat practitioners

[senigayungfatani]

Penutupan Program 2024 8th Martial Arts Open School di Malaysia Semasa Kejohanan Silat Piala Merdeka 2024

Pada 25 Ogos 2024, Program 2024 8th Martial Arts Open School in Malaysia secara rasmi ditutup dengan penuh gilang-gemilang semasa Kejohanan Silat Piala Merdeka 2024 di D’Pulze Cyberjaya. Program yang berlangsung selama tiga bulan ini merupakan inisiatif kerjasama antara Pertubuhan Seni Gayung Fatani Malaysia (PSGFM) dan UNESCO International Centre of Martial Arts (ICM). Penutupan ini menandakan…

[genyukandojo]

Martial Art: Definition, History, Types, & Facts

Definition of Martial Arts

Martial arts refer to a variety of combat practices and traditions that have been developed over centuries for self-defense, military, and law enforcement applications, as well as mental and spiritual development. The term "martial" is derived from Mars, the Roman god of war, indicating a connection to combat and warfare. Martial arts encompass techniques for unarmed and armed combat, and they often emphasize discipline, respect, and the development of the practitioner's mind, body, and spirit.

History of Martial Arts

The history of martial arts is as diverse as the many forms it encompasses, spanning thousands of years and multiple continents.

Ancient Origins:

Martial arts have ancient roots, with early evidence found in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. The earliest recorded instances date back to 3000 BCE in Egypt, where depictions of combat training were discovered in tombs. Ancient Greek wrestling and pankration, a combination of boxing and wrestling, were popular in the Olympic Games and highlight the early significance of combat sports.

Asian Martial Arts:

Asia is often regarded as the cradle of martial arts. Chinese martial arts, known as kung fu or wushu, have a rich history that dates back to the Xia Dynasty (2070-1600 BCE). The Shaolin Monastery in China played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of martial arts. Monks at Shaolin developed techniques for Martial Arts self-defense and physical conditioning, which eventually evolved into various styles of kung fu.

In Japan, martial arts like jujutsu, kendo, and kyudo have deep historical roots. The samurai, Japan's warrior class, practiced bushido, a code of conduct emphasizing honor, discipline, and martial prowess. Judo, developed by Jigoro Kano in the late 19th century, and karate, originating from Okinawa, are also prominent Japanese martial arts.

Korean Martial Arts:

Korean martial arts, such as taekwondo, have a rich history influenced by indigenous practices and interactions with Chinese and Japanese martial arts. Taekwondo, characterized by its high, fast kicks and jumping and spinning kicks, was officially named in the 1950s but has historical antecedents in earlier Korean martial traditions.

Southeast Asian Martial Arts:

In Southeast Asia, martial arts such as Muay Thai from Thailand, Silat from Indonesia and Malaysia, and Arnis from the Philippines have long traditions. Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, emphasizes strikes using fists, elbows, knees, and shins. Silat encompasses a variety of fighting styles, often including weapons training. Arnis, also known as Eskrima or Kali, is focused on stick fighting but also includes empty-hand techniques.

Types of Martial Arts

Martial arts can be broadly categorized into traditional and modern styles, each with distinct characteristics and purposes.

Traditional Martial Arts:

These styles often have deep cultural and historical roots, emphasizing techniques passed down through generations.

Kung Fu:

Chinese martial arts that include various styles such as Wing Chun, Shaolin Kung Fu, and Tai Chi. Wing Chun focuses on close-range combat, Shaolin Kung Fu emphasizes a wide range of techniques and forms, and Tai Chi is known for its slow, meditative movements aimed at cultivating internal energy (Qi).

Karate:

Originating from Okinawa, Japan, karate emphasizes striking techniques, including punches, kicks, knee strikes, and elbow strikes. Styles such as Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, and Kyokushin have unique characteristics and training methods.

Judo:

Founded by Jigoro Kano in Japan, judo focuses on throws, joint locks, and grappling techniques. It is a modern martial art and Olympic sport that emphasizes leverage and balance to overcome opponents.

Aikido:

Developed by Morihei Ueshiba, aikido combines joint locks, throws, and blending movements to redirect an opponent's energy. It emphasizes harmony and non-resistance, Aikido Classes NYC.

Taekwondo:

Korean martial art known for its high, fast kicks and jumping and spinning techniques. It emphasizes speed, agility, and dynamic footwork.

Muay Thai:

Thai martial art and national sport known for its striking techniques using fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It is often referred to as the "art of eight limbs."

Silat:

Martial art from Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It includes strikes, joint manipulation, throws, and weaponry.

Modern Martial Arts:

These styles often incorporate elements from traditional martial arts and are adapted for contemporary self-defense, sport, and fitness.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA):

A full-contact combat sport that combines techniques from various martial arts, including boxing, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai. MMA has gained immense popularity through organizations like the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ):

Developed from jujutsu and judo, BJJ focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It emphasizes technique, leverage, and positional control.

Krav Maga:

An Israeli martial art and self-defense system developed for military and law enforcement. It focuses on practical techniques for real-world situations, emphasizing aggression and neutralizing threats quickly.

Kickboxing:

A hybrid martial art that combines elements of traditional karate with boxing. It is practiced for self-defense, fitness, and as a competitive sport.

Jeet Kune Do:

Developed by Bruce Lee, Jeet Kune Do emphasizes simplicity, directness, and efficiency. It incorporates techniques from various martial arts, aiming to be adaptable and practical.

Facts about Martial Arts

Mental and Physical Benefits:

Martial arts training provides numerous physical benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and coordination. It also enhances mental well-being by reducing stress, increasing focus, and promoting discipline and self-control.

Spiritual Development:

Many martial arts emphasize spiritual growth and inner peace. Practices like meditation, mindfulness, and breathing exercises are integral parts of arts such as Tai Chi, Aikido, and certain styles of Kung Fu.

Global Popularity:

Martial arts have a global following, with millions of practitioners worldwide. They are popular not only for self-defense and sport but also as a means of cultural preservation and personal development.

Martial Arts in Media:

Martial arts have a significant presence in movies, television, and literature. Icons like Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li have brought martial arts to mainstream audiences through their films, showcasing the beauty and effectiveness of various styles.

Olympic Recognition:

Several martial arts have been included in the Olympic Games. Judo became an Olympic sport in 1964, Taekwondo in 2000, and Karate made its debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Martial Arts and Self-Defense:

While many martial arts are practiced for sport and fitness, they remain effective self-defense systems. Techniques from Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai are widely taught to law enforcement and military personnel.

Cultural Heritage:

Martial arts are often deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of their countries of origin. They reflect historical traditions, philosophies, and values, and are often preserved and promoted as national treasures.

Martial Arts Schools and Dojos:

Training in martial arts typically takes place in specialized schools or dojos, where students learn under the guidance of experienced instructors. These environments emphasize respect, discipline, and camaraderie among practitioners.

Conclusion

Martial arts encompass a vast array of combat practices and traditions, each with its unique history, techniques, and philosophies. From ancient origins to modern adaptations, martial arts continue to evolve and thrive, offering physical, mental, and spiritual benefits to practitioners around the world. Whether practiced for self-defense, sport, or personal growth, Martial Arts Schools in Queens NY remain a powerful and enduring aspect of human culture and heritage.

[southeastasianhistories]

"To understand Mohammad Din Mohammad, you need to understand Sufism because he is on a journey towards understanding the divine. Most of his paintings reflect this. His calligraphic paintings, even the nature paintings and the assemblages..."

- Ahmad Zakii Anwar, interviewed by Shabbir Hussain Mustafa, Singapore, 8 August 2008

"In Mhd Din's case, such a yearning became artistically productive and has generated a posthumous literature on his work which ranges from scholarly texts to exhibitions. Many of these studies have attempted to answer the charge that, in privileging one aspect of his work, it fails to attend another: a guru silat or Malay martial arts master Mhd Din ignoring a Mhd Din informed by the conventions of easel painting; a Mhd Din fascinated by machines neglecting a Mhd Din who is deeply rooted in Sufi metaphysics; a Mhd Din who heals the sick in the privacy of his home and is also astute in the public performances of silat and theatre. Yet, the very fact that Mhd Din is not easily assimilated within definable categories should signal the potential of his art, and in particular, his lifelong engagement with the knowledge systems that make up the Malay world."

- Excerpt from Mohammad Din Mohammad: The Mistaken Ancestor (from the series: Something New Must Turn Up, Six Singaporean Artists After 1965 by the National Gallery Singapore)

Mohammad Din Mohammad (1955-2007) was born in Melaka, Malaysia, and migrated with his family to Singapore at the age of two. His artistic practice spanned painting, assemblage and Islamic calligraphy. He was also a practicing bomoh and a practitioner of the Malay martial art, silat.

(1) Earth Energy, 1994. Collection of the estate of Mohammad Din Mohammad

(2) Installation view of Mohammad Din Mohammad: The Mistaken Ancestor at National Gallery Singapore

(3) Portrait of the artist (from the interview Mystic & Momok)

(4) Issues and Emotions, 2000.

[esaeld]

Silat

Silat is a loose term used to refer to Indonesian, Malaysian, and some Filipino martial arts. Silat loosely translated may mean "one that moves like lightning". It may also mean "skillful movement" but the exact etimology of the term is hard to trace due to the infusion of so many cultures. Based on where the style originated it may be called Main Po, Betawi, Penjak Silat, Poekolon, etc. Jave, Sumatra, Bali, and other regions all have their own blend of this approach. Most Silat systems are blade oriented and therefore the knife is a big part of it. The wavy blade known as the Kris is a trademark of Silat and is regarded by the most steeped in Silat to possess magical properties. The teacher of Silat is called "Guru" or "Guro in tagalog". The master "Maha Guru". The spiritual master as "Pendekar". These terms may be interchangable depending on who you get your knowledge. Popular systems are Mande Muda, Cimande, Bukti Negara, Maphilindo, Harimau, Mustika Kwitang, Tapak Suci, Tjimande, Poekoelan Tjiminde, the list goes on…Indonesian culture has three main categories of martial art form: 1. Pentjak Silat (self-defense) ; 2. Penjang Gulat (wrestling ); and 3. Ujungan (stick & blade application). These variations of fighting methods have been in existence since 400 AD. Today, Pentjak Silat is the most popular of the three systems with wide spread organized associations and through acknowledged practitioners. Penjang Gulatis practiced mostly by the farmers of Indonesia, and is rarely seen today, except at annual festival events. Ujungan is occasionally incorporated into various Pentjak Silat styles or other systems that are closely related to Indonesian culture like the Filipino martial arts. These three major styles may be seen individually as a self-defense form or combined to make up one particular system. This depends on the experience of the practitioner.  Pentjak Silat is performed with a high degree of rhythmic and artistic motions that give it a dance like appearance with a deadly array of combative techniques. The combinations of soft and hard explosive movements, changing directions at any point in time, forms a defensive system that uses hard strikes with flexible postures. Pentjak Silat practitioners occasionally hide their techniques from the attacker with unusual postures, stances and hypnotic movements that are meant to confuse and deceive the attacker. Once this is achieved, Pentjak Silat practitioners will defend or attack from a variation of angles and positions that surprise the opponent, giving the advantage to the Pentjak Silat practitioner. Other forms of deception that Indonesian warriors have used against their opponents are colorful garments and wooden facial masks that represented frightened and colorful gods.  These tactics were also used to heighten the warriors adrenaline to endure the pains and victory of  battle. It is also noted that these tactics of self hypnotizes were used to transcends one's spirit and physical appearance into a form of a god, making him invincible and untouchable. But Hindu master that perform such court dances of display represent not only the invincible warrior but princes, guardians, heroes and legends that all tell stories of their great nobility. Such acts as these have been the core of Indonesian beliefs for thousands of years. There are approximately 800 different systems of Pentjak Silat throughout Indonesia. Each share some similar characteristics to the other, but all Pentjak Silat styles are different in their fighting method. Distinctive styles developed to address the differences in the terrain and environment of the villages as well as the physical characteristics of the tribesmen that displayed them. Some techniques are characterized by upright postures and sweeping motions that trip the opponent off balance, while other styles are characterized by low stances and involve pulling the opponent to the ground.  Pentjak Silat practitioners are trained to constantly deliver elbows, knees, empty hand blows, locks and take downs as their primary empty hand defense, and yet maintaining to keep the symbolic art form that is native to the Indonesian culture. Variations in the use of daggers and blades are incorporated into Pentjak Silat empty hand defense without changing the basis of the system. Blending the use of weaponry, with ones movements and combative applications, forges a type of martial art that is mysterious, sophisticated and deadly with weaponry applications.                                                                                                                           Migration from different cultures such as Persia, India, Malaysia, Philippines, and Europe have occurred in the Indonesian islands for centuries. The Dutch being one of the most successful in controlling the spice trade and valuable resources that are native to the Indonesian islands ruled parts of Indonesia until the year 1948. In that year, the Indonesian revolution occurred, and native Indonesians successfully fought to take back the control of their country from the Dutch. Today we see Pentjak Silat spelled and pronounced in two different manners. 1. Native Indonesian spelling - Pencak Silat  2. English spelling -Pentjak Silat.       Pentjak Silat teaches specifically arranged set forms that are called: Juru's, Buha and Sumbuts. These patterns train the practitioner to constantly move into particular formations of footwork while executing their defensive weaponry. Indonesian native instruments are played to accompany the practitioner's movements and to influence rhythm into the practitioner's motions. Once this is mastered the practitioner then will incorporate several of the forms that have been practiced, and deliver them without any particular order or structure. This high level of performance is called "Kembangan" which translates to "ones own expression" while performing Pentjak Silat.