SILAT

Silat is initially a traditional Malay martial art and subsequent change into stage performance with its stylized dancing like movement. There are various different types of silat which serves different function for example Pencak silat is the formal martial art of self-defence whereas Seni silat is the aesthetic martial art and is commonly played in certain occasion such as wedding and is called silat pulut. Silat is also considered a performing art as it is accompanied by drums and gongs and performed during weddings and other significant occasions.

The performance of silat compromises of beautiful, aesthetic movements, clad in warrior attire, accompanied by energetic silat music that fulfils the requirement of formal functions such as for receptions, circumcisions, ceremonies and the glutinous eating feasts and every silat performer will be rewarded with a gift of glutinous rice in the form of bunga telur. Therefore such silat performances are also known as Silat Pulut, Gayung Pulut, Silat Tari, Silat Sembah, Silat Cantik, Silat Pengantin or Silat Bunga.

The fall of Srivijaya had brought opportunities to Majapahit during the 9th to 13th century. Hayam Wuruk and Pateh Gajah Mada have raised many gallant warriors, for example Taming Sari who was killed by Hang Tuah. The Malacca Empire (1200-1511) showcased warriors who were skillful in silat like Bendahara Tun Perak and Hang Tuah and his five friends were extremely loyal to the king and Malacca.

Ever since the Dutch and English conquered Indonesia and Malay Peninsula (1511-1957), silat and its warriors were cast away from the palace. Silat however, continued to play its part in villages, producing brave, defensive warriors, ready to fight the enemies. For example, during the 1800's there were warriors fighting against colonialists, including Mat Kilau, Dato' Bahaman, Dato' Sagor, Dol Sai, Dato' Sri Maharaja, Abdul Rahman Lumbung and others.

Warriors kept on emerging to form Selendang Merah (Red Shawl) team to fight against communists during the Parang Panjang War. Among these warriors are Kiai Salleh, Wak Joyo and Kiai Yasuk. The same goes during one of Malaysia's most unforgettable black history, 13th May 1969.