by Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie (GM Prof Dr)
Abstract
Silat, an ancient martial art form originating from Southeast Asia, embodies a rich heritage of tradition, philosophy, and combat techniques. This comprehensive guide explores Silat through the lens of Pertubuhan Seni Gayung Fatani Malaysia (PSGFM), a leading institution founded in 1976 by Grandmaster Anuar Abdul Wahab. PSGFM serves as a beacon of Malay Silat, deeply rooted in Malaysia’s cultural fabric while promoting its practice globally. Delving into Silat’s origins, principles, techniques, and modern applications, this guide elucidates PSGFM’s holistic approach to self-defence and personal development. Central to PSGFM’s philosophy are adaptability, fluidity, and mind-body integration, epitomizing holistic harmony and efficiency in combat. Through rigorous training encompassing strikes, grappling, joint locks, and weapons proficiency, practitioners cultivate discipline, resilience, and mental fortitude. PSGFM’s curriculum emphasizes both physical prowess and mental resilience, preparing practitioners for real-world scenarios and fostering personal growth. Beyond self-defence, PSGFM fosters a supportive community, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Malay Silat. Through global outreach efforts and community engagement, PSGFM ensures Silat’s legacy thrives, inspiring future generations of practitioners worldwide. Embarking on a journey with PSGFM promises not only mastery of Silat’s techniques but also a transformative path of self-discovery, empowerment, and cultural appreciation.
Silat, an ancient martial art form originating from Southeast Asia, holds a rich heritage of tradition, philosophy, and combat techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of Silat, focusing on Pertubuhan Seni Gayung Fatani Malaysia (PSGFM) as a leading institution. Founded in 1976 by Grandmaster Anuar Abdul Wahab (Shapie et al., 2022a), PSGFM stands as a beacon of Malay Silat, promoting its practice globally while remaining deeply rooted in Malaysia’s cultural fabric (Shapie et al., 2015). Through its principles, techniques, and philosophy, PSGFM offers practitioners a holistic approach to self-defence and personal development (Shapie, 2021).
Origins of Silat
Silat’s origins are deeply intertwined with the histories of Malaysia, with PSGFM representing the epitome of Malay martial arts. Founded in Malaysia, PSGFM draws upon centuries of cultural exchange and warrior traditions. While the exact origins of Silat remain shrouded in mystery, it is believed to have emerged from the diverse cultural landscape of Southeast Asia, influenced by indigenous fighting systems and spiritual teachings (Shapie et al., 2016).
Principles and Philosophy
At the heart of PSGFM lies a set of principles governing both combat and life. Embracing adaptability, fluidity, and mind-body integration, PSGFM’s philosophy centres around the arts of Silat (Seni Silat), symbolizing holistic harmony and efficiency in combat (Shapie & Elias, 2015). Practitioners strive to embody these principles, cultivating balance, resilience, and inner peace in their daily lives through disciplined practice and adherence to PSGFM’s philosophical tenets.
Core Techniques
PSGFM’s techniques encompass a diverse array of strikes, grappling, and joint locks, honed through disciplined training and repetition. Central to PSGFM’s training are Jurus, choreographed sequences designed to teach fundamental techniques, footwork, and principles of timing and distance (Shapie et al., 2016; Shapie, 2021). Through the practice of Jurus, practitioners develop agility, coordination, and situational awareness essential for success in combat (Shapie et al., 2022).
Training Methods
Training in PSGFM is rigorous yet fosters camaraderie and mutual respect among practitioners. Structured drills, forms (jurus), and partner exercises form the backbone of PSGFM’s training regimen, instilling discipline, and refining techniques (Shapie et al., 2016). PSGFM emphasizes the importance of discipline, focus, and perseverance, nurturing a strong work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement (Anuar, 2007).
Weapons Training
PSGFM places a strong emphasis on weapons training, teaching practitioners to wield traditional Malay weapons with precision and skill. From the kris (keris) to the machete (golok), weapons training enhances combat proficiency and strategic understanding (Shapie et al., 2016). Practitioners learn to seamlessly integrate armed and unarmed combat, leveraging their knowledge to gain the upper hand in combat situations.
Silat Styles and Variations
PSGFM offers practitioners a variety of styles and variations, each embodying Silat’s essence in its unique way. Whether focusing on the fluid movements or the powerful strikes of Silat, PSGFM’s curriculum is comprehensive and adaptable to individual preferences and goals (Shapie, 2021).
Modern Applications
PSGFM’s principles and techniques remain highly relevant in modern self-defence contexts, adapted for real-world scenarios (Shapie, 2022). Its practicality and effectiveness have led to its incorporation into various martial arts systems and its use by military and law enforcement personnel. PSGFM’s focus on adaptability and situational awareness equips practitioners to navigate urban self-defence challenges effectively (Shapie et al., 2016).
Benefits of Practicing PSGFM
Beyond self-defence, PSGFM offers practitioners a myriad of benefits, including physical fitness, mental resilience, and discipline (Abdul Razak et al., 2022). The mental and emotional aspects of training cultivate focus, concentration, and stress management skills, empowering practitioners to face life’s challenges with courage and resilience (Shapie, 2022). PSGFM’s emphasis on community and belonging fosters a supportive environment for personal growth and development (Anuar, 2002;2007).
History and Achievements of PSGFM
Pertubuhan Seni Gayung Fatani Malaysia (PSGFM) stands as the most prominent registered Malay Silat association in Malaysia (Anuar, 2002). Founded in 1976 by Grandmaster Anuar Abdul Wahab, PSGFM has been actively promoting Silat, spreading its influence on countries like France, Austria, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States (Anuar, 2007; Shapie, 2021). Over the years, PSGFM has amassed numerous achievements, including victories in the National Silat Championship and participation in international events showcasing the world’s best self-defence practices. PSGFM has also been recognized globally, receiving awards such as the Best Sport Organization of the Year in the Asia Sports Industry Awards and invitations to prestigious events like the World Congress of Malay Heritage. Additionally, PSGFM has contributed significantly to the development of Malay Silat, publishing martial arts literature, conducting scientific studies, and hosting international conferences (Cynarski, 2021).
Seni Gayung Fatani: The Essence of Malay Silat
Seni Gayung Fatani, PSGFM’s indigenous practice of Malay Silat, traces its roots to the art of war and forms the cornerstone of Malay identity. Led by Grandmaster Aminuddin Anuar, PSGFM boasts a syllabus that lays the foundation for the Malaysian Seni Silat Curriculum, emphasizing clear and concise execution in teaching (Nawai et al., 2022). Seni Gayung Fatani has been acknowledged as a Malaysian heritage martial art, with its curriculum serving as the basis for self-defence activities in primary and secondary schools across Malaysia. The practice has garnered a vast following, with over 300,000 members nationwide (Abdul Razak et al., 2022). Unlike other Silat systems, Seni Gayung Fatani remains authentic to its origins, devoid of techniques borrowed from other martial arts forms. Its comprehensive curriculum covers self-defence, arts, techniques, and combat, preparing practitioners for both Silat Olahraga (combat sports of Silat) (Pawista & shapie, 2019; Shapie et al., 2019; Shapie et al., 2022b) and real-life combat scenarios (Abdul Razak & Muhamad, 2022).
Training Curriculum and Techniques
Under PSGFM’s curriculum, practitioners undergo rigorous training in a variety of techniques, including strikes, grappling, and joint locks. Central to the training are Jurus, meticulously choreographed sequences designed to instil fundamental techniques, footwork, and timing principles. Additionally, PSGFM places a strong emphasis on weapons training, teaching practitioners to wield traditional Malay weapons with precision and skill. Training sessions are structured to foster discipline, focus, and perseverance, with practitioners engaging in drills, forms, and partner exercises to refine their skills (Abdul Razak et al., 2022). PSGFM’s curriculum not only focuses on physical prowess but also on mental resilience, stress management, and situational awareness (Anuar, 2007). Through disciplined practice and adherence to PSGFM’s philosophical tenets, practitioners develop a holistic approach to self-defence and personal development, equipping them with the skills and mindset necessary to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and courage.
Community and Global Outreach
PSGFM’s impact extends beyond Malaysia, with the organization actively promoting Silat on the global stage. Through partnerships and collaborations, PSGFM has introduced Silat to countries across Europe and North America, spreading awareness of Malay martial arts and culture. PSGFM’s participation in international events and conferences has garnered global recognition, showcasing the artistry and effectiveness of Silat to a diverse audience (Pewelec et al., 2015; Pawel et al., 2022). Locally, PSGFM serves as a pillar of the community, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect among practitioners. The organization’s inclusive approach welcomes individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, creating a supportive environment for personal growth and development. Through its community outreach programs, PSGFM aims to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Malay Silat, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations of practitioners (Ministry of Culture, Art and Tourism, 2002).
Conclusion
In conclusion, PSGFM stands as a testament to Silat’s enduring legacy as a holistic martial art form and a path of personal growth. Through its rich history, comprehensive curriculum, and global outreach efforts, PSGFM has played a pivotal role in promoting Silat both locally and internationally. As practitioners embark on their journey with PSGFM, they not only learn the art of self-defence but also cultivate discipline, resilience, and a deep appreciation for Malay heritage and culture. PSGFM’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement ensures that the legacy of Silat remains vibrant and relevant in the modern world. Whether exploring the fluid movements or the powerful strikes of Silat, PSGFM offers practitioners a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With dedication, perseverance, and an open mind, the path of PSGFM promises endless possibilities for personal growth, mastery, and fulfilment.
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