SEREMBAN: A display of culture, arts and an epic show of the Malay martial art of ‘Silat Pahlawan’ or Warrior Self-defence provided a colourful and action-packed occasion at Royale Chulan here recently.
As Negri Sembilan ventures into promoting its culture, arts and heritage especially its ‘Adat Perpatih’ and various tourism spots, the event showcased another part of the state’s heritage which could attract visitors to the state ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2020.
‘Silat Pahlawan’ is a sport which is being encouraged among the youths since it has been recognised internationally.
It is hoped that efforts by the state authorities and private entities would lead to more martial arts tournaments in the state, while producing national-level silat contenders and athletes.
As another support of its promotional activities is a film production entitled "Putera Empayar Nusantara (PEN)" which is scheduled for production in January and is scheduled to be released in 2021.
This movie will be shot at various places of attraction in the state and showcase traditions, cultures and the arts that originate from Negri Sembilan.
It will star several prominent actors including Ismi Melinda and Cecep Arif Rahman.
Azlina Mohd Sukaimi, economic advisor to the Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar said there was a plan to have a dedicated area in the state to further sustain this type of silat.
"This area could be a place where ‘warriors’ and exponents of this unique heritage will come from all over the country to congregate," she said.
Meanwhile, silat exponents from Kedah, Johor, Perlis, Negri Sembilan and Pahang gathered at the same event to display their skills in various forms of the martial art.
Their demonstrations had the audiences in suspense and admiration.
"It is important that we continue providing awareness and the correct knowledge of our arts and heritage, such as silat and our Perpatih tradition.
“It is very important to impart the correct knowledge to our younger generation,” said Datuk Muhammad Abdullah, who holds the title of Dato’ Pahlawan Lela Perkasa Setiawan.
He launched the silat showcase and the signing ceremony between the film’s producer and the cast.
"I enjoyed and appreciated the unique discipline of the silat practioners. I was fortunate to witness them today," said Tengku Nasharudin Tengku Laksamana Nasir Al-Haj, who also attended the event.
The film aspires to provide awareness and encourage more interest and involvement towards silat martial through a series of nationwide promotions in Malaysia and Indonesia.