Unesco status alone won’t save silat if youth turn away, says Perak MB

Perak Education, Higher Education, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah (3rd right) presents a commemorative plaque to a silat instructor at the 2026 Gema Warisan Rakan Muda X Himpunan Mahabbah Pendekar Negeri Perak programme in Ipoh October 18, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Sunday, 18 Oct 2026 3:29 PM MYT

IPOH, Oct 18 — The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) recognition of silat as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity does not guarantee its survival if younger generations increasingly distance themselves from training, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said.

He said veteran silat instructors and grandmasters must pass their knowledge to the next generation to keep the martial art alive and ensure it continues to be practised.

“We may have a proud silat heritage, but if young people turn away from the training arena, fewer will truly master and appreciate the art,” he said.

State Education, Higher Education, Youth and Sports Committee chairman Datuk Khairudin Abu Hanipah read out Saarani’s speech on his behalf at the opening of the 2026 Gema Warisan Rakan Muda X Himpunan Mahabbah Pendekar today.

Saarani said Malaysia has more than 150 identified silat styles, with the martial art declared a National Heritage in 2009 before gaining Unesco recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2019.

“Through regular training, they (youth) can develop discipline, self-confidence, mental resilience and respect for others. These qualities align with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda to develop quality human capital and youth,” he said.

He also cautioned against letting differences in silat styles, teaching traditions, and training methods cause divisions, saying they should instead be embraced with mutual respect and a spirit of brotherhood.

“Relations between silat schools must continue to be nurtured to ensure the martial art remains a unifying force in society while connecting younger generations with the nation’s history and culture,” he said.

Saarani also expressed hope that the gathering will spur efforts to revive silat training centres, mentor young practitioners and strengthen ties between silat schools to preserve the martial art for future generations. — Bernama