Hundreds Of Silat Exponents To Gather In Labuan For Inaugural International Tournament

LABUAN, July 30 (Bernama) -- Nearly 700 silat exponents across Borneo Island will converge on this duty-free island for the inaugural International Silat Sports and Arts Tournament and Borneo Invitation from Aug 3-5. 

Pesaka Labuan chairman Mohd Khairul Abdul Ghani said the tournament will showcase participants' rich cultural heritage and martial arts skills from various regions, making it a landmark event in the martial arts calendar.

It is organised by the National Silat Federation Malaysia (Pesaka) Labuan chapter in collaboration with silat associations from Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.

Mohd Khairul said the Prime Minister’s political secretary, Datuk Azman Abidin, will open the tournament, to be held at the Perbadanan Labuan Multipurpose Hall.

“As this is the inaugural tournament, our focus this time is on those in the Borneo region. 

“We have received an overwhelming response, with 670 confirmed participants. We will extend our invitation to silat associations in the Peninsula next year," he told Bernama today.

He said the event aims to foster a deeper understanding of silat as a martial art and cultural expression, encouraging greater community participation. 

“The tournament will feature various categories, allowing practitioners of all ages and skill levels to participate and showcase their talents.

“Labuan anticipates an influx of visitors eager to experience the excitement and camaraderie that the International Silat Sports and Arts Tournament and Borneo Invitation promises to deliver,” he said. 

-- BERNAMA