AIRBORNE UiTM: Martial Arts and Combat Sports Research Network
Introduction
AIRBORNE is a strategic research and development initiative established by the Faculty of Sports Science and Recreation (FSR) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam. It stands for the Martial Arts and Combat Sports Research Network, and serves as a multidisciplinary platform to advance the academic, scientific, and community-based development of martial arts and combat sports in Malaysia and beyond.
Founded by Associate Professor Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie, AIRBORNE integrates research, education, innovation, and community engagement to elevate the status of Silat and other combat sports through structured programs, strategic partnerships, and impactful outreach.
Vision and Mission
Vision:
To position AIRBORNE as Malaysia’s leading academic and innovation hub for martial arts and combat sports, contributing to national transformation and global recognition.
Mission:
- To conduct high-impact research in martial arts science, pedagogy, and performance.
- To develop inclusive programs for youth, educators, and communities.
- To foster strategic collaborations with schools, institutions, and international bodies.
- To promote cultural heritage through modern sports frameworks.
Strategic Collaborations
One of AIRBORNE’s key milestones was the Letter of Intent (LOI) signing ceremony between UiTM Shah Alam and Sekolah Kebangsaan Seksyen 9 (SKS9), held at the FSR Main Meeting Room. This partnership aims to:
- Empower students, teachers, and the local community through martial arts education.
- Conduct regular impactful programs aligned with Transformasi Sekolah 2025 (TS25).
- Share UiTM’s expertise in sports science and Silat pedagogy with primary education stakeholders.
The collaboration was formalized by AP Dr. Raja Mohamed Firhad Raja Azidin (UiTM FSR) and Puan Anis Iberahim (SKS9 Headmistress), marking a new chapter in community-based martial arts development.
Core Focus Areas
AIRBORNE operates across several key domains:
1. Research and Innovation
- Sports science applications in Silat and combat sports.
- Development of training models, performance analytics, and injury prevention.
- Integration with UiTM’s postgraduate research ecosystem.
2. Education and Curriculum Development
- Supporting Silat curriculum in schools and higher education.
- Training modules for coaches, educators, and youth leaders.
- Collaboration with PASSMAL and World Silat Federation for certification pathways.
3. Community Engagement
- Outreach programs for schools, NGOs, and local communities.
- Anti-bullying campaigns, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.
- Events such as Silat Tempur and Silat EVO to promote participation.
4. Internationalization
- Building global networks with martial arts institutions.
- Representing Malaysia in international conferences and competitions.
- Promoting Silat as a global sport and cultural heritage.
Leadership and Expertise
AIRBORNE is led by a team of experienced academics and practitioners:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie – Founder and Director, expert in Silat sports science and global Silat diplomacy.
- Supported by UiTM’s FSR faculty members and postgraduate researchers.
Future Directions
AIRBORNE is aligned with UiTM’s Transformasi 25 (TS25) and national goals for cultural and educational innovation. Upcoming initiatives include:
- Expansion of school partnerships across Malaysia.
- Launch of AIRBORNE Academy for youth and educators.
- Integration with digital platforms such as Silat for Beginners and Silat EVO.
- Hosting international martial arts research symposiums and competitions.
Conclusion
AIRBORNE UiTM is a visionary initiative that bridges tradition and innovation in martial arts. By combining academic rigor with community impact, it sets a new benchmark for how Silat and combat sports can be developed, taught, and celebrated in Malaysia and globally.
Through strategic partnerships, research excellence, and inclusive programming, AIRBORNE is shaping the future of martial arts education and contributing to the global recognition of Silat Melayu.