PMX Launches National Silat Championship 2026, Emphasizes Youth Identity and Cultural Heritage

KUANTAN: Malaysia’s Prime Minister officially inaugurated the Piala PMX Pendekar MADANI Silat Championship 2026, underscoring the importance of preserving traditional martial arts as a cornerstone of national identity and youth development.

Addressing participants and spectators, the Prime Minister described the championship as more than a competitive platform, calling it a historic moment that revives the spirit of heroism deeply embedded in Malaysia’s cultural legacy.

He praised the enthusiasm and dedication of young silat practitioners, highlighting their role in preserving a heritage that goes beyond physical combat to embody moral strength and identity.

“Silat is not merely about physical strength. It represents discipline, courage, responsibility, and respect qualities that shape the character of our society,” he said.

The Prime Minister stressed that under the MADANI vision, Malaysia aims to cultivate a generation of “pendekar” who are not only agile and skilled in the arena but also guided by strong ethics and unwavering principles. He emphasized the need for youth to stand firm against injustice and uphold integrity in all aspects of life.

He added that such values are crucial in building resilient, responsible individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.

The championship, held in Kuantan, has attracted participants, instructors, and supporters from across the country, reflecting the enduring relevance of silat in modern Malaysia.

Expressing confidence in the future of the art, the prime minister acknowledged the vital role of teachers and mentors in nurturing the next generation of practitioners.

He concluded by urging Malaysians to continue safeguarding this cultural treasure, ensuring that silat remains a symbol of unity, strength, and national pride for years to come.