by
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamad Nizam Mohamed Shapie
Leader, Combat Sports & Martial Arts Research Network (AIRBORNE)
Faculty of Sports Science & Recreation, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
Name of Research:
Teaching Silat for Young Migrants in Malaysia
Citations:
Shapie, M. N. M. (2022). In UNESCO ICM – UiTM International Seminar 2022 on Youth Development through Martial Arts, pp. 95–108. Chungcheongbuk-do, Korea: International Centre of Martial Arts for Youth Development and Engagement under the auspices of UNESCO [ICM]. ISBN: 9791191300284
Purpose of the Study:
To explore the impact of teaching Silat to young migrants in Malaysia, focusing on their motivations, development, cultural integration, and personal growth through martial arts education.
Key Findings:
- Motivations for Participation:
- Family influence, fitness, social activity, achievement, energy release, friendship, and competitiveness were key motivators for migrant youth to join Silat training.
- Case Studies:
- Migrant youths from Australia and Syria successfully trained in Silat Tempur and Seni Silat Malaysia.
- Notable achievements include national championships, best fighter awards, and progression to black belt levels.
- Silat Tempur as a Developmental Tool:
- Silat Tempur provides a structured, safe, and progressive combat sport for children aged 7–13.
- It focuses on basic techniques like striking, kicking, evading, and blocking.
- Cultural Integration:
- Silat training helped migrants assimilate into Malaysian society through language, customs, and values.
- Participation in Silat fostered moral values, discipline, and self-confidence.
- Mental Health and Resilience:
- Silat’s physical and philosophical components support mental health, helping youth cope with stress, anxiety, and identity challenges.
- The philosophy of Sikap Pendekar (Warrior Attitude) instills resilience, humility, and justice.
Practical Implications for Silat:
- Silat can be a powerful tool for social inclusion, especially for migrant and refugee youth.
- The Seni Silat Malaysia curriculum offers a structured pathway for skill development and cultural education.
- Silat training promotes psychosocial well-being, making it suitable for youth development programmes.
- The integration of Silat into school co-curricular activities supports national unity and cultural appreciation.
Tips for Application:
Athletes (Migrant Youth):
- Engage in Silat to build self-confidence, discipline, and cultural understanding.
- Use Silat Tempur as a stepping stone to elite competition or personal development.
Parents:
- Consider Silat as a holistic activity for children that combines physical fitness, cultural education, and character building.
- Support participation in Silat workshops and competitions for exposure and growth.
Coaches:
- Create inclusive training environments for migrant youth.
- Use Silat to teach values of respect, resilience, and cultural pride.
- Collaborate with schools and community centres to expand access to Silat education.
