by GM Prof Dr Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie
Introduction
The collaboration between Pertubuhan Seni Gayung Fatani Malaysia (PSGFM) and the International Centre of Martial Arts for Youth Development and Engagement under the auspices of UNESCO (UNESCO ICM) reached a significant milestone with the organization of the 8th Martial Arts Open School in Malaysia. This program was aimed at enhancing martial arts skills among Malaysian youth while emphasizing their physical, mental, and psychological development. The partnership highlighted the roles of both organizations in supporting youth education and promoting cultural exchange through traditional martial arts.
Goals and Objectives of the Program
The primary goal of the 2024 8th Martial Arts Open School was to contribute to the development of Malaysian youth by providing martial arts training and psychological education. The program took place from June 8 to September 1, 2024, at Sekolah Kebangsaan Seksyen 9, Shah Alam, with sessions held on weekends from 2 PM to 5 PM. Each session involved three groups of 50 participants aged between 7 and 18.
The training consisted of 70% physical and martial arts instruction, with the remaining 30% focused on psychological development. This approach aimed to strengthen the participants’ mental resilience while also enhancing their physical skills in martial arts. With the involvement of 150 youths, the program sought to raise awareness of traditional martial arts and promote personal development.
Roles and Responsibilities of PSGFM and UNESCO ICM
As the primary organizer of the program, PSGFM was responsible for preparing all aspects of the implementation, including appointing two martial arts instructors, providing training equipment, refreshments, T-shirts, and stationery for the participants. They also ensured the suitability of the training venue and monitored the physical and emotional development of participants throughout the program. In addition, PSGFM played a key role in creating promotional materials such as banners and posters to raise awareness about the program.
UNESCO ICM, on the other hand, provided guidance to PSGFM on program execution and closely monitored the progress through weekly reports submitted by PSGFM. ICM ensured that PSGFM delivered detailed reports on the program’s outcomes, including financial statements, photos, videos, and participant performance. This level of monitoring and reporting ensured that all objectives were met and the program was successfully implemented.
Program Management and Monitoring
The program was meticulously planned and monitored through several stages. Before the program began, PSGFM selected participants, prepared the venue and equipment, and ensured all final preparations were completed. During the program, PSGFM conducted martial arts training sessions, tracked participant attendance, and monitored their physical, mental, and emotional development. They were also responsible for capturing photos and videos as evidence of the program’s progress.
Weekly and final reports were submitted to UNESCO ICM for review. These reports included physical and psychological assessments of the participants, observations on the impact of the training, and financial management details. The reports, along with high-resolution photos and a 5-minute video, were shared with UNESCO ICM through online platforms.
Impact and Success of the Program
The collaboration between PSGFM and UNESCO ICM in the 2024 8th Martial Arts Open School made a significant impact on Malaysian youth. With the participation of over 150 young people, the program not only helped develop their physical skills in martial arts but also strengthened their mental resilience through psychological training. Participants were able to delve into traditional Malaysian martial arts, which plays an important role in the country’s cultural heritage.
Through the physical and psychological training provided, participants developed essential skills such as discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness, which would benefit them in everyday life. The program also promoted cultural exchange and international cooperation, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds and further strengthening ties between Malaysia and international organizations like UNESCO ICM.
Conclusion
The strong collaboration between PSGFM and UNESCO ICM to execute the 2024 8th Martial Arts Open School has resulted in remarkable outcomes in terms of martial arts development and youth empowerment in Malaysia. With thorough monitoring from UNESCO ICM, PSGFM successfully implemented a program that had a profound impact on its participants. It is hoped that this program will continue and expand in the future, benefiting even more youth while promoting traditional Malaysian martial arts on a global scale.
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