SILAT

WHAT IS SILAT?

Silat is the generic term used to describe the martial arts of Malaysia, South Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, and the Southern Philippines. In Indonesia, it is referred to as Pencak Silat, and in the other countries as Seni Silat. It is called Pencakor pentjak silat; in some places silek, in some gayong. They are all terms for the same thing.

Silat is a comprehensive combat art covering all ranges from weapons to ground fighting. Because the art is all-encompassing, it has been described as a “Jack of all Trades”. It has the power of Karate and Thai boxing with the sensitivity of kung fu; the locks and throws of jujitsu with the weapons arsenal of Escrima, plus specialist areas not found in many other martial arts. Coupled with the fact that life or death challenges are not unheard of in South East Asia, the survival and success of Silat in the face of open challenges make the system frighteningly effective.

Silat has existed in South East Asia for several hundred years. It was originally described as Pertikaman, which means to stab. This is because Silat is known as a keris art, and this is a stabbing weapon.

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My current interest in doing a series of paintings and drawings about this form of martial arts was spurred by an event. An event which has really motivated me to learn more and become better at expressing my thoughts and feelings towards other cultures,

Although the project is still ongoing, I have had quite a very appreciative amount of support from clients and other well-wishers.

At the completion of the project, I intend to showcase all the works in an exhibition by the middle of 2020 in Penang as well as Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.