Pencak silat << pen CHACK`see` laht >> is a form of martial art in Indonesia . In 1973, representatives from different schools and styles of silat agreed to use pencak silat as the official name to distinguish the Indonesian style from hundreds of other silat styles in Southeast Asia , such as silat melayu in Malaysia and Thailand .
There is no overall standard for pencak silat. Each style has its own movement patterns, techniques, and tactics. But styles generally feature high kicks, jumps, and agile maneuvers, often launched from a low stance. Weapons are often part of the training in pencak silat. The most common weapon is a dagger called a kris. Other weapons are the parang (machete) and the tongkat (walking stick).
Pencak silat can be used for both self-defense and recreation. It has artful qualities and can be likened to a dance, with musical accompaniment provided by two sets of drums, a trumpet, and a gong. It is often performed at such special events as weddings, national holidays, and festivals.
Silat is an ancient form of martial arts, though its exact origins are unknown. Archaeological evidence suggests that martial arts systems were practiced by the A.D. 500’s in the area of Sumatra and the Malay Peninsula. Kingdoms used pencak silat to train their soldiers and warriors. For example, a kingdom in Sumatra from the 600’s to the 1300’s and a kingdom in Java from the 1200’s to the 1500’s used silat fighting skills to extend their rule across much of what are now Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore . Beginning in the 1900’s, silat has been practiced as a sport in national and regional competitions.
