Ancient Indonesian martial art welcomed in Bulgaria

Pencak Silat, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, gaining popularity worldwide

SOFIA, Bulgaria (MNTV) — Pencak Silat, an ancient Indonesian martial art, is gaining popularity worldwide, and its recent introduction in Bulgaria is a testament to its growing global appeal.

Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage since December 2019, Pencak Silat is not only a self-defense art but also a significant part of Indonesian culture.

The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Bulgaria hosted a two-day workshop in Sofia, which was well-received by the local community. The event aimed to build a Pencak Silat community in Bulgaria and potentially establish an Indonesian Pencak Silat federation in Sofia.

The workshop, led by experienced instructors Alvin Guinanao and Ash Miah, covered the fundamental techniques and underlying philosophy of Pencak Silat. Participants, including seven women, were impressed by the martial art’s unique blend of physical and mental harmony.

Indonesia is aiming to get it included in the Olympics. 

This martial art has been practiced in Indonesia for centuries, with various styles and schools emerging across the country.

Some of the notable styles of Pencak Silat include:

– Minangkabau: Known for its low stances and reliance on kicks and leg tactics.

– Java: Characterized by its deep, wide stance and resulting gait, adapted from river-basin areas.

– Riau: Features wide stances with the front foot turned slightly inward, developed for fighting on muddy ground.

– Sunda: Identified by the prefix “ci,” these systems are easily recognizable by their deep, wide stance.