Silat in the Malay language refers to martial arts, similar to how Wushu means martial techniques in Chinese. Traditionally, Malays would refer to Karate or Judo as Silat Jepun (Japanese martial arts) and kung fu as Silat Cina (Chinese martial arts). Indonesians call it Pencak Silat, while Malaysians term it as Silat, both of which are recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Silat encompasses native martial arts practiced across the Nusantara region, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, Southern Thailand, and the Philippines.
Silat Pulut: An Essential Malay Martial Art and Performance
by
Muhammad Amirul Naim Rosmi