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Educational Framework: Structuring the Wisdom of Silat
byAssoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Silat, the traditional martial art of the Malay world, has long been revered not only for its combative techniques but also for its philosophical depth and cultural significance. Historically taught orally…
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Silat as a National Identity: Malaysia’s Official Martial Art
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Silat is more than a martial art—it is Malaysia’s cultural signature. It embodies the values, history, and spirit of the nation. Recognized officially and practiced widely, Silat stands as a symbol…
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Silat and the Philosophy of Time: Lessons from Surah Al-Asr
“By time, indeed mankind is in loss…” — this profound verse from Surah Al-Asr (103) is more than a spiritual reflection; it is a guiding principle in the practice of Silat Melayu. Within the tradition of The Malaysian Organization of Authentic Malay Silat Arts (PASSMAL), this verse is recited at the beginning of every…
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Silat for Youth: Reviving Cultural Pride Through Martial Arts
byAssoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) In today’s fast-paced digital era, youth are increasingly distanced from their cultural roots. The allure of global entertainment, social media, and modern lifestyles often overshadows traditional values and heritage. Amidst this…
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A Night of Honour: Silat Melayu Shines at ACPES 2025 Gala Dinner
The ACPES 2025 Gala Dinner in Iligan City, Philippines, was more than a celebration of academic excellence—it was a cultural showcase that placed Silat Melayu at the heart of international admiration. Among the evening’s most memorable moments was the powerful performance of Silat by Malaysian delegates, led by Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie, which…
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Silat Across Borders: The Malay Martial Art in Southeast Asia
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Silat, the traditional martial art of the Malay world, is not confined to Malaysia alone. Its influence stretches across Southeast Asia—from Sumatra to Mindanao, Pattani to Brunei—where it has evolved through…
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Silat Pulut and Village Traditions: Where Culture Meets Combat
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Silat Pulut, a ceremonial form of Silat often performed during weddings and festivals, is a vibrant expression of Malay culture. Accompanied by traditional music and graceful movements, it showcases the aesthetic…
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From Hulubalang to Silat: Tracing the Warrior’s Path
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Before the term “Silat” became widespread, the Malay world revered its warriors as hulubalang—guardians of the realm, masters of ilmu penjurit and ilmu gagah berani. These warriors were not merely fighters;…
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The Spiritual Dimension of Silat: Rituals, Prayers, and Purpose
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Silat is more than a martial art—it is a sacred tradition deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Malay world. Within the teachings of PASSMAL (The Malaysian Organization…
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Silat as Education: Teaching Values Through Movement
byAssoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Silat is more than a martial art—it is a holistic educational system that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. In Malaysia, Silat has evolved into a structured pedagogy that integrates cultural…
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Silat in the 21st Century: Preserving Tradition in a Digital Age
byAssoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed ShapieLeader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation,Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) In the 21st century, the preservation of traditional knowledge faces unprecedented challenges. The rise of digital media, globalization, and shifting cultural priorities has placed many indigenous practices at risk of being…
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Silat and the Malay Identity: A Martial Art of Meaning
Silat is more than a martial art—it is a living embodiment of Malay identity. Rooted in centuries of tradition, Silat reflects the values of courage, humility, discipline, and community. It is practiced not for fame or competition alone, but for self-mastery, cultural preservation, and service to society. Silat is the soul of the Malay…
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5 Ways PASSMAL Preserves the Heritage of Silat Melayu
🥋 Introduction: The Urgency of Preserving a Martial Legacy In an age of digital disruption and cultural dilution, the soul of Silat Melayu—Malaysia’s indigenous martial art—faces a challenge. More than just a combat system, Silat Melayu carries centuries of Malay warrior philosophy, ritual, and identity. Yet without structured preservation, this heritage risks being oversimplified…
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Dr. Nizam’s Silat Leadership Inspires Cultural Identity and National Pride
SHAH ALAM, 3 April 2025 – In conjunction with PASSMAL’s nationwide Silat outreach month, Dr. Mohamad Nizam Shapie, General Manager of PASSMAL and President of the World Silat Federation (WSF), delivered a keynote address on the importance of leadership and cultural identity in Silat development. The event, held at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), highlighted…
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PASSMAL Reinforces Its Role as Guardian of Authentic Malay Silat
SHAH ALAM, 15 February 2025 – The Malaysian Organization of Authentic Malay Silat Arts (PASSMAL) reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the purity and heritage of Silat Melayu, positioning itself as the national guardian of traditional Malay martial arts. In a statement released by Dr. Mohamad Nizam Shapie, General Manager of PASSMAL and President of…